MEPHIBOSHETH

II Samuel 9th chapter

Two Kings in contrast in Old Testament were those who very often we speak of. One was King Saul and another King David. King Saul was rejected by God, while King David was accepted by God. King Saul sought after the life of David. Saul’s daughter was David’s wife, yet Saul was after the life of David. Jonathan was the son of Saul. Jonathan was not only a close relative of David, but was his good friend. Jonathan’s son was Mephibosheth.

Mephibosheth was very unfortunate in his life, because when he was just a child of five years, his nurse dropped him off her hands, and he became crippled and lame in his both legs.

Jonathan requested David, to have mercy on his family. David was extremely kind to Saul’s family even though Saul’s sought after his soul very often.

David asked Mephibosheth if there was anyone left in the family of Saul, that he could show mercy. Mephibosheth compared himself to a dead dog and inquired David, why he wanted to show kindness. The word, “Dog” is a repulsive and most detested one used in the Bible. Mephibosheth compared himself as not only a dog but dead one.

We see David’s kindness was so great that he not only gave Mephibosheth, his inheritance, but also granted him the privilege to dine with him, on his table, along with him, throughout his life.

In Ephesians 2:1-3 we read, “…were dead in trespasses and sins…”

In Ephesians 2:4-5 we read, “But God, who is rich in mercy, because of his great love with which He loved us, even though we were dead in trespasses…”

But we have become “…joint heirs with Christ…” (Romans 8:17)

In Jesus Christ we see a greater love than this. He offered his own life for our sake and granted us salvation free of cost. He says, “Behold I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.” (Revelation 3:20). Lord Jesus Christ also said, “I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats this bread, he will live for ever; and the bread that I shall give is My flesh, which I gave for the life of the world.” (John 6:51)

Mephibosheth received inheritance and a place at the king David’s table. Jesus calls us to receive our inheritance and have eternal life. Is there still anyone, who reads this message in need of the favor of Jesus Christ? Salvation is free of cost. Jesus paid the price for our sins. We only need to ask him forgiveness and accept Him as personal savior.

God bless you,

LESLIE M. JOHN   leslie@lesliejohn.net