Journey Through The Scriptures

David, Part II

Lesson 3: David Establishes His Kingdom

(Scripture to Read: 2 Samuel 5:1–8:18)

The death of Saul’s son, Ish-Bosheth, meant the path to the throne of Israel was now wide open for David. Even the northern tribes that had been loyal to Saul came and humbly acknowledged David’s right to rule. So for the third time, David was anointed as king of Israel. Chapters 5–10 of 2 Samuel tell the story of God’s continual blessing on David and the prosperity of his kingdom. David’s first act as king was a unifying one — the selection of Jerusalem to be his capital.

Jerusalem had been a Jebusite fortress since Joshua’s day (Joshua 15:63). Its defenders mocked David, but his army routed the arrogant Jebusites and he claimed Jerusalem as “the City of David” (2 Samuel 5:7). The military victories did not stop there, as David also defeated the Philistines and other enemies. Perhaps even more important, David brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, establishing the city as Israel’s spiritual, as well as political, capital. God made a covenant to establish David’s line forever, and David responded with a prayer of praise and thanksgiving. David built a great empire for Israel and for the Lord.


Study Questions

  1. Why did David rout the various nations mentioned in these chapters?
  2. What was the significance of David’s bringing the ark to Jerusalem?
  3. Why did God give David His promise to establish David’s kingly line forever?
  4. How will God’s promise to David of a king to sit on the Davidic throne ultimately be fulfilled?

Something to Think About

David experienced God’s faithfulness to keep the promises He made. Is there a promise in the Bible that is especially meaningful to you? Review it, and then offer a prayer of thanksgiving and praise to our great God, whose promises never fail!

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