This may be one of the most powerful messages of mercy and grace from the Old Testament. It’s the short story about a hopeless, crippled boy who is pulled from the town of Lo Debar, “God Forsaken”, into a new family with blessing and security and a future. Take the time to meet Mephibosheth. He has a deeply encouraging message for you.
About this Message
Survey the traumatic setting in I Samuel 31:1-6 (rated R for violence).
Read Mephibosheth’s story beginning in 2 Samuel 4:4.
See the action in 2 Samuel Chapter 9.
Go Deeper Questions
From 2 Samuel 9, fill out each category in the two columns representing Mephibosheth’s life:
Lo Debar Jerusalem
- Physically
- Emotionally
- Spiritually
- Relationally
- Financially
- His Future
As you compare/contrast these two lives of our same hero, what do you notice?
If “mercy” is defined as not getting what one deserves, what are examples of mercy in Mephibosheth’s life?
If “grace” is defined as getting what one does not deserve, what are examples of grace in Mephibosheth’s life?
Read 2 Corinthians 5:17. Where do you see mercy and grace in your life?