ADULT
Lesson Commentary Spring Quarter, 2014
Written by Larry Crouch, David Butimore and Mark Thornton
CONTENTS
Editor’s Note . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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About the Writers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Wayne Sewell
[email protected]
Introductions to the Books of 2 Samuel, 1 Kings and 1 Chronicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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PRODUCTION EDITOR:
Lesson 1
David’s Reign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Samuel 5; 1 Chronicles 11; 12
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Lesson 2
David’s Mistake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
EDITOR IN CHIEF:
Larry E. Clements
[email protected] BUSINESS MANAGER:
Sally McInvale ADULT EDITOR:
Jim Jones CHILDREN’S EDITOR:
2 Samuel 6; 1 Chronicles 13—16 Lesson 3
David’s House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 2 Samuel 7; 1 Chronicles 17
Lesson 4
Shawn Blase Jeff Allen Greg Hilterbrand
David’s Loyalty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 2 Samuel 8; 9; 1 Chronicles 18
Lesson 5
David’s Sins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 2 Samuel 10; 11; 1 Chronicles 19
LAYOUT DESIGNERS:
Lesson 6
David’s Repentance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 2 Samuel 12; 1 Chronicles 20
Lesson 7
David’s Family . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 2 Samuel 13; 14
Lesson 8
David’s Grief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 2 Samuel 15—18
Lesson 9
David’s Return . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 2 Samuel 19—21
Lesson 10
David’s Song. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 2 Samuel 22
Lesson 11
David’s Transgression . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 2 Samuel 23; 24; 1 Chronicles 21
Lesson 12
David’s Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 1 Chronicles 22
Libby Gill ILLUSTRATOR:
Connie Spears GRAPHIC ARTISTS:
Kyle Elkins Cindy Butler Ashley Elkins CONTENT EDITORS:
Terry McKellar Carolyn Burks Deby Turrentine Joni Curtis Becky Bazar Cordell PRINT PRODUCTION:
Charles Easley COVER DESIGN:
Jeff Allen Copyright © 2014 Vol. 14, No. 4 Bogard Press 4605 N. State Line Ave. Texarkana, TX 75503-2928 www.bogardpress.org 1-800-264-2482
Lesson 13
David’s Death. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 1 Kings 1; 2; 1 Chronicles 23—29 Bibliography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Editor’s Note There is nothing in literature like the blatant honesty of Scripture. My pastor used to say the Bible paints the picture of a man, warts and all. There are no airbrushed portraits in God’s hall of faith. Biographers of famous people are often silent or biased regarding the shortcomings of their subject while they are flattering and exaggerative describing their successes. Though the Bible records the words and deeds of many people, it is not mainly a book about men. It is a revelation of the person, plan and work of God. People are in God’s Word primarily as they interact with God’s overall plan and purpose. However, there are great lessons to be learned from the lives of the people who populate the pages of God’s Word. One of the greatest characters in the Old Testament and the subject of our study this quarter is David. David is mentioned in Scripture more than any other person. His name is found 931 times in the King James Version of the Bible. Just for comparison, Solomon is mentioned 263 times, Moses 785, Samuel 179 and Abraham 262. During our study of 2 Samuel 5—24, 1 Chronicles 11—29, and 1 Kings 1; 2, we will focus on The Reign of David—Sweet Psalmist of Israel. The life of David covers every conceivable circumstance and situation. The Bible shows him bravely victorious in battle and spinelessly plotting in sin. The study of his life is encouraging, discouraging, shocking, exhilarating, depressing and most of all— true-to-life. David lived an unhidden life for all to see, as it unfolds on the pages of God’s holy Word. Focusing on David’s life would be of little value if biblical principles were not derived and applied from the study. As readers see the compounded effects of sin in David’s life, they should be warned about the consequences of sin. When we learn how he kept his promise to Jonathan, to his own hurt, we may be encouraged to keep our promises. David’s failure to withstand temptation followed by several attempts to cover his sin is a lesson for all the ages. The genuine and deep humility of David’s repentance before God, covered in Lesson 6, is a primer for everyone on the subject. David’s poor handling of Absalom’s sin, his incomplete forgiveness of his son and the ensuing tragic consequences, deserve the full attention of every parent. As we learn about David, may we also gain insight in how to live for Christ as we deal with temptation, sin, success, heartache, loss, deprivation, elation, family problems, old age, grief and the gamut of human emotions that accompany life in this world. God’s Word paints David’s life on a large canvas for good reason. God’s people may learn much from this man after God’s own heart (Acts 13:22). This Adult Lesson Commentary is not intended to be an exhaustive verse-byverse commentary, but an examination of the Scripture passages designated for each week’s study. Every lesson consists of three elements: the narrative explains the Scripture passage; the manna is a discussion of interesting and informative topics related to the Scripture passage; and the word studies are based on specific words from the Hebrew used in the Scripture text. Special thanks go to Larry Crouch who wrote the lesson narratives, Mark Thornton who did the word studies and David Butimore who prepared the mannas. Thank you! Larry E. Clements, Editor in Chief of Publications Baptist Sunday School Committee
About the Writers Recognized for their knowledge, wisdom and understanding of the Holy Scriptures, the writers of the Adult Lesson Commentary are faithful pastors, teachers and spiritual leaders among the Lord’s churches. Following are a few biographical notes about these men.
