2 Samuel 21:3

So David asked the Gibeonites, "What shall I do for you? How can I make amends so that you may bless the inheritance of the LORD?"

Study Bible

So David asked the Gibeonites,
David's inquiry to the Gibeonites reflects his role as a mediator and leader seeking to resolve a national crisis. The Gibeonites were a group of people who had made a covenant with Israel during the time of Joshua (Joshua 9:3-15). Despite their deceptive means to secure this covenant, it was binding, and Saul's violation of it by attempting to annihilate them brought a famine upon Israel. David's approach to the Gibeonites shows his commitment to justice and the importance of honoring covenants, even those made under false pretenses.

“What shall I do for you?
David's question indicates his willingness to make restitution and seek reconciliation. This reflects the biblical principle of making amends for wrongs committed, as seen in the laws of restitution in the Mosaic Law (Exodus 22:1-14). It also highlights the importance of seeking forgiveness and restoration in relationships, a theme prevalent throughout Scripture.

How can I make amends
The concept of making amends is deeply rooted in the biblical understanding of justice and righteousness. In the Old Testament, making amends often involved restitution or compensation for wrongs done, as seen in Leviticus 6:1-7. David's desire to make amends underscores the need for repentance and reconciliation, which are central themes in the Bible.

so that you may bless the inheritance of the LORD?”
The "inheritance of the LORD" refers to the people of Israel, whom God chose as His own possession (Deuteronomy 9:29). David's concern for the blessing of the inheritance highlights the communal aspect of sin and its consequences. The famine affecting Israel was a result of Saul's sin against the Gibeonites, showing how the actions of leaders can impact the entire community. David's desire for the Gibeonites' blessing reflects the biblical principle that reconciliation and peace are necessary for God's favor and blessing to be restored upon His people. This also points to the broader theme of God's covenant faithfulness and the need for His people to live in accordance with His commands to experience His blessings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel, seeking to make amends for Saul's actions against the Gibeonites.

2. Gibeonites
A non-Israelite group who had a treaty with Israel, violated by Saul, leading to a famine as divine retribution.

3. Saul
The former King of Israel, whose actions against the Gibeonites caused a breach of covenant and subsequent famine.

4. Inheritance of the LORD
Refers to the people of Israel, whom David desires to see blessed and free from the famine.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Keeping Covenants
David's actions highlight the importance of honoring agreements, even those made by previous generations. This teaches us the value of integrity and faithfulness in our commitments.

Seeking Reconciliation
David's approach to the Gibeonites demonstrates the importance of seeking reconciliation and making amends for past wrongs. As Christians, we are called to be peacemakers and to seek forgiveness and restoration in our relationships.

Atonement and Blessing
The concept of atonement is central to this passage, as David seeks to restore God's blessing on Israel. This points to the greater atonement made by Christ, which brings ultimate reconciliation and blessing.

Leadership and Responsibility
David's leadership is marked by his willingness to address past injustices and take responsibility for the nation's welfare. This serves as a model for Christian leaders to act justly and seek the good of those they lead.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's approach to the Gibeonites reflect the biblical principle of honoring covenants, and how can we apply this in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the need for atonement in 2 Samuel 21:3 point to the ultimate atonement provided by Jesus Christ?

3. How can we, like David, seek reconciliation and peace in our relationships, especially when past wrongs have been committed?

4. What lessons can we learn from David's leadership in addressing the consequences of Saul's actions, and how can these lessons be applied in our roles today?

5. How does the account of the Gibeonites and Israel challenge us to consider the impact of our actions on others and the importance of seeking God's guidance in making things right?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 9
The original treaty between Israel and the Gibeonites, which Saul violated, leading to the events in 2 Samuel 21.

Numbers 35:33
Discusses the defilement of the land through bloodshed and the need for atonement, relevant to the need for reconciliation in 2 Samuel 21.

Romans 12:18
Encourages living at peace with everyone, reflecting David's desire to restore peace with the Gibeonites.