2 Samuel 9: Group Study Handout

Overview

David inquires if any member of Saul's house remains so he can show kindness (vv. 1-2). Ziba, a servant, tells him that Jonathan has a son named Mephibosheth, who is lame (vv. 3-5). David summons Mephibosheth, who falls before him and shows respect (vv. 6-8). David reassures him, saying he will restore all of Saul's land to him and that he will eat at David's table continually (vv. 7-10). Ziba is commanded to care for the land and provide for Mephibosheth, who will have the status of a king's son (vv. 9-11). Ziba agrees to the king's orders, and Mephibosheth eats at David's table (vv. 11-12). Mephibosheth, who has a young son named Mica, now lives in Jerusalem (vv. 12-13).

Key verse

“David said to him, “Don’t be afraid; for I will surely show you kindness for Jonathan your father’s sake, and will restore to you all the land of Saul your father. You will eat bread at my table continually.”

2 Samuel 9:7 (WEB)

Outline

1. 2 Samuel 9:1–2 David Seeks to Show Kindness
2. 2 Samuel 9:3–5 Ziba Provides Information
3. 2 Samuel 9:6–8 Mephibosheth's Arrival and Fear
4. 2 Samuel 9:9–10 David Restores Land and Servants
5. 2 Samuel 9:11–12 Ziba's Commitment and Mephibosheth's Status
6. 2 Samuel 9:13 Mephibosheth's New Life

Discussion questions

1. In v1, what specific act of kindness does David seek to show?
2. In v8, what does Mephibosheth call himself when speaking to David?
3. David's statement in v7 about showing kindness for Jonathan's sake: what does this imply about their covenant?
4. In vv. 9-10, why does David assign Ziba the responsibility of serving Mephibosheth?
5. When has a moment of grace changed your feelings of inadequacy, like Mephibosheth in v7?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Samuel 9: 2 Samuel 19, 2 Samuel 16, 1 Samuel 20.

Before next time: read 2 Samuel 10.