Brother Larry Crouch is a native of California, saved and baptized at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Sacramento, California, in 1952. He surrendered to preach on August 4, 1957, at Bayshore Missionary Baptist Church in Vallejo, California. Brother Crouch received his Bachelor of Theology degree from California Missionary Baptist Institute in Bellflower, California, in 1976. He remained with the school for several years and taught Major and Minor Prophets, Pastoral and Prison Epistles, Hermeneutics and Journalism. He is a member of the California and American Baptist Association History and Archives Committees. The Fresno Missionary Baptist Institute in Fresno, California, conferred upon him the degree of Doctor of Divinity in 1998. He has pastored in Washington and California and currently pastors Landmark Missionary Baptist Church in Oakhurst, California. He and his wife, Joyce, and son, Zachary make their home in Oakhurst, California. His address is PO Box 768, Oakhurst, CA 93644.
Brother David Butimore, Sr. was born in January, 1951 in Lynwood, California. He graduated from Westminster High School (Westminster, California) in 1969. He attended and graduated (AA degree) from Orange Coast College in 1972. He was saved August 20, 1970, at a Missionary Baptist Encampment in Northern California. He was baptized by the authority of Community MBC, Orange, California. He attended California Missionary Baptist Institute and Seminary (CMBI) and graduated with a Doctor of Theology in 1990. He was ordained by the authority of Olive Hill MBC, Oroville, California (1975), and has held pastorates in California and Washington. He is currently the pastor of First MBC, Fresno. He served as faculty member and administrator of CMBI (1987-1993) and is currently President of Fresno Missionary Baptist Institute and Seminary. In the California Association, he has served as moderator, music director and parliamentarian. He has served in the Washington Association as moderator. He has served as Music Director, Assistant Parliamentarian, Parliamentarian, Vice President and President
of the American Baptist Association. He is currently serving on the Baptist Sunday School Committee and is Treasurer of the American Baptist Association of Theological Schools. He is the author of six books. He has been married to his wife, Debby, since 1977, and has two sons, a daughter and son-in-law and one grandson. Mark Thornton was saved in 1970 and baptized by Emmanuel MBC of Malvern, AR. He surrendered to preach in 1977 at age 16, and has served as pastor: Big Creek MBC of Malvern, AR, 1980-1986 and 2005-present; Liberty MBC of Little Rock, 1986-1997; First Baptist Church of Bryant, AR, 1997-2005. He has taught at the Missionary Baptist Seminary in Little Rock since 1989. He teaches Hebrew, Greek and Hermeneutics. He has written for the Searchlight, including a series on “Where We Got Our Bible.” In 2004 he earned a Doctor of Bible Languages degree from the seminary and attended the University of Haifa in Israel where he studied Hebrew in a summer intensive language school. He has also completed online Hebrew courses from Israel. He and his wife, Brenda, have two sons, Matthew and Steven, and two grandsons, Landon and Luke, with another grandson on the way.
The Book of 2 Samuel
Introduction Name: First and Second Samuel originally comprised one book in the Hebrew text. The Greek Septuagint divides them and names them the 1 and 2 Books of the Kingdoms. The Latin Vulgate names them the 1 and 2 Books of the Kings. The division of the books comes at a strange place in the course of the history recorded. First Samuel ends with the death of Saul, and 2 Samuel begins with David and the people of Israel gathering to lament Saul and his sons who had been killed in battle. Though the books are named for Samuel, his life interweaves with Eli, Saul and David who are also prominent men in the story line given here. Author: Jewish tradition attributes the books to the prophet-priest Samuel; however, the human author cannot be named or proven with any certainty. Most scholars agree that more than one writer was involved in compiling the books. The human author is not the important thing. We know that whoever the writer or writers were, they were directed and filled with the Holy Spirit (2 Tim. 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 1:21). One of the duties of the school of the prophets, which was started by Samuel, was to keep and maintain such records. Samuel, Gad and Nathan were prophets during this time period, all three wrote and kept records of the life of David. (See 1 Chronicles 29:29.) Date: The exact time of the writing is as uncertain as the name(s) of the human writer(s). First Chronicles 29:29 indicates that these inspired writings were available shortly after the death of David. It is possible they were compiled during the reign of Solomon. However, there are others who believe these writings were compiled at a later date during the reign of King Jehoshaphat. First Kings 14:19 is the first mention of the chronicles of the kings of Israel. This was during the reigns of Rehoboam over Judah and Jeroboam over the Northern Kingdom of Israel around 953 BC. Second Chronicles 16:11 is the first mention of the book of the kings of Judah. This was during the reign of Asa over Judah, and Baasha was king of Israel around 914 BC. Eli was a contemporary with Samson. Samuel was likely born before the death of Samson at the temple of Dagon. The time span covered in this study is about one hundred fifteen years from around 1125 BC, when Hannah prayed and asked God to grant her a son, to 1010 BC, the death of Saul. This places the birth of Samuel around the time of Israel’s oppression by the Amorites and the Philistines during the time Samson was judging Israel. The year 931 BC has been accepted as the date the kingdom was divided into the Northern Kingdom of Israel and the Southern Kingdom of Judah. Using this date and working backward, we form the following chronological chart:
Solomon reigned David reigned Saul reigned Samuel’s ministry Eli judged
40 years (2 Chron. 9:30) 40 years (2 Sam. 5:4) 40 years (Acts 13:21) 75 years 40 years (1 Sam. 4:18)
970-930 BC 1010-970 BC 1050-1010 BC 1090-1015 BC 1125-1085 BC
There is not a passage of Scripture that gives us the exact number of years Samuel ministered, and we are not told how old he was when he died. It is
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noteworthy that Samuel was called an old man and had sons old enough to be judges before 1050 BC, which was when Saul was anointed king over Israel (1 Sam. 8:1-3). Samuel’s ministry was contemporary with that of Eli for several years (1 Sam. 3:19—4:1). His ministry continued at least thirty-five years during the reign of Saul (1 Sam. 25:1).
