What is the meaning of 2 Samuel 19:27? and he has slandered your servant to my lord the king • The speaker is Mephibosheth, Jonathan’s son, explaining why he did not accompany David during Absalom’s revolt (2 Samuel 19:24–26). • He exposes Ziba’s false report (2 Samuel 16:3) and names it for what it is—“slander,” a direct violation of God’s command against bearing false witness (Exodus 20:16; Psalm 101:5). • Scripture treats character assassination as serious sin, for “the words of a gossip are like choice morsels” that wound deeply (Proverbs 18:8). • Mephibosheth appeals to David’s sense of justice, trusting the king will weigh truth fairly, just as Deuteronomy requires fair judgment (Deuteronomy 16:18–20). Yet my lord the king is like the angel of God • This phrase credits David with heavenly discernment, a title earlier used of him by both Achish and the wise woman of Tekoa (1 Samuel 29:9; 2 Samuel 14:17, 20). • Angels are God’s messengers who see beyond appearances (2 Kings 6:16–17). Mephibosheth therefore expresses confidence that David can pierce through deception and render righteous judgment (Proverbs 20:8). • The compliment also honors the throne God established: David, though flawed, serves as God’s representative (2 Samuel 7:16; Romans 13:1). so do what is good in your eyes • Having stated the facts, Mephibosheth submits to David’s decision, mirroring other faithful servants who entrusted themselves to human authority while resting in God’s sovereignty (1 Samuel 3:18; 2 Samuel 15:26; 1 Peter 2:18–19). • His posture reflects humility: he seeks no entitlement but relies on grace, echoing his earlier gratitude—“What is your servant, that you should notice a dead dog like me?” (2 Samuel 9:8). • The line underscores personal accountability: once truth is presented, leaders must choose what is “good,” a reminder of Joshua 24:15, “choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve.” summary Mephibosheth exposes Ziba’s lie, affirms David’s God-given discernment, and submits to whatever outcome David deems right. The verse models confronting falsehood without bitterness, honoring God-ordained authority, and resting in the righteous character of the ultimate Judge. |
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