Topical Bible: Fatherless: Mephibosheth

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Topical Encyclopedia

Mephibosheth, a significant figure in the Old Testament, is a poignant example of the fatherless in biblical narrative. He was the son of Jonathan and the grandson of King Saul, Israel's first king. His account is primarily found in the books of 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles.

Background and Early Life

Mephibosheth's life took a dramatic turn at a young age. Following the death of his father Jonathan and grandfather Saul in battle against the Philistines at Mount Gilboa (1 Samuel 31:1-6), Mephibosheth became an orphan. In the chaos that ensued, his nurse fled with him to protect him from potential harm, as was customary for the descendants of a fallen king. Tragically, during their flight, Mephibosheth fell and became lame in both feet (2 Samuel 4:4).

Life in Lo-debar

After the fall of Saul's house, Mephibosheth lived in obscurity in Lo-debar, a place often associated with barrenness and desolation. His condition as a disabled and fatherless individual in ancient Israel would have placed him in a vulnerable position, reliant on the mercy and charity of others for survival.

David's Kindness

King David, who had a deep bond of friendship with Jonathan, sought to honor his covenant with Jonathan by showing kindness to his descendants. In 2 Samuel 9, David inquires, "Is there anyone still left of the house of Saul to whom I can show kindness for Jonathan’s sake?" (2 Samuel 9:1). Upon learning of Mephibosheth's existence, David summoned him to Jerusalem.

David's actions towards Mephibosheth are a profound demonstration of grace and mercy. Despite the potential threat that a surviving heir of Saul's line could pose to his throne, David restored to Mephibosheth all the land that had belonged to Saul and invited him to eat at the king's table regularly, treating him as one of his own sons (2 Samuel 9:7-11).

Mephibosheth's Humility and Loyalty

Mephibosheth's response to David's kindness was one of humility. He referred to himself as a "dead dog" (2 Samuel 9:8), a term indicating his awareness of his lowly status and unworthiness. His loyalty to David was later tested during Absalom's rebellion. Ziba, Mephibosheth's servant, deceived David by claiming that Mephibosheth sought to reclaim his grandfather's throne (2 Samuel 16:1-4). However, upon David's return to Jerusalem, Mephibosheth clarified his loyalty, explaining that he had been betrayed by Ziba and expressing his contentment with David's safe return (2 Samuel 19:24-30).

Legacy

Mephibosheth's account is a testament to the themes of covenant faithfulness, mercy, and the reversal of fortunes. As a fatherless individual, he experienced the vulnerability and marginalization common to orphans in ancient times. Yet, through David's kindness, he was elevated to a place of honor and security. His life serves as a reminder of the biblical call to care for the fatherless and the transformative power of grace.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Samuel 9:3
And the king said, Is there not yet any of the house of Saul, that I may show the kindness of God to him? And Ziba said to the king, Jonathan has yet a son, which is lame on his feet.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Of Preparation.
... Mephibosheth was not more lame to go, than my soul is to walk after ... secretly stolen,
or openly robbed anything, or hast detained from any fatherless child that ...
//christianbookshelf.org/bayly/the practice of piety/i of preparation.htm

The Work of Jesus Christ as an Advocate,
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the work of jesus christ.htm