The Book of 1 Kings
Introduction
Name: The two books of Kings are named from the subject matter, which is the history of the kings of Judah and Israel. The Hebrew title simply reads, “Kings.” Like the book of Samuel, Kings was written as one book; therefore, the Hebrew canon of Scripture treats 1 and 2 Kings as one book. The Greek Septuagint divided them into the third and fourth books of the kingdom. Author(s): There is no writer named within the book itself. Jewish tradition, along with several other scholars, has for many years given the authorship of the book to the prophet Jeremiah. Since he played an important role in the history of Judah during the later years of the kingdom, Jeremiah would have had personal knowledge concerning the contents of these books. Jeremiah had access to the various source materials that are mentioned within Kings: “the book of the acts of Solomon” (1 Kings 11:41); “the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel” (1 Kings 14:19); and “the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah” (verse 29). Date: The contents and language of the book help us to determine the time of its writing. The language used is later than that of the earlier prophets such as Isaiah, Amos or Hosea, but before the time of Haggai and Zechariah. The writing style is close to that of Jeremiah and Ezekiel’s time. The contents record the fall of Jerusalem and the capture and deportation of Jehoiachin and Zedekiah to Babylon. The last entry, 2 Kings 25:27-30, records the release of Jehoiachin by Evil-merodach during the first year of his reign in the year 561 BC. The fact that there is no mention of Israel’s return from captivity in the year 538 BC dates the writing most likely between 561-538 BC. Due to the overlapping reigns and co-regencies of several of the kings of both Judah and Israel, an exact period of time is difficult to pinpoint. First and Second Kings cover the period of Israel’s history from the last days of David (1 Kings 1) until the release of Jehoiachin (2 Kings 25). Calculations of dates and years give us a time period from four hundred ten to four hundred fifty-four years. Character: The book is presented as a record of the kings of Judah and Israel. However, the writer does not use the approach of a historian, but is more concerned with the religious aspects of the kingdom. He is dealing wih God’s chosen people and, as such, he is concerned with the promises and warnings that were given to David and those who followed him. The military history is passed over lightly while the ministry and miracles of the prophets are covered fully. In this quarter the ministries of Elijah, Elisha, Obadiah and Joel will be noted. A few, perhaps lesser known, prophets will also be heard from during this time of Israel’s history. They are: Ahijah; Jehu, son of Hanani; Shemiah; Azariah; Hanani; Jahaziel and Eliezer.
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The Book of 1 Chronicles
Introduction
Name: A chronicle is an account of historical events. First Chronicles records the genealogies from Adam down to the time of the house of Saul and the house of Jesse and David. It runs parallel with 2 Samuel and 1 Kings, giving additional information. Author(s): Like the book of 1 Kings, there is no writer named within the book itself. Comparing the writing style with that of the book of Ezra one finds a lot of similarity. Jewish tradition points to Ezra, the ready scribe, as the author of the Chronicles. The writer used a number of different sources and refers to 1 and 2 Kings and also the records of Shemaiah the prophet. Date: From the historical records within the book, it is reasonably certain that it was written some time after the Babylonian captivity and the return of the exiles (2 Chron. 36:22, 23). Character: The book of 1 Chronicles may be divided into two major divisions. The first division is comprised of chapters 1—9. This is a listing of the genealogies of God’s chosen, Israel. It begins with Adam and continues to the time of David. This list enabled the Jews returning from Babylonian captivity to establish their family tree and claim their territorial inheritance. This was important because of the importance Ezra and Nehemiah placed on the purity of lineage and the censure placed on mixed marriages with idolaters. The second division includes chapters 10—29. This division deals with the kingdom of Israel under king David. It also tells of David’s preparations for the building of the Temple and his charge to Solomon to be a man. Chapters 23—27 reveal the planning David set in order for the Temple service, including the various tasks of the Levites and the appointment of officers. The final two chapters contain David’s farewell speech to Israel and a charge concerning his son, Solomon. Some things covered in Chronicles are also covered in the books of Samuel and Kings. However, there is little out-and-out repetition. Samuel and Kings detail the monarchy, telling the sins and glory of the kings. Especially is this true of Saul, David and Solomon. Chronicles skips over much of this information. Chronicles deals more with Israel’s history from the viewpoint of their priestly relationship to God. The emphasis in Chronicles is on religious responsibility and rites. None of these books are to be studied just for the sake of understanding historical facts. They serve as examples, types, warnings and encouragement for the future generations of God’s children in Israel and the church. They serve as a guide to bring the believing reader closer to God.
