By Douglas K. Wilson, Ph.D.
Dean, Office for Global Engagement, University of Mobile
ESTABLISHED
2 Samuel 7:8–21
Our focus this week is God’s promise, His covenant with David that through him would come the eternal King. Centuries after David, Isaiah anticipated this Messianic, Davidic kingdom: “He will reign on the throne of David and over His kingdom … forever” (Isa. 9:7).
Matthew wrote with an understanding that Jesus was the fulfillment of the Davidic covenant. He included 10 references to the “Son of David,” beginning with the very first verse of his Gospel account. He also recorded that in the time of Jesus’ ministry, both the common people (Matt. 12:23) and religious leaders (Matt. 22:42) knew about this promise.
Mark, Luke and John each referred to Jesus as the Son of David as well. Blind Bartimaeus of Jericho cried out for mercy to the “Son of David” (Mark 10:46–47; Luke 18:38–39). Jesus’ disciples asked Him about the re-establishment of Israel’s kingdom just prior to His ascension (Acts 1:6). In Revelation, John called Jesus “the root and offspring of David” (Rev. 5:5; 22:16). From start to finish the New Testament clearly communicates that Jesus is the promised Son of David.
Rest (8–11a)
King David had utilized his political and financial partnership with Phoenician monarch Hiram to build a palace in Jerusalem. The Ark of the Covenant sat in a special tent near the palace. The Philistines posed no immediate threat. David was at rest.
Although he was at peace with his adversaries, his mind was racing. How could he live in a cedar-lined palace while the Ark of God sat out in a tent? Would God allow David to build a temple in which to place the Ark? He asked the Prophet Nathan.
Initially, Nathan gave him permission. After receiving a word from the Lord though, the prophet told David he would not build a temple. In time God would grant Israel peace and rest from their oppressors. God had something better for David and his family.
Rule (11b–17)
God was going to establish the house of David. Not only would God establish the Davidic dynasty to reign over Judah until the Babylonian exile, but He also would establish the eternal kingdom.
Nathan spelled out several details of the Davidic covenant relating to David’s rule. First God would establish the house of David. Second David’s direct descendants would rule after his death. Third God and David’s son would have a father-son relationship. Finally God would establish David’s house, kingdom and throne forever. God’s appointed King will reign.
Rejoice Over (18–21)
Upon hearing this revelation from Nathan, David rejoiced. This prophetic message was more than good news for David and his generation. The king recognized these words from God would have profound future impact on the kingdom of Israel.
In the midst of his praise to God, David demonstrated characteristics which believers today would do well to learn. He expressed humble praise, recognizing that God was the focus of attention and affection. He believed God’s Word, acknowledging that His promises for the future are far greater than the blessings David had previously experienced. Finally he communicated few words in response to the prophecy.
This last quality was one that David clearly passed on to Solomon: “Do not be hasty to speak and do not be impulsive to make a speech before God … let your words be few” (Eccles. 5:2). May we learn this lesson well.
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