A nation rocked, a family torn asunder, a father and son estranged, a royal heir in exile. Thus 2 Samuel 14 begins. And though David’s heart inclines toward his son, his actions do not. Will the machinations of David’s court bring about reconciliation? Or will we see the parable of the Prodigal Son by way of contrast? Join us as we are frustrated by the events of this chapter and reflect on how it drives us to a different son of David.

The rape of Tamar and the murder of Ammon. A dark tale, a difficult text, an intense look at the depth and extent of human depravity as the consequences of David’s sin begin to work themselves out in his household. How does a text like this work in tandem with Romans 8 and Psalm 23 to reveal to us the beauty of God’s sovereignty? How does the blackness of sin highlight the brilliance of mercy? Join us as we read and discuss the next chapter of 2 Samuel and yearn together for the return of Christ.

What David did displeased the LORD. But the next chapter begins with grace, as the LORD takes initiative and sends Nathan the prophet to David. How does a consideration of God’s ways with David help us to frame our own reflections on sin, its consequences, and our response to conviction? Join us as we consider 2 Samuel 12!

David the consummate diplomat, leader, and general: loyal to allies, sensitive to his men, alert to the enemy, successful in war. David the consummate politician: suspicious of loyal servants, corrupt in his dealings, unbridled in his passions. David at his best, David at his worst. What will become of God’s king, and of his people? Join us for 2 Samuel 10–11, and an ominous “to be continued…”

David, a ruler out of Judah, provides security and reigns justly over a united kingdom, subduing Israel’s enemies on every side. Though some of his actions rightly give us pause, the clear message is that David, flaws and all, is a king after God’s own heart, who shepherds his people and gives him the glory. More than this, it is through David here that we see the Lord bringing his land promises to Abraham to fulfillment, tying together two covenants. How then will David’s faithfulness to a covenant with Jonathan compare with the Lord’s faithfulness to his people? Join us as we consider these next two chapters of 2 Samuel.

Join us in a riveting discussion as we explore the Bible’s most fascinating turn of phrase in 2 Samuel 7. What begins as a noble desire to build a house for the Lord takes an unexpected turn as God flips the script, promising an everlasting dynasty for David. Consider with us the profound significance of this covenant, the anticipation of an eternal reign, and the profound implications for New Testament history. Don’t miss this deep dive into 2 Samuel 7, where earthly aspirations meet divine promises, shaping the very fabric of God’s redemptive plan.

As David continues to consolidate his new reign, he attempts to move the ark to his new capitol. But an aborted first attempt that reminds left and right of the Philistines ends in disaster! How will the new king respond to God’s wrath? Does he repent and walk in new obedience, or do we have Saul 2.0?

In 2 Samuel 5 David is finally recognized as king by the northern tribes. Though deep divisions remain and shadows of future sin fall across the page, the dominant note is a recognition of God’s faithful presence with David and with the nation as the Lord blesses David for his people’s good. A new capital is established and the Philistines are finally defeated by a king of Israel—not once, but twice—as David contrasts with Saul in his reliance on the Lord. As David continues to establish his reign what will become of his kingdom? Will he rule as the Lord directs, or will he become a run-of-the-mill Ancient Near Eastern monarch?

Tonight we close a chapter on David’s long rise as the last of his rivals for the throne of Israel are removed. In the thick of schemes and statecraft, polygamy and politics, conspiracy and murder, the grand sweep reveals God’s careful and decisive providence in moments when his absence seems most keenly felt. But cracks in the new administration and its policy begin to show even as David’s grip on the nation consolidates. As we look forward to David’s accession in the chapters to follow, we cannot help but ask: will he prove a better king than Saul? God help us!