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Lesson 1
For Sunday, March 2, 2014
David’s Reign
2 Samuel 5; 1 Chronicles 11; 12
David’s early life prepared him for the responsibilities that come with leadership, which is the ability to lead and be in control of the situation. David chose the marks of a good leader. He showed faith in God and courage when preparing to fight Goliath. He showed responsibility as a guest and harpist in Saul’s house. He chose the right kind of friends, like Jonathan, Abiathar, Joab and Abishai, who stood by him through good times and bad. He proved his honesty when he confessed to Abiathar his part in Ahimelech’s death. His kindness and commitment to his word were shown to Abiathar and Mephibosheth on the death of their fathers. He was ready to help the city of Keilah, without any thanks from them. He was attentive to Abigail’s plea not to bloody his hands with the foolish Nabal. His patience was demonstrated again and again during the fourteen years he waited on the Lord after being anointed by Samuel. He was generous by allowing all six hundred of his men equal shares in the spoils of the Amalekites. His respect for Saul, his sons and Abner in their deaths won him the respect of all the people of Israel. David proved his loyalty both to God, his country and his friends. Developing these leadership skills did not happen overnight. David was about sixteen when Samuel anointed him. He did not start his reign until the age of thirty (2 Sam. 5:4). During those fourteen years David was trained and molded by God. During those fourteen years, the people of Israel were also taught. They changed their minds and hearts about leadership. Saul was chosen for several wrong reasons. The people of Israel were now ready to do the right thing and accept God’s choice. There are sixty-one chapters in the Old Testament given to the life of David. In addition to this David wrote at least seventy-three of the Psalms. There are one hundred eighteen Old Testament and fifty-nine New Testament quotes or references concerning David and his life. The trials David faced as a young man did not defeat him, instead they molded him into a strong leader. The world often looks at trials and they see stumbling blocks. Those who are guided by God look at trials and see building blocks. David’s spirit in his accession to Israel’s throne demonstrates why God called him a man after His own heart (1 Sam. 13:14; Acts 13:22). The secret of 8
David’s Reign / 9 David’s success lay in the fact that, “The Lord of hosts was with him” (1 Chron. 11:9). This verse is key to this lesson and those that follow. DAVID CROWNED KING 2 Samuel 5:1-5; 1 Chronicles 11:1-3 The final years of Saul’s reign as king of Israel were chaotic. Saul became obsessed with the thought that David was attempting to overthrow him as king. He became impatient, suspicious, self-willed and rebellious against God. As a result, he spent most of his time trying to capture David and have him tried as a traitor. Saul’s jealous rages turned him against those who were his most loyal subjects, which eventually turned them against Saul. Israel, at this time in history, was riddled with internal strife and intrigue. The prophetical warnings given by Samuel before Saul was anointed king had come true. The people of Israel had forsaken God as their rightful leader and pleaded for an earthly king. The results were that their sons were drafted to be soldiers, their daughters were also drafted to serve the king. Taxes on property, crops and animals would be added to pay for all the things that would be demanded. Even the best among their servants would be taken to serve in the king’s house (1 Sam. 8:6-22). Not only was the internal strife ripping the kingdom apart, but also the external pressures from Israel’s enemies continued to increase. The Philistines grew stronger and bolder with each passing day. When Saul’s weakness and the declining support among the people of Israel became more evident, the Philistines took advantage and increased their attacks. Out of desperation, Saul thought to seek the Lord’s counsel and guidance. However, his open rebellion against God and His prophet Samuel had closed that door and afforded Saul no such opportunity. In a last ditch desperate hope, Saul sought the help of the witch of Endor. The Lord’s command was, “Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live” (Ex. 22:18). Israel was also commanded, “There shall not be found among you . . . a witch” (Deut. 18:10). Saul was still showing his open rebellion against God. The answers Saul received were not what he expected or wanted to hear. He was told that he and his sons would fall in battle the next day, and Israel would be dreadfully defeated. When these words were fulfilled, it opened the way for David to finally be recognized and crowned as the king of Israel. Samuel had anointed David for this day over a decade earlier. Those intervening years served to train David to be a great leader. When the news of Saul’s death was known, the tribe of Judah immediately recognized David as their king. These were his kinsmen and many of them had stood by David during the years of wandering. They had grown to love and respect him as a leader and for his spiritual character. Not everyone in Israel shared the tribe of Judah’s conviction. The majority were still loyal to the house of Saul. The youngest son of Saul, Ish-bosheth, was not killed in the battle with the Philistines. Abner, Saul’s commanding general, was successful in anointing Ish-bosheth as the rightful king of Israel. The tribe of Judah refused to acknowledge him as king, and civil war ensued. David’s army continued to grow stronger, while Abner’s forces grew weaker.
