Mephibosheth and Messiah



Much of Old Testament history is war and bloodshed. That is exactly what we would expect. With the Fall came jealousy, hatred and violence. "The whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now" (Rom.8:22). But that is not the whole story. Praise God for His grace that breaks in to this wretched sinful world. In 2 Samuel 9 we have a lovely story that points us to the Saviour who came "to seek and to save that which was lost" (Lk.19:10).

Mephibosheth's Poverty
Firstly, Mephibosheth belonged to a fallen family. His father and grandfather died under God's judgment on Mount Gilboa. God rejected Saul's kingship. David was the Lord's anointed. Like Mephibosheth we belong to a fallen family. Our father Adam at one time was king of this world but he was deposed because of his sin.
Secondly, Mephibosheth was lame on both his feet. He fell when he was five. We are like him spiritually in that we are unable to do anything to save ourselves. We cannot take one step towards God without His help.
Thirdly, there was nothing Mephibosheth could do for David. The king needed money, soldiers and builders. Poor Mephibosheth had nothing to offer and in that he is like you and me. We cannot pay King Jesus for His kindness.
Fourthly, notice that Mephibosheth regards himself as "a dead dog". There is some use in a living dog but no one values a dead dog. This was especially so in Israel where the dog was an unclean animal. He felt truly worthless and there is some hope for us if we have a similar opinion of ourselves.

Why the King Showed Him Kindness
David's kindness was freely and graciously bestowed. In our case, "God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" (Rom.5:8). "This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them" (Lk.15:2). Further, it was for Jonathan's sake. It is remarkable to read of the humility of Saul's firstborn. He accepted the will of God, recognised David as future king, lovingly entered into a covenant with him and even gave him his armour. Christ is our Jonathan. For His sake we enjoy the grace of God. We are unworthy but "worthy is the Lamb that was slain" (Rev.5:12). He gave us the robe of His righteousness.

The Kindness Shown
King David gave him the lands of his father and Messiah gives to us the earth as our inheritance. We are "heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ" (Rom.8:17). Further the king gave him a place at his table as one of the king's sons. The Lord does this for us too. Unworthy though we are we have a place at the Lord's table in heaven as one of His sons but also at his table on earth. We feel our sin and shame but as one of the old worthies put it, "David hid Mephibosheth's lame legs under the table".


Any comments or questions please E-Mail me or Rev William Macleod the editor.

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