2 Samuel 7:1-29
Q.1. With whom did David consult? What did God promise to David and Israel? Who would establish this kingdom? For how long? – (2 Sam.7:1-17)
God had blessed David with peace and a beautiful palace. He expressed his sorrow that the Ark of God’s presence was housed in a tent, informed told the prophet Nathan (2 Sam.7:1-2). It seemed reasonable to Nathan, who agreed that he should follow through with his plans (2 Sam.7:3). Nevertheless, God had other plans. Not only had the Ark only been house in a tent up to that time, but God asked – … did I speak a word with one of the tribes of Israel … why have you not built Me a house of cedar? (2 Sam.7:7). God told Nathan concerning Israel about a future day when He would plant them in their own place where they would not be disturbed again, nor will the wicked afflict them any more as formerly (2 Sam.7:10). He also made the Messianic promise – 12 When your days are complete and you lie down with your fathers, I will raise up your descendant after you, who will come forth from you, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He shall build a house for My name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 14 I will be a father to him and he will be a son to Me … (2 Sam.7:12-14). It was a promise to David’s descendants and will be fulfilled by Christ when He establishes His eternal kingdom – Your house and your kingdom shall endure before Me forever; your throne shall be established forever (2 Sam.7:16 c.f. Lk.1:31-33).
Q.2. What did David understand by Nathan’s prophecy? How did God prove His greatness to Israel? What was David’s request? – (2 Sam.7:18-29)
In his prayer David showed that he understood the amazing honour that God was bestowing on him – And yet this was insignificant in Your eyes, O Lord God, for You have spoken also of the house of Your servant concerning the distant future (2 Sam.7:19). He was humbled to the dust and opened his heart to express high praise to a God Who had brought a revelation that He had chosen the nation of Israel as His people – For You have established for Yourself Your people Israel as Your own people forever, and You, O Lord, have become their God (2 Sam.7:24). He called on the Lord to be faithful to His promises – 27 For You, O Lord of hosts, the God of Israel, have made a revelation to Your servant, saying, ‘I will build you a house’; therefore, Your servant has found courage to pray this prayer to You. 28 Now, O Lord God, You are God, and Your words are truth, and You have promised this good thing to Your servant. 29 Now therefore, may it please You to bless the house of Your servant, that it may continue forever before You (2 Sam.7:27-29). It greatly empowers our praying when we rely upon the promises of God.