2 Samuel 9:3

So the king asked, "Is there anyone left of Saul's family to whom I can show the kindness of God?" Ziba answered, "There is still Jonathan's son, who is lame in both feet."

Study Bible

So the king asked,
This phrase refers to King David, who is now firmly established as the ruler of Israel. His inquiry reflects his desire to fulfill a covenant promise he made to Jonathan, Saul's son, as seen in 1 Samuel 20:14-17. David's kingship is characterized by justice and kindness, aligning with the biblical ideal of a godly ruler.

“Is there anyone left of the house of Saul
The house of Saul refers to the family and descendants of Saul, the first king of Israel. After Saul's death, his house was largely decimated due to the conflict between Saul and David. This inquiry shows David's willingness to extend grace and mercy, contrasting with the common practice of eliminating rival dynasties to secure one's throne.

to whom I can show the kindness of God?”
The "kindness of God" refers to the Hebrew word "chesed," which denotes steadfast love, mercy, and covenant faithfulness. David's desire to show this kindness reflects God's own character and foreshadows the New Testament teaching of grace. This act of kindness is a type of Christ's redemptive work, where grace is extended to those who are undeserving.

Ziba answered,
Ziba is a servant from Saul's household. His role here is significant as he becomes the intermediary who connects David with the remaining member of Saul's family. Ziba's knowledge of Jonathan's son indicates his continued service and loyalty to Saul's house.

“There is still Jonathan’s son,
Jonathan was Saul's son and David's close friend. The mention of Jonathan's son highlights the enduring bond between David and Jonathan, despite the enmity between David and Saul. This connection underscores the theme of covenant loyalty and friendship.

who is lame in both feet.”
This detail about Jonathan's son, Mephibosheth, is significant. His lameness is a result of an accident when he was five years old, as described in 2 Samuel 4:4. In the ancient Near Eastern context, physical disabilities often led to marginalization. David's willingness to honor and care for Mephibosheth despite his disability reflects God's inclusive love and foreshadows the gospel's message of grace to all, regardless of status or condition.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King David
The second king of Israel, known for his heart after God and his desire to show kindness to the house of Saul, despite Saul's previous attempts to kill him.

2. Ziba
A servant of Saul's household who informs David about the existence of Jonathan's son, Mephibosheth.

3. Jonathan
The son of King Saul and a close friend of David, who had made a covenant with David to show kindness to each other's families.

4. Mephibosheth
The son of Jonathan, described as "lame in both feet," representing vulnerability and need.

5. House of Saul
The former royal family of Israel, now largely fallen from power, with remaining members living in obscurity or fear.

Teaching Points

Covenant Faithfulness
David's inquiry about Saul's descendants demonstrates his commitment to the covenant he made with Jonathan. This teaches us the importance of honoring our promises and commitments, even when it is not convenient.

God’s Kindness
David's desire to show "God’s kindness" reflects the biblical principle of hesed, or steadfast love. As believers, we are called to reflect God's kindness in our interactions with others, especially those who may not expect it.

Compassion for the Vulnerable
Mephibosheth's physical condition highlights the need for compassion towards those who are vulnerable or marginalized. We are reminded to extend grace and support to those in need.

Reconciliation and Forgiveness
David's actions towards the house of Saul illustrate the power of reconciliation and forgiveness. Despite Saul's enmity, David chooses to act with grace, setting an example for us to follow in our relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's inquiry about Saul's descendants demonstrate his understanding of covenant loyalty, and how can we apply this principle in our own relationships?

2. In what ways does David's desire to show "God’s kindness" challenge us to reflect God's character in our daily interactions?

3. Considering Mephibosheth's condition, how can we as a church community better support and include those who are vulnerable or marginalized?

4. How does David's treatment of Saul's family illustrate the biblical concept of forgiveness, and what steps can we take to practice forgiveness in our own lives?

5. Reflect on a time when you were shown unexpected kindness. How did it impact you, and how can you pass on that kindness to others in your community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 20
This chapter details the covenant between David and Jonathan, where they promise to show kindness to each other's descendants.

2 Samuel 4:4
Provides background on Mephibosheth's condition, explaining how he became lame as a child.

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