2 Samuel 9:10

You and your sons and servants are to work the ground for him and bring in the harvest, so that your master's grandson may have food to eat. But Mephibosheth, your master's grandson, is always to eat at my table." Now Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants.

Study Bible

You and your sons and servants
This phrase indicates a delegation of responsibility. In the Hebrew context, the family unit, including servants, was often seen as a collective workforce. The word "servants" (Hebrew: עֲבָדִים, 'avadim) reflects a social structure where loyalty and duty were paramount. This delegation by King David to Ziba underscores the importance of community and family in fulfilling God’s covenant promises.

are to work the ground for him
The phrase "work the ground" (Hebrew: עֲבַדְתֶּם אֶת־הָאֲדָמָה, 'avadtem et-ha'adamah) is reminiscent of the Genesis mandate where Adam was tasked to tend the Garden of Eden. This labor is not merely physical but is a divine stewardship, reflecting God’s provision and care for His people. It signifies a return to the land, a theme prevalent in Israel’s history, symbolizing restoration and blessing.

and you are to bring in the harvest
Harvesting (Hebrew: וְהֵבֵאתָ, ve'hevetah) is a time of joy and fulfillment in the biblical narrative. It represents the fruition of hard work and God’s blessing. In the context of David’s kindness to Mephibosheth, it symbolizes the abundance and grace extended to him, despite his inability to work the land himself due to his disability.

so that your master’s grandson may have food to eat
This phrase highlights the provision and care for Mephibosheth, Jonathan’s son. The Hebrew word for "food" (לֶחֶם, lechem) is often used to denote sustenance and life. David’s provision for Mephibosheth is a reflection of God’s covenant faithfulness to Jonathan, showcasing the importance of loyalty and kindness in the Davidic kingdom.

But Mephibosheth, your master’s grandson, will always eat at my table
The phrase "eat at my table" (Hebrew: יֹאכַל לֶחֶם עַל־שֻׁלְחָנִי, yokhal lechem al-shulchani) signifies honor and inclusion. In ancient Near Eastern culture, eating at the king’s table was a privilege reserved for the king’s family and closest associates. David’s invitation to Mephibosheth is a powerful act of grace, symbolizing acceptance and restoration into the royal family, despite his physical limitations.

Now Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants
This detail about Ziba’s household (Hebrew: חֲמֵשָׁה עָשָׂר בָּנִים וְעֶשְׂרִים עֲבָדִים, chameshah asar banim ve'esrim avadim) underscores the resources available to fulfill David’s command. It highlights the abundance and capability within Ziba’s household to support Mephibosheth, ensuring that David’s kindness is effectively carried out. This reflects the biblical principle that God equips those He calls to serve others, providing the means necessary to fulfill His purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel who seeks to show kindness to the house of Saul for Jonathan's sake.

2. Mephibosheth
The son of Jonathan, grandson of Saul, who is shown kindness by David.

3. Ziba
A servant of Saul's household, tasked by David to manage the land for Mephibosheth.

4. Jonathan
The deceased son of Saul and father of Mephibosheth, who had a covenant of friendship with David.

5. Jerusalem
The city where David reigns and where Mephibosheth is brought to eat at the king's table.

Teaching Points

Grace and Kindness
David's actions towards Mephibosheth exemplify grace and kindness, reflecting God's grace towards us. We are called to show kindness to others, especially those who cannot repay us.

Faithfulness to Promises
David honors his covenant with Jonathan by caring for Mephibosheth. This teaches us the importance of keeping our promises and being faithful to our commitments.

Provision and Stewardship
Ziba is tasked with working the land for Mephibosheth, illustrating the importance of stewardship and providing for others. We are called to use our resources to bless those in need.

Inclusion and Honor
Mephibosheth, despite his disability, is given a place of honor at David's table. This challenges us to include and honor those who are marginalized or overlooked in society.

Legacy of Relationships
The relationship between David and Jonathan impacts the next generation. Our relationships and actions can leave a lasting legacy for others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's treatment of Mephibosheth reflect the character of God as seen in other parts of the Bible?

2. In what ways can we show kindness and grace to those who are marginalized or in need in our communities?

3. How can we ensure that we are faithful to our promises and commitments, as David was to Jonathan?

4. What resources or talents do we have that can be used to provide for and bless others, similar to Ziba's role?

5. How can we create a culture of inclusion and honor in our families, churches, and communities, reflecting David's treatment of Mephibosheth?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 20
This chapter details the covenant between David and Jonathan, which is the basis for David's kindness to Mephibosheth.

2 Samuel 4:4
Provides background on Mephibosheth's condition, being lame in both feet, which highlights the grace extended to him.

Luke 14:12-14
Jesus teaches about inviting the poor and disabled to your table, reflecting David's actions towards Mephibosheth.

Romans 5:8
Illustrates God's grace towards us while we were still sinners, similar to David's grace towards Mephibosheth.