2 Samuel 9:2

And there was a servant of Saul's family named Ziba. They summoned him to David, and the king inquired, "Are you Ziba?" "I am your servant," he replied.

Study Bible

And there was a servant of the house of Saul named Ziba.
Ziba was a servant in the household of Saul, Israel's first king. After Saul's death, his household would have been in a precarious position, as the transition of power to David, who was from a different tribe, could have led to the elimination of Saul's family and associates. Ziba's role as a servant indicates he was likely responsible for managing the affairs of Saul's estate. This context highlights the political and social dynamics of the time, where loyalty to a former king could be dangerous. The mention of Ziba by name suggests his importance in the narrative, as he becomes a key figure in the story of Mephibosheth, Saul's grandson.

They summoned him to David,
David's summoning of Ziba indicates his intention to show kindness to the house of Saul, fulfilling his covenant with Jonathan, Saul's son, as seen in 1 Samuel 20:14-17. This act of summoning also reflects the authority David held as king, able to call individuals to his presence. It demonstrates David's desire to maintain justice and mercy, key themes in his reign. The summoning of Ziba sets the stage for the unfolding of David's grace towards Mephibosheth, which is a reflection of God's grace towards humanity.

and the king inquired, “Are you Ziba?”
David's inquiry shows his personal involvement and attention to detail in matters of state and personal promises. It reflects the importance of identity and recognition in the ancient Near Eastern culture, where knowing someone's name and status was crucial for social and political interactions. This question also serves to confirm Ziba's identity, ensuring that David is speaking to the correct person who can provide information about Saul's descendants.

“I am your servant,” he replied.
Ziba's response indicates his acknowledgment of David's authority and his willingness to serve the new king. This phrase reflects the cultural norms of the time, where servants were expected to show loyalty and submission to their masters. Ziba's declaration of servitude is significant, as it sets the tone for his future actions and interactions with David and Mephibosheth. It also highlights the theme of servanthood, which is prevalent throughout the Bible and is exemplified in the life of Jesus Christ, who came to serve and not to be served (Mark 10:45).

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel, known for his heart after God and his covenant with Jonathan, Saul's son.

2. Ziba
A servant from the house of Saul, who plays a crucial role in connecting David to Mephibosheth.

3. House of Saul
The former royal family of Israel, now largely fallen from power after Saul's death.

4. Mephibosheth
Although not mentioned in this specific verse, he is the son of Jonathan and the grandson of Saul, whom David seeks to show kindness to for Jonathan's sake.

5. Jerusalem
The city where David reigns as king and where this event takes place.

Teaching Points

Covenant Faithfulness
David's inquiry about the house of Saul demonstrates his commitment to the covenant he made with Jonathan. As believers, we are called to honor our commitments and show loyalty, reflecting God's faithfulness.

Kindness to Others
David's actions towards Mephibosheth, through Ziba, exemplify kindness and mercy. We are encouraged to extend grace and kindness, even to those who may not expect it, as a reflection of Christ's love.

Servanthood
Ziba's response, "I am your servant," highlights the importance of a servant's heart. In our walk with Christ, we are called to serve others selflessly, following the example of Jesus.

God's Sovereignty
The unfolding events show God's hand in fulfilling His purposes. Trusting in God's sovereignty can bring peace and assurance in our lives, knowing He orchestrates events for His glory and our good.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's treatment of Ziba and the house of Saul reflect the biblical principle of loving your enemies? Consider how you can apply this principle in your own life.

2. In what ways does the covenant between David and Jonathan influence David's actions in this chapter? How can we apply the concept of covenant faithfulness in our relationships today?

3. Reflect on Ziba's response to David, "I am your servant." How does this attitude of servanthood align with Jesus' teachings in the New Testament?

4. How does the account of David, Ziba, and Mephibosheth illustrate the theme of God's sovereignty and providence? Can you identify a situation in your life where you have seen God's hand at work?

5. Consider the broader account of 2 Samuel 9. How does David's kindness to Mephibosheth serve as a foreshadowing of the grace offered through Jesus Christ? How can this understanding deepen your appreciation for the gospel?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

2 Samuel 4:4
Provides background on Mephibosheth, explaining his disability and his lineage.

Luke 6:35
Jesus teaches about loving your enemies and doing good, which parallels David's actions towards the house of Saul.