DAVID'S KINDNESS TO MEPHIBOSHETH

By David J. Riggs

Intro.
   A. Read: 2 Sam. 9:1-13
   B. David wanted to show kindness to Jonathan's descendants
      because of the covenant he had made with Jonathan when he
      was forced to flee from Saul.  1 Sam. 20:14-17
      1. They had such great love for each other that they
         promised they would always be kind to one another's
         descendants.
   C. As we study this narrative, let us make application to the
      grace of God.

I. Mephibosheth was in bad condition.
   A. He was lame in both feet.  2 Sam. 9:3; 2 Sam. 4:4
      1. He had no house of his own.  2 Sam. 9:4
   B. Compare this to one who is in sin.  He is in a bad condition
      before God.

II. David showed kindness for Jonathan's sake.  2 Sam. 9:1,7
   A. Thus, Mephibosheth was blessed on the basis and merits of
      another.
   B. Forgiveness of sins is given on the basis and merits of Jesus
      Christ.

III. Mephibosheth came to David in great humility.  2 Sam. 9:6
   A. It was the custom of monarchs to destroy all the family who
      might be usurpers of the throne.
   B. Neither Mephibosheth's coming nor his humility made David
      his debtor.
      1. Neither is God indebted to us.  However, we must come
         to God in humble obedience.

IV. Mephibosheth showed his appreciation for what David did for him. 
    2 Sam. 9:6
   A. He later showed his love for David.  2 Sam. 19:24-30
   B. We show our appreciation for what God has done for us by
      rendering a faithful service to Him.

V. Mephibosheth continued to enjoy the bounty of the king.  2 Sam.   
   9:13
   A. We continue to enjoy the spiritual blessings which come
      through Christ.  Eph. 1:3

Concl.
   A. Thus, from the story of David's kindness to Mephibosheth,
      the grace of God is well illustrated.
   B. God has been kind and merciful to us.  Let us bear fruit to
      holiness.  Rom. 6:22