2 Samuel 21:1

During the reign of David there was a famine for three successive years, and David sought the face of the LORD. And the LORD said, "It is because of the blood shed by Saul and his family, because he killed the Gibeonites."

Study Bible

During the reign of David
This period marks the consolidation of Israel's tribes under a unified monarchy. David's reign is characterized by military conquests, the establishment of Jerusalem as the capital, and the centralization of worship. His leadership is seen as a high point in Israel's history, setting the stage for the future temple built by his son Solomon.

there was a famine for three successive years
Famine in the ancient Near East often indicated divine displeasure or judgment. In the biblical context, famines were sometimes used by God to draw attention to sin or to prompt repentance. The three-year duration emphasizes the severity and persistence of the issue, suggesting a need for divine intervention.

and David sought the face of the LORD
Seeking the face of the LORD implies a desire for guidance and understanding from God. This phrase indicates David's reliance on God for leadership and decision-making. It reflects the biblical principle of seeking divine wisdom in times of crisis, as seen in other scriptures like 1 Chronicles 16:11 and Psalm 27:8.

And the LORD said, “It is because of the blood shed by Saul and his family,
This revelation highlights the concept of corporate responsibility and the consequences of sin affecting future generations. Saul's actions against the Gibeonites violated a covenant made during Joshua's time (Joshua 9), demonstrating the importance of faithfulness to oaths and agreements. The shedding of innocent blood is a serious offense in biblical law, often requiring atonement.

because he killed the Gibeonites.”
The Gibeonites were a group of people who had made a treaty with Israel during Joshua's leadership. Saul's attempt to annihilate them was a breach of this covenant, illustrating the theme of justice and retribution. This incident underscores the biblical principle that God honors covenants and expects His people to do the same. The narrative also foreshadows the need for reconciliation and restitution, themes central to the gospel message and the work of Christ as the ultimate reconciler.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel who seeks God's guidance during a national crisis.

2. The LORD
God, who reveals the cause of the famine to David.

3. Saul
The former King of Israel, whose actions against the Gibeonites have brought about the famine.

4. The Gibeonites
A group of people who were wronged by Saul, leading to the famine as divine retribution.

5. Famine
A severe shortage of food lasting three years, prompting David to seek divine insight.

Teaching Points

Seeking God's Guidance
David's response to the famine is to seek the Lord's face, demonstrating the importance of turning to God in times of crisis.

Consequences of Sin
Saul's actions against the Gibeonites have long-lasting effects, illustrating how sin can have repercussions beyond the immediate moment.

Covenant Faithfulness
The violation of the covenant with the Gibeonites highlights the importance of honoring commitments and the serious nature of breaking them.

Divine Justice
God's response to the injustice against the Gibeonites shows His commitment to justice and righteousness.

Intercession and Repentance
David's role in seeking resolution for the famine underscores the importance of intercession and seeking reconciliation with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's approach to the famine in 2 Samuel 21:1 serve as a model for seeking God's guidance in our own lives?

2. What can we learn from the consequences of Saul's actions regarding the importance of honoring our commitments and covenants?

3. In what ways does this passage illustrate the concept of divine justice, and how can we apply this understanding to our view of God's character?

4. How does the account of the Gibeonites in Joshua 9 provide context for the events in 2 Samuel 21:1, and what does it teach us about the importance of faithfulness?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a difficult situation. How did seeking God's guidance help you, and what steps can you take to ensure you seek His face in future challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 9
The Gibeonites' original covenant with Israel, which Saul violated, leading to the famine.

1 Samuel 15
Saul's disobedience to God, which sets a pattern of behavior that affects his legacy.

2 Samuel 24
Another instance where David seeks God's guidance during a national crisis, showing a pattern of reliance on divine wisdom.

Exodus 34:7
The concept of generational consequences for sin, relevant to the repercussions of Saul's actions.

Psalm 105:4
Encouragement to seek the Lord's face continually, as David does in this passage.