2 Samuel 9:4

"Where is he?" replied the king. And Ziba said, "Indeed, he is in Lo-debar at the house of Machir son of Ammiel."

Study Bible

Where is he?
This phrase reflects King David's earnest desire to show kindness to the house of Saul for Jonathan's sake. The Hebrew root for "where" (אֵיפֹה, 'eiphah) indicates a search or inquiry, suggesting David's proactive approach in seeking out Mephibosheth. This reflects the heart of God, who seeks out the lost and desires to extend grace and mercy.

the king replied
David, as king, represents authority and power. His willingness to inquire about Mephibosheth, a potential rival from the house of Saul, demonstrates humility and a commitment to covenant loyalty. This mirrors the divine kingship of God, who, despite His sovereignty, reaches out to humanity with love and compassion.

And Ziba answered
Ziba, a servant of Saul's household, plays a crucial role as a messenger. His response to the king's inquiry shows the importance of servanthood and obedience. In a broader sense, it highlights how God uses individuals to fulfill His purposes and convey His messages of grace.

Indeed, he is in Lo-debar
Lo-debar, meaning "no pasture" or "no word," was a place of desolation and obscurity. Mephibosheth's residence there symbolizes his fallen state and separation from the royal court. This setting underscores the theme of redemption, as God often calls individuals from places of barrenness into His abundance and blessing.

at the house of Machir son of Ammiel
Machir, whose name means "sold" or "bartered," was a man of influence and provision. His willingness to shelter Mephibosheth reflects the biblical principle of hospitality and support for those in need. Ammiel, meaning "people of God," further emphasizes the divine orchestration in providing refuge and care for Mephibosheth. This illustrates how God places people in our lives to support and guide us according to His divine plan.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Ziba
A servant of Saul's household who informs David about the whereabouts of Mephibosheth.

3. Mephibosheth
The son of Jonathan, grandson of Saul, who is living in Lo-debar.

4. Lo-debar
A place of desolation and barrenness, symbolizing Mephibosheth's lowly state.

5. Machir son of Ammiel
The man who provides refuge to Mephibosheth in Lo-debar.

Teaching Points

Covenant Faithfulness
David's actions demonstrate the importance of honoring commitments and promises, reflecting God's faithfulness to His covenants.

Grace and Kindness
David's kindness to Mephibosheth, despite his lowly status, mirrors God's grace towards us, offering love and acceptance regardless of our condition.

Restoration and Redemption
Mephibosheth's move from Lo-debar to the king's table symbolizes the transformative power of God's redemption in our lives.

Hospitality and Inclusion
The account encourages believers to practice hospitality and include those who are marginalized or forgotten in society.

Trust in God's Provision
Just as Mephibosheth was provided for by David, we can trust in God's provision and care for our needs.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. In what ways can we show kindness and grace to those who are in "Lo-debar" in our own lives?

3. How does the covenant between David and Jonathan influence David's actions, and what does this teach us about the importance of keeping our promises?

4. What are some practical ways we can practice hospitality and inclusion in our communities, following David's example?

5. How can Mephibosheth's account encourage us to trust in God's provision and care, even when we feel forgotten or marginalized?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 4:4
Provides background on Mephibosheth, explaining his lameness due to an accident as a child.

1 Samuel 20:14-17
Highlights the covenant between David and Jonathan, which motivates David's kindness to Mephibosheth.

Psalm 23:5
Illustrates the theme of God preparing a table for us, akin to David's invitation to Mephibosheth.

Luke 14:13-14
Jesus' teaching on inviting the poor and disabled to a banquet, reflecting David's actions towards Mephibosheth.