10 / 2 Samuel 5; 1 Chronicles 11; 12 Enraged by Ish-bosheth’s accusations regarding Rizpah, one of Saul’s concubines, Abner capitulated to David by offering to form an alliance. But first, David insisted that Michal, his wife first given to him by Saul and then taken from him and given to Phalti (1 Sam. 25:44), be returned. Abner sent men to bring her to David. There is no indication that they resumed their husband-wife relationship. Her return seemed to be for the political advantage it would give him in the eyes of the other tribes of Israel. Abner’s mission met with success. He returned to Hebron with twenty chosen men to meet with David and the deal was sealed. Joab returned shortly after Abner’s departure and soon learned of the visit. Joab harbored years of bitter hatred against Abner. This was partly out of fear and jealousy and more so because Abner had killed his younger brother Asahel. Joab left and hurried after the departing Abner. Near the gate of Hebron, the two met, and Joab killed the unsuspecting Abner. Joab claimed he was acting as the avenger of blood, for his brother. He did relieve Joab of his military command and required that he lead the funeral procession in mourning for Abner. This also let the tribes of Israel know that David had no part in the death of Abner. Two renegades, Baanah and Rechab, were hoping to profit by their cruel act of Captain: this word focuses on one’s murder. They killed Ish-bosheth while he authority in official capacity as slept and then brought his head to David. ruler or commander. David was to They believed David would reward them be the one who would lead Israel with some position or wealth. Instead, and reveal to the nation the will David ordered their deaths. David then and direction of God.The Hebrew word is variously translated in the ordered that the body and head of IshKing James Version as captain, ruler, bosheth be placed in the ancestral prince, leader, governor or chief. sepulchre, along with the body of Abner. Word Study #5057. David’s conduct during this entire sequence of events is a valuable lesson for us today. He stands as an example of humility. He never attempted to exalt himself. David waited upon the Lord to bring him into the promised and anointed position as king over all Israel. This did not rule out using self-defense when attacked. It does teach us not to plot and seek vengeance by our own hands. David illustrated the importance of waiting on God’s timing to accomplish the right purpose for one’s life. David had League: a covenant, an agreement. many lessons to learn before he was ready David made or cut a covenant to take and fulfill his appointed role. “So with the men of Hebron. It was all the elders of Israel came to the king a treaty, or binding relationship, to Hebron; and king David made a league between David the king and the with them in Hebron before the Lord: and people. This word is used 284 times in the Old Testament and is they anointed David king over Israel” predominantly translated covenant. (2 Sam. 5:3). Word Study #1285. David was sixteen or seventeen years old when Samuel anointed him at his
David’s Reign / 11 father’s house (1 Sam. 16:6-13). A year later he encountered and defeated Goliath because of his trust in the Lord (1 Sam. 17). Therefore, the events recorded in 1 Samuel 17—2 Samuel 5 cover a period of about twelve years. David was thirty when he began to reign over Judah for seven and a half years from Hebron. He ruled over all Israel from Jerusalem for thirty-three years (2 Sam. 5:4, 5). DAVID’S CAPITAL 2 Samuel 5:6-10; 1 Chronicles 11:4-9 The years of civil war had driven a wedge between the southern and northern tribes of Israel. If David was to rule with any success, that wedge had to be removed. Now, the time had come for all the people of Israel to affirm their allegiance to David as Israel’s king. He had reigned over Judah for seven and a half years. Now, the last son of Saul was dead, and “all the tribes of Israel” (2 Sam. 5:1) were gathered to pledge their allegiance to the new king. David’s capital had been the city of Hebron, a city deep within the territory assigned to the tribe of Judah. The capital needed to be in a more neutral and centrally located area of the country. These objectives were accomplished when David chose to take the Jebusite stronghold and make Jerusalem the capital of Israel. When Israel first came into the land of Canaan, Judah and Simeon conquered the Gutter: the only other time this fortress at Jerusalem after several years of word is used is in Psalm 42:7 where it is waterspouts. Here struggle (Joshua 15:63; Judges 1:8). The city it is a pipe or a spout which had been given to the tribe of Benjamin as a conducts water throughout a part of their tribal inheritance, but they did city. Word Study #6794. not fully drive out the Jebusites. The Jebusites reoccupied Jerusalem, and they fortified the city. Located on the Hill of Ophel, Jerusalem made an excellent fortress. It was naturally defended on three sides by deep valleys; on the west was the Tyropoeon Valley, to the south was the valley of Hinnom and to the east was the Kidron Valley. The Gihon spring provided a good water supply. The city was so well fortified that the Jebusites boasted that the blind and lame could defend it (2 Sam. 5:6). The Jebusites did not understand the military genius and The hold: it means “a mountain power of David’s God. stronghold, fort, or fortress.” Israel However, David’s first move as king today has a national park near the over all Israel was to move the seat of Dead Sea on top of a mountain called Masada. The name of that park comes government from Hebron to Jerusalem. from the word used here. The hold This was no easy task, but David would have been difficult to attack. considered it imperative that Jerusalem This is the same word translated be taken. Its strategic location made it strong hold in 2 Samuel 5:7 and fort indispensable to his security. David in 2 Samuel 5:9. David’s hold was in promised the position of chief captain, Zion, not where Masada is today. Metaphorically, the Lord is said to be much like today’s commanding general, “my fortress” in 2 Samuel 22:2 and in to the first man who would break the Psalms. Word Study #4686. through, enter the city and smite the Jebusites (2 Sam. 5:7, 8; 1 Chron.
