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April 7, 2025

Bible Survey: 2 Samuel

by Jason Neill

Scripture reading: 2 Samuel 1; 5-7; 11

Originally part of a single book, 1 and 2 Samuel were later separated into two volumes. The second book centers mainly on the life of David, whose long and difficult journey to the throne is marked by numerous challenges. After years of waiting, David faces constant pursuit from King Saul, who is determined to take his life. As he navigates a series of obstacles, David’s path to kingship remains fraught with difficulties—and the opening chapters of 2 Samuel are no exception.

In Chapters 1–4, David faces opposition from one of King Saul’s sons, Ish-Bosheth. During this time, David is crowned king over Hebron, where he reigns for seven years (see 2:11). The battle for the throne and control over all of Israel continues for those seven years. In Chapters 5–7, after these tumultuous years, David finally ascends to the throne, ruling over all of Israel (see Chapter 5). The author of 2 Samuel notes an important detail about David’s reign: 'David became more and more powerful, because the Lord God Almighty was with him' (2 Samuel 5:10, NIV). This important truth will be discussed in greater detail later on.

Chapters 8–10 describe the expansion of David’s rule. Chapters 11–14 recount the story of David’s downfall, particularly his affair with Bathsheba. Chapters 15–18 address the troubles within David’s household, which arose as a consequence of his actions. In Chapters 19–20, David returns to the throne, and in Chapters 21–24, the book concludes with his final words and a record of his early deeds.

Authorship and date. Please see the blog post on 1 Samuel.

Jesus in 2 Samuel. In 2 Samuel 7, God establishes a covenant with King David, a key moment in the Bible that helps us better understand the New Testament (see Psalm 110:1; Matthew 1:1; 15:22; 20:30; 22:44; Luke 1:26-33; 3; Romans 1:3; Revelation 22:16). In this covenant, God promises David five things. First, David’s name will be great—a promise fulfilled both during his lifetime and throughout history, as David is still regarded as one of the greatest kings. Second, David would have rest, experiencing peace from enemy attacks. Third, David would have a house, which refers primarily to his dynasty. In other words, someone from David’s family line would continue to rule Israel. Fourth, David would have a throne, meaning that the right to rule would always belong to his descendants. Finally, David would have a kingdom, which includes land and all the responsibilities that come with governing.

The third, fourth, and fifth promises of the covenant find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the true King from David’s line, who will one day reign with justice and righteousness overall (Revelation 20; 22:12-13).

Application. 1 Samuel 18:14 and 2 Samuel 5:10 offer similar insights about David. Take a moment to compare them:

“In everything he did he had great success, because the Lord was with him” (1 Samuel 18:14, NIV).
“And he became more and more powerful, because the Lord God Almighty was with him” (2 Samuel 5:10, NIV).

There’s no doubt that David was a man chosen by God, and this was evident to those around him. They recognized that his success wasn’t the result of his own efforts, but of God’s presence in his life. This serves as a humble reminder for all of us: when we experience success, we must pause and acknowledge that it is through the knowledge, skills, and abilities God has provided that we are able to achieve. This leaves no room for pride.

Are you a skilled worker? Do others admire your work, often impressed by how effortlessly you accomplish tasks with grace? If so, take a moment to give credit where it’s due. Recognize that it is God who has blessed you with those gifts. After all, every good gift comes from above (see James 1:17).