Paul Hansen Old TRestament 2 Samuel 91-13
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Name: Paul hansen
Date: Sun Oct 29, 2023
Old Testament Bible Study Assignment
Passage: 2 Samuel 9:1-13
Instructions: For this assignment, you will be studying the Old Testament story of David and Mephibosheth found in 2 Samuel 9:1-13. You will use the template below in order to complete a study of this passage. In your study, you will use the skills of Observation, Interpretation, Correlation, and Application that you have become familiar with through your reading in Everyday Bible Study
.
I. Observation
A.
I have read 2 Samuel 9:1-13 in both a formal translation (KJV, NKJV, NASB, ESV, or CSB) and a functional translation (NIV, NLT, or NCV). Highlight the correct answer. Please use the translation provided in your digital library or found at Biblegateway.com
o
Yes
B.
Having read the passage in both formal and functional translation, list at least 2 similarities and 3 differences between the way both translations cover this story. You may list as many similarities and differences that you find as long as you meet the minimum amount. Similarity: The translations of the text emphasize similar motifs, such as faithfulness, benevolence, and integrity. They portray David's longing to uphold his pact with Jonathan and extend compassion towards Mephibosheth despite his physical limitations.
Similarity: The two versions encompass identical chronicles of events, comprising David's query regarding the existence of any remaining individuals from Saul's lineage, the subsequent introduction of Ziba and Mephibosheth, David's pledge to exhibit benevolence towards them, and ultimately granting Mephibosheth the privilege to partake in meals at his
table.
Difference: There are slight variations in the phrasing of certain sentences across different versions. For instance, verse 7 in the ESV reads as "I will show you kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan," whereas the NKJV renders it as "I will surely show you kindness for Jonathan your father's sake." Although these differences exist, they do not alter or compromise the overall intended meaning.
Difference: The ESV uses modern and straightforward language, aiming for readability without sacrificing accuracy. The NKJV, on the other hand, retains some archaic language and sentence structures from the original King James Version, giving it a more traditional and formal tone.
Difference: Although the fundamental message remains intact, there exist slight variances in lexical selection between the two translated versions. Take verse 8 as an example; while the ESV employs "regard" ("that you should show regard for a dead dog such as I?"), the NKJV opts for "look upon" ("that you should look upon such a dead dog as I?"). These distinctions exemplify stylistic preferences inherent to each respective team of translators.
C.
Identify the basic elements of the story you are studying
1. Main characters: (List them)
David
Ziba
Mephibosheth
2. Plot: (50-100 words)
King David, after consolidating his rule, inquires if there is anyone left from the house of Saul to whom he can show kindness for Jonathan's sake. Ziba informs him about Mephibosheth, who is living in Lode bar. David summons Mephibosheth, assures him of his
safety, restores his family's land, and invites him to eat at his table regularly and displaying
extraordinary kindness despite Mephibosheth's physical inhibitors.
3. Narrative structure: (50-100 words)
Note: Plot and Narrative Structure are not the same thing (see the tutorial and student example)
In 2 Samuel 9:1-13, the narrative revolves around David's act of kindness. It begins with his inquiry, leading to the discovery of Mephibosheth. The story follows a linear structure, with David's dialogue with Ziba providing essential information. The narrative peaks when
David welcomes Mephibosheth, emphasizing his intent to honor his covenant with Jonathan. This story showcases themes of loyalty and grace, illustrating David's compassionate and just rule.
D.
List basic observations about this passage using the “Key Question” for observation.
Remember to review chapters 17 and 33 in Everyday Bible Study
. This will help you be more detailed in your answers to “who,” “what,” “where,” “when,” “why,” and “how.” Please be detailed and specific as you answer these six key questions.
1. Who:
David:
The king of Israel.
Mephibosheth:
Son of Jonathan, grandson of Saul, and a member of the house of Saul.
Ziba:
A servant from the house of Saul who informs David about Mephibosheth.
2. What:
David seeks to find anyone left from the house of Saul to show kindness for Jonathan's sake.
David discovers Jonathan's son Mephibosheth, who is living in Lo-debar.
David shows extraordinary kindness to Mephibosheth, restoring his family's land and inviting him to eat at the king's table regularly.
3. Where:
Lo-debar is where Mephibosheth is residing, described as a location east of the Jordan River.
