Sovereign Grace.............

When I consider David’s actions toward Mephibosheth in Second Samuel, I see a study in sovereign grace theology.  We can perhaps use this to better understand God’s gracious hand in our lives.

(1)    David was looking to show mercy to Saul’s family for Jonathan’s sake and for no other reason except it pleased him to do so.  He chose Mephibosheth, and it should be noted that Saul had sons and other relatives who were still alive at this time. 2 Samuel 21:7  This is an example of particular or limited atonement.

(2)   David chose Mephibosheth when even Mephibosheth considered himself to be a “dead dog” of no value.  2 Samuel 9:8  Radical corruption or total depravity best describes this verse.

(3)   David chose Mephibosheth even though Mephibosheth could do nothing for David.  Mephibosheth was on the receiving end of all of David’s blessings. 2 Samuel 4:4  A very good example of sovereign election or unconditional election.

(4)   David sent for Mephibosheth “to bring him out”, not to ask him to come.  2 Samuel 9:5  Effectual grace or irresistible grace can be applied here.

(5)   Even though Mephibosheth sinned against David, he was never cast out.  He was punished but he was allowed to eat at the king’s table.  He was also spared when the Gibeonites required that seven of Saul’s descendants be hanged.  2 Samuel 21:7  Preservation of the saints or perseverance of the saints seems to be the theme here.

I am sure that other important thoughts can be said about this subject but these are the things that seemed to stick out at me.