12 / 2 Samuel 5; 1 Chronicles 11; 12 11:6). Joab, David’s nephew, was the first to make it through into the city. Apparently, Joab, one of the three sons City of David and Millo (2 Samuel of Zeruiah, David’s sister, and those 5:9): Once King David took up with him entered the fortress city occupancy in the city of Jerusalem, through the water tunnel. Josephus he claimed the ancient area known as Millo, which ran south of the old (Antiquities of the Jews: Book VII, city from Mount Hebron known as Chapter III) wrote that it was Joab the valley of Hinnom, west along who was the first to go over the ditches the Tyropoean Valley and east along that were beneath the citadel, ascend the Kidron Valley. The city of Millo, up and take it. Nineteenth century derived from the Hebrew name explorer, Charles Warren, discovered which means “filling,” referred to a just such a tunnel and shaft in this Jebusite stronghold. David claimed that portion of the city between area that led directly into the city of Mount Hebron and Mount Zion to the Jebusites. construct the palace. This area is also referred to as Zion, meaning “to protect.” Once the city was captured and secured, it became known as “the city of David” (2 Sam. 5:9; 1 Chron. 11:5-7). David immediately took action to further fortify the city and enlarge it (1 Chron. 11:8). It is important to note the words found both in Samuel and Chronicles, “The Lord God of hosts was with him” (2 Sam. 5:10; 1 Chron. 11:9). This was the reason for David’s success. Jerusalem shall forever remain the capital of Israel. It is Jehovah’s city of peace (1 Kings 11:36). In the fall of 1949, the General Assembly of the United Nations began debating how to implement its decision of 29 November 1947 regarding the establishment of Jerusalem as a separated international entity under the auspices of the United Nations. On December 5, 1949, Prime Minister David Ben Gurion stated, “Jewish Jerusalem Lord God of Hosts (2 Samuel 5:10): The biblical narrative makes it quite is an organic, inseparable part of clear that David’s conquests and land the State of Israel, just as it is an acquisition was not of his own doing. integral part of Jewish history The term Lord God of hosts is often and belief. Jerusalem is the heart regarded as an indication of God’s of the State of Israel. We cannot might, as in a military sense, with the imagine, however, that the U. N. heavenly angels as His army. While that would attempt to sever Jerusalem can certainly be a consideration, since the Hebrew word translated hosts refers from the State of Israel or harm to the might of an army, it can also refer Israel’s sovereignty in its eternal to Almighty God from the standpoint capital.” On December 13, 1949 of royalty. God acts as the one who David Ben Gurion declared that rules from His throne, sending His Israel “would not permit the forced host as His emissaries. As such, though disconnection of Jerusalem from David was the anointed earthly king of Israel.” He requested forthwith that Israel, God was the true King of Israel. the Knesset conduct its sessions
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David’s Reign / 13 in Jerusalem (Statements made by Prime Minister David Ben Gurion on December 5th and 13th 1949; copied from the “Jerusalem Day” 2003). DAVID’S PROSPERITY 2 Samuel 5:11-16 David’s fame and recognition by other countries and foreign kings began to spread rapidly. Hiram, king of Tyre, sent ambassadors to form an alliance with David and Israel. This was an excellent economic and political move for both Hiram and David. Tyre and the Phoenicians needed grain from Israel. During the reign of Solomon this amounted to “twenty thousand measures of wheat for food to his household, and twenty measures of pure oil: thus gave Solomon to Hiram year by year” (1 Kings 5:11). In return, Hiram not only sent David needed building materials, consisting of the beautiful and fragrant cedars of Lebanon, but he also sent the trained artisans to do the skilled labor of carpentry and masonry needed for David’s house (2 Sam. 5:11). This alliance and friendship lasted throughout the life of Hiram with both David and Solomon (1 Kings 5:1). David understood something concerning his kingdom that many leaders both then and now fail to recognize about their place in the world and their authority. David was fully aware “that the Lord had established him king over Israel, and that he had exalted his kingdom for his people Israel’s sake” (2 Sam. 5:12). It was not by his own might, will or wisdom, but it was in God’s plan; therefore, it was by God’s might, will and wisdom that David was successful. Here is yet another example of the godly character traits that made David a man after God’s own heart. He gave God all the credit for his life. Here is also a reminder of the humbleness of the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who patiently did the Father’s will and has now been highly exalted above every name, king and potentate. One by one every knee will bow and every tongue shall confess that Jesus is the Christ to the glory of God the Father (Phil. 2:5-11; 1 Tim. 6:15, 16). Every leader, from the local officials all the way to the presidents, prime ministers and kings, need to realize and acknowledge that they are first and foremost responsible to Almighty God. Many treaties and alliances, which were made during this time, were often sealed by the marriage of the king’s daughter. This practice likely resulted in David’s taking more concubines and wives. In biblical times a concubine was a woman lawfully married to a man. However, her relationship was subordinate to the regular wife. There was no moral disgrace in being a concubine. The Law of Moses provided for them (Ex. 21:7-11; Deut. 21:10-14). They enjoyed the right of lawful cohabitation and their children were regarded as legitimate heirs, after the children of the first wife. Several well-known men in the Old Testament had concubines, Abraham (Gen. 25:6), Jacob (Gen. 35:22), Gideon (Judges 8:31) and perhaps with the greatest number was Solomon (1 Kings 11:3). The list given in 2 Samuel 5:13-16 needs to be read with 2 Samuel 3:2-5, 1 Chronicles 3:1-9 and 1 Chronicles 14:3-7 to have the complete list of David’s wives and children. The first son was Amnon, which means “faithful.” His mother was Ahinoam (a-hin’-o-am) a Jezreelitess. David married her while on the run from Saul in the wilderness of Paran (1 Sam. 25:43). The second
