ZIBA: A Scheming Manipulator

2 Samuel 16:1-4

On the surface, this meeting between David and Ziba appears to be straightforward and honest. But, it was actually a well-planned scheme to manipulate David’s favor.

ZIBA’S BACKGROUND — We were introduced to Ziba in 2 Samuel 9.

1. Ziba was previously a servant of Saul’s son, Jonathan (9:1-2). After Jonathan’s death, Ziba was probably enjoying the “good life” living off Jonathan’s estate. Ziba was in control of Jonathan’s property. No one gave him orders.
2. David inquired of Ziba if there were any left of the house of Saul that he could show the kindness of God to (9:3-5). Ziba answered that only Mephibosheth was left.
3. David desired to show kindness to Mephibosheth, for Jonathan’s sake, and instructed Ziba and his sons, to “till the land for him” (9:10). “And all that dwelt in the house of Ziba were servants unto Mephibosheth” (9:12).Ziba seeks to capitalize on the political unrest and David’s emotional distress to manipulate the situation for his own advantage. Ziba was a political opportunist.

I. Ziba’s SUPPLIES (v. 1).

How did he get to the top of the hill before David with all those supplies? Was he “tipped off” in advance concerning Absalom’s plot?

• While David welcomed the provisions, he received them under false pretense. Ziba had ulterior motives. They were given to make him “look good” before David and then profit from it. He was using gifts (taken from Mephibosheth) and lies to manipulate David’s favor (Prov. 17:23—“A wicked man taketh a gift out of the bosom to pervet the ways of judgment.”).
• David and his followers fled from Jerusalem so quickly, they did not bring much in the way of provisions. So the sight of all this good food and drink must have seemed like a blessing from God. This is exactly what Ziba intended David to believe.
• Ziba  is not loyal to David—He is loyal only to himself!

II. Ziba’s SUBTLETY (vs. 2-3). 

PARTIAL SERMON:  See PDF for full sermon