4. When:
The verses occur during David's reign as king.
5. Why:
David shows kindness to Mephibosheth for the sake of his friendship with Jonathan, displaying
loyalty to his covenant with Jonathan despite Saul's enmity with David.
David fulfills his promise to Jonathan to show kindness to his descendants (2 Samuel 9:1).
6. How
:
He asks if there's anyone left from Saul's house to whom he can show kindness.
Ziba informs David about Mephibosheth's whereabouts.
He sends for Mephibosheth, assures his safety, restores his land, and invites him to eat at his table, demonstrating kindness and grace despite Mephibosheth's physical disabilities.
II. Interpretation
A.
Summarize: Determine the author’s main point. In 1-2 paragraphs (100-400 words) explain what you think the author is trying to communicate in this passage. Remember
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two things. First, this passage is made up of both action and dialogue. Thus, this passage is both showing and telling us something. Second, words like “I,” “We,” “Us,” and “Our”
are application words and not interpretation words. Thus, they should not be used in your answer for this question. Interpretation is about “then and there” and not “here and now.” We were not there so the passage is not about us. Our “part” in the passage is the application or how we will respond to God’s Word.
In 2 Samuel 9:1-13, the author portrays King David's exemplary kindness and loyalty, highlighting the essence of true leadership. Despite his triumph over Saul's house, David seeks to fulfill a covenant made with his dear friend, Jonathan. The passage underscores David's commitment to honor relationships and extend grace even in a position of power. By actively searching for a survivor of Saul's line, he exemplifies compassion and upholds his promise. Mephibosheth, a crippled descendant of Saul, becomes the recipient of David's
benevolence, symbolizing the broader theme of God's graciousness reaching out to the marginalized and undeserving. This passage resonates the broader message of divine mercy, emphasizing how individuals in positions of influence should emulate such compassion. Through David's actions, the author communicates the enduring importance of fidelity to promises, kindness, and inclusion, showcasing a profound lesson in both human and divine relationships.
B.
Identify: Based on your answer above, write out one principle from this passage. You should be able to express this principle in 1-3 sentences. Once again, please remember that words like “I,” “We,” “Us,” and “Our” are application words and not interpretation words.
The principle derived from 2 Samuel 9:1-13 is that true leadership is marked by compassionate kindness and the faithful fulfillment of promises, even when in a position of power. This passage teaches that those in authority should actively seek opportunities to extend grace, honor relationships, and include the marginalized, exemplifying a spirit of benevolence and commitment.
C.
Check: Consult at least one scholarly resource in order to offer support for the principle that you believe the passage is teaching. Please consult the “Commentaries” as well as the “Bible Dictionaries & Handbooks” tabs found on this research guide provided by the Jerry Falwell Library.
BIBL105 Research Guide
III. Correlation
A.
How does this Old Testament narrative fit within the metanarrative of the Bible? State what type of story you believe this to be (creation, fall, redemption, or new creation) and explain why you believe this to be so? Your explanation should be 1 paragraph (100-200 words) in length. It may be good to review chapter six in Everyday Bible Study
in order to
recall what each of these four themes are about.
2 Samuel 9:1-13 fits within the metanarrative of the Bible as a story of redemption and grace. In this passage, we witness the fallen nature of humanity represented by Mephibosheth, who is not only physically disabled but also a descendant of Saul, whose house was condemned by God. Despite the fallen state of Saul's lineage, David's actions demonstrate redemption and restoration. David, as a representative of God's covenant promise, extends grace to Mephibosheth, bringing him from a place of obscurity and disgrace to a position of honor and privilege at the king's table. This act of kindness reflects
the larger redemptive arc of the Bible, where humanity, marked by sin and brokenness (the
fall), is offered redemption and restoration through the unmerited grace of God. The story in 2 Samuel 9, therefore, exemplifies redemption, showcasing God's desire to restore and uplift the fallen, a theme that dominates throughout the entire bible.
B.
How does your principle fit with the rest of the Scripture? This principle is the one you have written out in 1-3 sentences in the Interpretation assignment. If your principle is a true Biblical principle, it will be reflected throughout the Scriptures. Where is the principle discovered in this Old Testament narrative found elsewhere in the Scriptures? Your explanation should be 1 paragraph (200-300 words) in length. Be specific. List, explain, and cite your supporting passage(s) from Scripture.