14 / 2 Samuel 5; 1 Chronicles 11; 12 son was Chileab, which means “like the father.” He is called Daniel, which means, “judge of God,” in Custom and Curse of Harems, 1 Chronicles 3:1. He is only mentioned (2 Samuel 5:13): Among the sur by name in these two passages. His rounding nations, it was a usual mother was Abigail the Carmelitess. custom for eastern monarchs to have Her name means, “source of joy.” She harems, composed of several wives was the wife of foolish Nabal. Upon and concubines. The difference Nabal’s death by the hand of God, between a legal wife and a concubine had to do with social status. If a man David took Abigail to be his wife. was prohibited from taking a wife Ahinoam and Abigail were the only from a lower degree of social status, two wives named that came with such as a slave, then he would have David to Hebron (2 Sam. 2:1, 2). The marriage-like relationships with other four wives named were taken such women in a lower form of some time during the seven and a marriage. She had to conform to the half years that David reigned from man exclusively, and she generally had lesser rights than legal wives. Hebron. The third son was Absalom. David’s practice of marrying His name means “my father is peace.” many wives and taking additional His mother was Maacah (ma’-a-ka). concubines had actually been a She was also the mother of Tamar, violation of a divine decree in who is the only named daughter of the Law of Moses (Deut. 17:17). David. There were at least ten, both When Israel began being ruled by men and women, with this name in monarchs, there was the tendency of the kings to practice polygamy the Old Testament, which means “pressure.” Maacah was the daughter of Talmai, king of Geshur, a district of Syria on the east side of the Sea of Galilee. Today this area is called the Golan Heights. Absalom fled to his grandfather at Geshur during the time of his rebellion against his father (2 Sam. 13:37, 38). The fourth son was Adonijah (ad-o-ni-ja), which means “my Lord is God.” His mother was Haggith (hag’-ith). Nothing more is known of her. The fifth son was Shephatiah (shef’a-ti-a), which means “Jehovah is judge.” His mother was Abital. They are only mentioned here and in 1 Chronicles 3:3. The sixth son was Ithream (ith’re-am), which means “excellence of people.” His mother was Eglah. They, too, are only mentioned here and in 1 Chronicles 3:3. The four sons of Bath-sheba are named. The first is named Shammua (sha-mu’a) which means “renowned.” In 1 Chronicles 3:5 he is called Shimea (shim’e-a). The second is named Shobab (sho-bab), which means “rebellious.” The third is named Nathan, which means “giver.” He is named in the lineage of Christ through Heli and Mary (Luke 3:31). His family is also mentioned as mourning over Him “whom they have pierced” (Zech. 12:10). The fourth is named Solomon, which means “peaceful.” 1 Chronicles 3:6-8 lists nine more sons, but their mother’s names are not given. They are “Ibhar (ibhar), which means “Jehovah chooses”; Elishua (el’i-shu’a), which means “God of riches”; Elpalet (el-pa’let), which means “God of deliverance”; Nogah (no’-gah), which means “brightness”; Nepheg (ne’feg), which means “to spring”; Japhia (ja-fi’a), which means “bright”; Elishama (e-lish’ama), which means “God has
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David’s Reign / 15 heard”; Eliada (e-li’a-da), which means “God is knowing”; and Eliphelet (e-lif’alet), which means “God of deliverance.” Eliphelet and Nogah are not included in 2 Samuel, which preserved only the names of surviving sons. This makes a total of nineteen sons and one daughter that are named. However, 1 Chronicles 3:9 states there were sons born to David’s concubines and 2 Samuel 5:13 and 1 Chronicles 14:3 also state that David had daughters. Although they are not named, again, it is clear that as David’s kingdom grew stronger and was secured, his sons assisted him in the administration of the daily affairs. “And the sons of David were chief about the king” (1 Chron. 18:17). DAVID’S MILITARY SUCCESS 2 Samuel 5:17-25 When word reached the Philistines that David was anointed king over all Israel, they immediately launched a military campaign. The Philistines The Philistines (2 Samuel 5:17): The Philistines were an ancient nation of pitched their camp in the valley of inhabitants who occupied the areas Rephaim. This valley runs southwest between the southern Mediterranean from Jerusalem and joins the valley Sea and the coastal regions of the of Elah. David, as he had done in the land of Canaan. Their principle past, inquired of the Lord as to the cities along the coast were Ashdod, Lord’s battle plans. David continued Ekron, Ashkelon, Gath and Gaza. to be after God’s own heart. Even with Historically, they existed during the time of Abraham and endured until all the military forces he now had sometime prior to or during the fall under his command, he did not rely on of Judah by Nebuchadnezzar of his military knowledge. The Lord was Babylon in 586 BC. The Philistines Israel’s and David’s true commander were a constant and recurring in chief. The Lord assured David that threat to Israel for many years. The He would deliver the Philistines into constant threat to the Hebrew people his hands. Knowing the past history, continued until David was anointed king at Hebron. one would think that the Philistines would have learned their lesson by this time. During the battle that followed at Baal-perazim, Israel’s armies routed the Philistines so Baal-perazim: only 2 Samuel 5:20 and 1 quickly and precisely that they Chronicles 14:11 use this word, referring ran off leaving all their idols to the same event. Baal-perazim is the transliteration of the Hebrew words. It behind. David knew that leaving means “lord of breaks.” Baal sometimes any remnant of idolatry within refers to the false god and sometimes to Israel would come back to haunt a lord, owner or even a husband. The verb the people of God; therefore, he form of perazim means “to break forth or commanded his men to burn all of burst through as when water gushes forth.” them. This was a practice that all So David took the word Baal, meaning the future kings of Israel should “lord,” and perazim, meaning “breaks,” and combined them into one word to name this have followed. significant place. Word Study #1188. The Philistines regrouped and once again entered the
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16 / 2 Samuel 5; 1 Chronicles 11; 12
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Armies Spending Themselves (2 Samuel 5:22): In anticipation of further military confrontation, the Philistine army was deployed in the valley of Rephaim after a smaller contingent had been defeated by the army of Israel at Baal-perazim. In both cases, David made inquiry of the Lord who not only affirmed that David was to confront the enemy, but that the Lord would grant the victory. During the subsequent deployment, the larger number of Philistine troops prepared for another encounter with the Hebrews in an attempt to secure their previous losses. Again, the Lord provided the victory as a result of David’s dependence and obedience to Him.
