2 Samuel 21:7

Now the king spared Mephibosheth son of Jonathan, the son of Saul, because of the oath before the LORD between David and Jonathan son of Saul.

Study Bible

Now the king spared Mephibosheth
This phrase highlights King David's decision to protect Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan. Mephibosheth was the grandson of Saul, Israel's first king, and the son of Jonathan, David's close friend. In the context of ancient Near Eastern customs, it was common for new kings to eliminate potential rivals from the previous dynasty. However, David's choice to spare Mephibosheth demonstrates his commitment to his covenant with Jonathan and his respect for God's anointed, Saul.

son of Jonathan, the son of Saul
This lineage emphasizes Mephibosheth's royal heritage. Jonathan, Saul's son, was a noble and loyal friend to David, despite his father's animosity towards David. The mention of Saul connects to the broader narrative of the transition from Saul's kingship to David's. It also underscores the potential threat Mephibosheth could have posed to David's rule, making David's act of sparing him even more significant.

because of the oath before the LORD
The oath refers to the covenant made between David and Jonathan, as recorded in 1 Samuel 20:14-17. This covenant was a solemn promise made in the presence of God, highlighting the seriousness and sacredness of their agreement. In ancient Israel, oaths made before the LORD were binding and carried significant weight, reflecting the deep spiritual and moral obligations involved.

between David and Jonathan
The relationship between David and Jonathan is one of the most profound friendships depicted in the Bible. Their bond was characterized by mutual respect, loyalty, and love, transcending political and familial tensions. This friendship is a model of covenantal faithfulness and is often seen as a type of Christ's relationship with believers, marked by sacrificial love and commitment.

son of Saul
This final mention of Saul serves as a reminder of the complex history between David and Saul's family. Despite Saul's pursuit and attempts to kill David, David consistently showed respect for Saul as the LORD's anointed. By honoring his covenant with Jonathan, David also demonstrates his integrity and faithfulness to God, choosing to act with mercy and grace rather than vengeance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel who honors his covenant with Jonathan by sparing Mephibosheth.

2. Mephibosheth
The son of Jonathan, spared by David due to the covenant between David and Jonathan.

3. Jonathan
The son of Saul and a close friend of David, with whom David made a covenant.

4. Saul
The former King of Israel and father of Jonathan, whose actions led to the famine in Israel.

5. The Oath of the LORD
A covenant made between David and Jonathan, which David honors by sparing Mephibosheth.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Keeping Covenants
David's decision to spare Mephibosheth underscores the importance of honoring commitments, especially those made before God.

Faithfulness in Relationships
The relationship between David and Jonathan serves as a model for loyalty and faithfulness in friendships and family ties.

God's Sovereignty and Justice
The context of the famine and the resolution through the Gibeonites' request shows God's justice and the importance of addressing past wrongs.

Grace and Mercy
David's mercy towards Mephibosheth is a reflection of God's grace towards us, reminding us to extend grace to others.

Legacy of Faithfulness
The account encourages us to consider the legacy we leave through our commitments and relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's action in sparing Mephibosheth demonstrate the importance of keeping one's promises, and how can we apply this principle in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the covenant between David and Jonathan reflect the nature of our covenant relationship with God through Christ?

3. How can we show grace and mercy to others in our daily interactions, following David's example with Mephibosheth?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure that we honor our commitments, especially those made before God?

5. How does understanding the historical and cultural context of this passage enhance our appreciation of David's actions and God's justice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 18:3-4
This passage describes the covenant between David and Jonathan, highlighting the deep bond and commitment they shared.

1 Samuel 20:14-17
Jonathan asks David to show kindness to his family, which David promises to do, foreshadowing the events of 2 Samuel 21:7.

2 Samuel 9:1-13
David's earlier actions to show kindness to Mephibosheth, fulfilling his promise to Jonathan.

Psalm 15:4
This verse speaks to the importance of keeping one's oath, even when it is difficult, reflecting David's integrity.

Matthew 5:37
Jesus teaches about the importance of keeping one's word, which aligns with David's actions in honoring his covenant with Jonathan.