What is the meaning of 2 Samuel 9:7? “Do not be afraid,” said David • Mephibosheth, crippled, orphaned, and summoned before the king, expects judgment or death (2 Samuel 9:6). • David’s first words echo the LORD’s frequent reassurance to His people—“Do not be afraid” (Joshua 1:9; Isaiah 41:10; Luke 2:10). • The king’s compassion reflects God’s heart toward sinners who tremble in His presence (Romans 8:15). • Fear is silenced by grace; perfect love drives out fear (1 John 4:18). for surely I will show you kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan • “Kindness” is covenant loyalty; David keeps the vow he made with Jonathan years earlier (1 Samuel 20:14-17, 42). • The promise is certain—“surely.” God’s covenants carry the same certainty (Hebrews 6:17-18). • Jonathan’s faithfulness secures blessing for his descendant; in similar fashion, believers are blessed for the sake of Christ, the greater Covenant-Keeper (Ephesians 1:7). • Kindness flows outward: from God to David, from David to Jonathan’s son, modeling 2 Corinthians 1:3-4. I will restore to you all the land of your grandfather Saul • Restoration is tangible, not symbolic. David returns estates, fields, and income that had passed into royal control (2 Samuel 9:9-10). • This act fulfills the Law’s concern for inheritance (Leviticus 25:25) and mirrors God’s promise to “restore the years the locust has eaten” (Joel 2:25). • Grace not only spares the guilty; it enriches the destitute (Psalm 23:5). • Mephibosheth gains what he never earned, picturing the believer’s unmerited inheritance in Christ (1 Peter 1:3-4). and you will always eat at my table • Permanent fellowship replaces distance; “always” speaks of ongoing acceptance (2 Samuel 9:11, 13). • Eating at the king’s table signifies adoption—Mephibosheth is treated “like one of the king’s sons” (v. 11). Compare with 2 Samuel 19:28 and Romans 8:15. • The table foreshadows the Lord’s Table and the Marriage Supper of the Lamb where redeemed sinners dine with the King forever (Matthew 26:29; Revelation 19:9). • Physical disability is no barrier; grace levels every distinction (Galatians 3:28). summary 2 Samuel 9:7 reveals grace in action: the king removes fear, upholds covenant, restores lost inheritance, and grants intimate fellowship. David’s kindness to Mephibosheth points to the far greater kindness God shows us in Christ—fear is banished, our inheritance is restored, and we are seated at the King’s table forever. |
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