True leadership, characterized by compassion, loyalty, and the faithful fulfilment of promises, is a consistent theme throughout the Bible. Jesus Christ, the ultimate model of leadership, demonstrated these qualities during His earthly ministry. His teachings on servant leadership in the New Testament align perfectly with the principle derived from 2 Samuel 9:1-13. In Matthew 20:25-28, Jesus states that true greatness comes from serving others, emphasizing humility and selflessness. Additionally, the concept of honoring commitments and showing kindness to the marginalized is reflected in the teachings of the Prophets, especially in passages emphasizing social justice and care for the vulnerable (Isaiah 1:17, Micah 6:8). The New Testament apostles, such as James and 1 John, stress the importance of faith demonstrated through actions, including kindness and love toward others. In essence, the principle of true leadership found in 2 Samuel 9:1-13 resonates throughout the entire bible, emphasizing the qualities of grace, mercy, and integrity as essential traits of godly leaders, echoing the example set by Jesus Christ and emphasized consistently in both the Old and New Testaments.
C.
How does this Old Testament narrative reflect the person and work of Jesus Christ? State and explain at least one way that the principle of this narrative can be identified in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Your explanation should be 1 paragraph (200-300 words) in length. Be specific. List, explain, and cite your supporting passage(s) from Scripture.
2 Samuel 9:1-13 reflects the character of Jesus through the principles of grace and restoration. In this narrative, we see David's kindness extended to Mephibosheth, a crippled descendant of Saul. Similarly, Jesus Christ exemplified divine grace by reaching out to the marginalized and broken, offering salvation and restoration to those considered unworthy in society. One striking parallel is found in Luke 19:1-10, the story of Zacchaeus. Just as Mephibosheth was in a lowly state due to his physical condition and lineage, Zacchaeus was a despised tax collector. Yet, Jesus chose to dine with Zacchaeus' house, demonstrating unconditional acceptance and love. This act mirrors David's gesture towards Mephibosheth, highlighting the redemptive nature of Christ. Both stories emphasize the transforming power of grace, where those deemed unworthy are not only accepted but also restored to a place of honor and belonging through the unmerited love of God. This connection underlines the consistent theme of God's graceful restoration, embodied in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
IV. Application
What points of application can be made using the “Four Questions for Application?” State and explain 1 point of application for each of these four questions. Your explanation for each of these points should be 1 paragraph (100-200 words) in length.
A.
The question of duty
The narrative of 2 Samuel 9:1-13 challenges us to fulfill our duties of kindness and loyalty even in positions of power. We are duty-bound, as leaders or individuals with influence, to seek out opportunities to extend grace and compassion to those in need, mirroring David's initiative in seeking Mephibosheth. This duty emphasizes the importance
of actively demonstrating love and empathy, especially to those society often overlooks or marginalizes. It reminds us that our duty extends beyond personal interests to caring for the well-being of others, reflecting God's love and forgiveness’ in our actions.
B. The question of character
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This passage emphasizes the character traits of compassion, kindness, and integrity. Our character, like David's, should be marked by genuine concern for others, even when it requires going above and beyond societal expectations. Just as David's character was defined by his faithfulness to his covenant with Jonathan, our character should reflect loyalty and honor in our relationships. True character shines through when we show kindness without expecting anything in return, mirroring the selfless nature of God's love for us.
C. The question of goals
The narrative prompts us to set goals that prioritize kindness and inclusion. Our goals should encompass creating environments where everyone, regardless of their background or abilities, feels valued and welcomed. In our personal and professional spheres, our goals should align with fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance, akin to how David's goal was to integrate Mephibosheth into his royal family. By setting goals focused on inclusivity and kindness, we actively contribute to creating a more compassionate society.
D. The question of discernment
This passage calls for discernment in recognizing opportunities to extend grace. Discernment helps us identify individuals who might need our support or kindness the most, resembling how David discerned Mephibosheth's situation. It involves understanding the needs of those around us, recognizing their worth, and discerning how our actions can significantly impact their lives. Discernment allows us to respond to others' needs effectively, ensuring our kindness is purposeful and meaningful, echoing the discerning nature of God's grace in our lives.