David extends mercy to the household of Saul through Saul’s grandson (and Jonathan’s son), Mephibosheth. Why does David do this and what does it mean to show mercy to the undeserving?
(2 Samuel 9)
Sermon Outline
“David asked, ‘Is there anyone still left of the house of Saul to whom I can show kindness for Jonathan’s sake?’” (2 Samuel 9:1)
Remembered Promises
- David seeks to be faithful to his friendship to Jonathan
- David seeks to show lovingkindness to Jonathan’s descendants
- David rises above the call to vengeance
Searching Pursuit
- David decides to search for an opportunity
- David pursues the opportunity to show lovingkindness
- David puts a plan into action related to Mephibosheth
Invited to the Table
- David welcomes Mephibosheth
- David provides for Mephibosheth
- David honors Mephibosheth
Invited to the Table and Inviting to the Table
- • Seeing the good news in Mephibosheth
- • Seeing ourselves as Mephibosheth: welcomed, provided for, honored in Christ
- • Seeing others as Mephibosheth: welcoming, providing, honoring in Christ
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- When have you experienced goodness or love in unexpected ways? What happened? What did that feel like?
- This week we continue our summer sermon series, “The Pursuit of God” by looking at David’s decision to extend mercy to his friend Jonathan’s son, Mephibosheth, in 2 Samuel 9. Begin your study in prayer, asking God to speak to you through the Scripture, and then read that passage aloud.
- Background: Behind this story is David’s covenantal friendship with Jonathan, the son of King Saul (1 Sam 18:1-4; 20:1-42), who died alongside his father in battle (1 Sam 31). Jonathan’s son, Mephibosheth, was unable to walk since childhood because of a fall (2 Sam 4:4).
- According to verse 1, what is David’s motivation in this situation?
- This theme returns two other times (verses 3 and 7). That word “kindness” is the Hebrew word chesed, which can also mean “steadfast love,” “mercy,” or “covenant faithfulness.” Why would David act this way in relation to the family of King Saul, who sought to destroy David?
- According to his servant, Ziba, Mephibosheth has taken refuge with those who are loyal to Saul (verses 2-5). What do you think Mephibosheth have thought was coming his way based on David’s trials at Saul’s hands?
- What stands out to you about David’s response to Mephibosheth in verse 7?
- While Saul’s former lands would be used to support Mephibosheth’s household, being invited to the king’s table was a very big deal. What might that invitation communicate not only to Mephibosheth but to all David’s court and people?
- In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). What might it look like in our real lives to be like David who invited Mephibosheth to his table?
- What is one thing you sense God speaking to you personally through this week’s study? In small groups, discuss this with together and then pray about what you shared. If you are on your own, write it down, pray about it, and consider sharing your thoughts with someone this week.
DIG DEEPER
- Memorize 2 Samuel 9:1 or Matthew 5:44.
- This week, engage with the story of 2 Samuel 9 by evaluating your time and your table. Consider these two questions: 1) what does how you spend your time say about who or what is important? and 2) what does who is invited to your table say about who is important to you?
- Explore some or all of these resources:
- Andrei Rublev, “Trinity Icon”
- Christine D. Pohl, Making Room: Recovering Hospitality as a Christian Tradition