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 are to work the ground for him
This directive is given by King David to Ziba, a servant of Saul's household. The command reflects the agrarian society of ancient Israel, where land and its produce were central to sustenance and wealth. The phrase underscores the importance of land inheritance and stewardship in Israelite culture, as well as the responsibility of servants and family members to support the household. This act of working the land for Mephibosheth, the grandson of Saul, is a demonstration of David's loyalty to his covenant with Jonathan, Saul's son, and reflects the biblical principle of honoring commitments and showing kindness to the house of one's friend.

and bring in the harvest,
Harvest time was a significant period in ancient Israel, marking the culmination of a season's labor and God's provision. The act of bringing in the harvest symbolizes the fulfillment of God's promise of provision and abundance. In a broader biblical context, harvest is often used metaphorically to describe the gathering of God's people or the final judgment (e.g., Matthew 9:37-38, Revelation 14:15). Here, it signifies the practical care and sustenance provided to Mephibosheth, ensuring his well-being and security.

so that your master’s grandson may have food to eat.
This phrase highlights the provision for Mephibosheth, ensuring his physical needs are met. It reflects the biblical theme of God's care for the vulnerable and marginalized, as Mephibosheth was disabled and unable to provide for himself (2 Samuel 4:4). The provision of food is a basic necessity, and David's command ensures that Mephibosheth is not only remembered but actively cared for, illustrating the biblical call to care for those in need (James 1:27).

But Mephibosheth, your master’s grandson, is always to eat at my table.”
David's invitation for Mephibosheth to eat at his table is a profound act of grace and inclusion. In ancient Near Eastern culture, sharing a meal was a sign of fellowship and acceptance. By granting Mephibosheth a permanent place at the royal table, David elevates his status and restores his dignity. This act prefigures the grace of Christ, who invites the spiritually poor and broken to His table (Luke 14:13-14). It also fulfills David's covenant with Jonathan to show kindness to his family (1 Samuel 20:14-17).

Now Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants.
This detail about Ziba's household indicates his capacity to fulfill David's command. The mention of his sons and servants suggests a well-established and resourceful household, capable of managing the agricultural responsibilities assigned by David. It also reflects the social structure of the time, where large families and servant networks were common in managing estates. This structure allowed for the efficient operation of land and resources, ensuring that Mephibosheth's needs would be met without burdening David's own resources.

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.