In these closing chapters of Samuel we have seen David at war and David in worship; here in this penultimate chapter we see both again, in reverse. The two parts of the chapter together reflect on the Lord’s covenant with David and the success he has brought him in war. Join us as we discuss David giving God the glory, see how this distinguishes him from Saul, and scratch our heads over why Samuel must add one more chapter.

As we continue through the closing chapters of Samuel we encounter a Psalm, also familiar to us as Psalm 18, that bids us reassess David and to frame the whole of his reign in light of God’s favor. How does a chastened yet grace-filled reflection help us to frame our own experience? How does it help highlight for the work of the son of David? Join us as we consider 2 Samuel 22!

Today we look at David’s handling of the consequences of Saul’s sin. There is much to discuss and learn in this chapter.

A return to Jerusalem; a new coup; a powerful general; a wise woman; a list of officials. What do we make of a chapter including such diverse materials? How does it bring David’s story to a conclusion of sorts, and how do we assess the ending? How does it link both backwards and forwards? Join us as we consider 2 Samuel 20.

Absalom’s coup has failed and David’s son is dead, but David continues to be caught between his role as father and his role as king. How can he and the people move forward? Will he resume his reign over the nation, or will it continue to fracture and rebel? And where is God in this picture? Join us as we continue in 2 Samuel!

2 Samuel 18 2 Samuel 18. Forces of father and… read more

2 Samuel 16–17 Absalom’s coup continues. David makes his way… read more

Join us as we continue in 2 Samuel 15, where betrayal, power struggles, and the pursuit of a kingdom collide in a dramatic tale of loyalty and deceit. As David flees a fortress city become a trap, a series of encounters reorients his heart and mine, and the quick-thinking, God-reliant David resurfaces (though yet with faults). What will become of God’s king and God’s people?

The fallout of David’s non-reconciliation begins as Absalom massages the people’s egos and steals their hearts. His conspiracy is broad and deep, and David must respond swiftly for his own safety and that of his followers. In the midst of so much human action, the most unlikely interaction—with a Philistine mercenary!—will reawaken David’s faith and put the Lord’s actions back in the forefront of the narrative. Nevertheless in this section David continues to point us to Jesus primarily by way of contrast. Join us as we begin to consider Absalom’s coup and David’s flight! To be continued…