valley. David again asked the Lord for directions. He did not take an egotistical approach of I did it once, I can do it again. This was a new battle, and David did not hastily return without first seeking the Lord’s will and guidance. There is a valuable lesson to be learned here. We, like David, need to be conscious of who directs our daily lives. David was instructed to circle around behind the Philistine camp. The Lord rustled the top of the trees in such a manner that it served both to disturb the Philistines and tell David when the time was right to attack. Israel’s army smote the Philistines over an area of some thirty miles from Geba to Gazer. David’s patient waiting on the Lord brought about the military success. As a result, his fame began to spread throughout Israel and the surrounding kingdoms.
DAVID’S MIGHTY MEN 1 Chronicles 11:10-47 “These also are the chief of the mighty men whom David had, who strengthened themselves with him in his kingdom, and with all Israel, to make him king, according to the word of the Lord concerning Israel” (1 Chron. 11:10). There is also a list given near the end of David’s reign and life in 2 Samuel 23:8-39. There are a few differences since they were written about thirty years apart and possibly by different writers. When the coronation of David as King over Israel was completed, the writer inserted the names of the heroes under David’s command. This group of men occupy a special place in the history of Israel and the reign of David. Any military leader would be delighted to have such men serving in his ranks. They are all portrayed as being powerful warriors who were ready for battle and did so bravely. Each of the thirty-seven warriors named demonstrated bravery over and above the call of duty. Among these were some special, elite soldiers who were singled out for their acts of courage. They stood by David in good times and bad, to secure the throne and make him king. The first named was Jashobeam (ja-sho’be-am), which means, “the people will return.” He was the commander of captains, and he took a spear and killed three hundred in one battle. Eleazar (e-le-a-zar), which means “God has helped,” routed the Philistines from a barley field in the battle at Pas-dammim. Three of the thirty captains overheard David’s longing for a drink from the wells of Bethlehem. They covertly broke through the Philistine lines and secured water from the well at Bethlehem’s gate. “David would not drink of
David’s Reign / 17 it, but poured it out to the Lord, and said, My God forbid it me, that I should do this thing: shall I drink the blood of these men that have put their lives in jeopardy?” (1 Chron. 11:18, 19). Abishai (a-bish’a-i), Joab’s brother and David’s nephew were both impulsive and brave. He was always faithful to David. He is mentioned here for taking on three hundred Philistines with only a spear and winning the battle. Benaiah (be-na-ya), which means, “Jehovah has built,” had a long list of outstanding exploits. He defeated two Moabite warriors who were compared to lions. He battled an Egyptian who was seven and a half feet tall. With his staff as a weapon he was able to knock away the enemy’s spear and use it to kill him. The remainder of the chapter is the roll call of the rest of the mighty warriors who had distinguished themselves in service to Israel and David. They are all called “valiant men of the armies” (verse 26). DAVID’S KINGDOM 1 Chronicles 12:1-40 What is the significance of the list given in the chapter? It gives the names and tribes that defected and came to David before the death of Saul. This shows their extraordinary bravery and wisdom in defying Saul and following after God’s anointed. Among these were men and families from Benjamin, Saul’s own tribe. There were mighty men of God who came from the east of Jordan. There was a great number from the tribe of Judah, David’s own people. Manassites joined David when he came into their territory in the company of the Philistine army. Following this is the list of those who came to David while he ruled over only Judah from Hebron. The tribe of Simeon numbered 7,100 defectors to David; a large number of priests and Levites came; 3,000 from the tribe of Benjamin; 20,800 Ephraimites; 18,000 Manassites; a large army with 200 captains from the tribe of Issachar; 50,000 from Zebulun; 38,000 from Naphtali; 28,600 from Dan; 40,000 from Asher; and 120,000 from the tribes across the Jordan, Reuben, Gad and Manasseh. CONCLUSION 2 Samuel 5; 1 Chronicles 11, 12 David was rewarded for his godly patience. His patience was learned through much tribulation. Jesus has promised blessings upon those who wait patiently. There is comfort and hope found in godly patience that is found nowhere else (Rom. 15:4). Children of God need to add it to their faith (2 Peter 1:5-8). David’s life was neither barren nor unfruitful, and neither will ours be if we follow his example. Two of David’s sons, born of Bath-sheba in Jerusalem, became prominent in Scripture—Solomon, who followed David on the throne, and Nathan. There were twenty-one kings and one queen who sat on the throne of Judah who descended from Solomon. However, because of his sins, Jehoiachin’s seed was cut off (Jer. 22:24-30; 36:30). The line of Solomon was lost and taken up by Nathan (Luke 3:1, 31). Jesus is the only rightful heir to David’s throne. This is the greatest blessing God gave to David.