Last Words...Mighty Men
II Samuel 23
May 6, 2001

            You almost get the sense that the ancient historian is scrambling to make sure he leaves no stone unturned.  But we can be assured that he is supplying only those details that will help the people of God through the ages.  Truly the Scriptures in the Old Testament are given for our instruction and profit even as the New Testament.

            Early in David's life we are impressed by his rugged faith.  In the middle we are distracted by his clear-cut failures.  But in the latter years we must be encouraged by his unflagging zeal, his dogged perseverance, and his radiant faith in spite of lean times.  What carried him through?  We could identify many internal characteristics, but outside of David, there were two ever present helps that kept David going:  God's prophetic word (promises) and God's people who partnered with him.  We might personalize it like this:  God's Word and God's people are God's provision to help us persevere.  Surely we can add to this, i.e. the Holy Spirit, but let us focus on these two encouragements.

 

I. God's Word - With all its promises and prophetic certainties

            e.g. Nature of ancient kingdoms (take a good look at Africa, Balkans, Middle East to get the picture)

1.      Certainty of God's kingdom v. 1-3a, 5

Convergence of David's reign and God's kingdom being manifest.  It was a shadow with substance in Christ identified (v. 1) and His authority (v. 2). "God has said" in v. 3a - That kept his heart steadfast.  Here is not "vision" that sustained him but the divine Word.  God's word is certain.  Verse 5 - the certainty of future kingdom "not a political proposal but a divine certainty."

 

2.      Attractiveness of God's kingdom v. 3b-4

-          Universal "over men" (mankind)

-          Righteous or legitimate

-          Permeated with holy fear

-          Refreshes and revitalizes all under this rule v. 4

Who is this ruler?  David??  I think not; rather it is Messiah.  "He speaks prophetically of the Final Representative of his dynasty" (Davis 246).  There is a hunger on David's part for this rule - and should it not be for us as well?  This kept the disciples going and early believers and believers in our own day.  The King is attractive - His rule is attractive.  Let us pray, "Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven."

           

3.      Exclusiveness of the kingdom v. 6-7

Not all delight in the king's rule so His kingdom will involve "restoration and destruction both salvation and judgment" (Davis 248).  Not all are a part of the kingdom (Matthew 7:21-23).

 

II. God's people who partnered with Him

1.      Unusual, inspiring accomplishments

2.      Instruments of the Lord v. 10, 12

Point more to the Lord than the men. 

3.      Service that leads to worship v. 13-17

4.      Servant friends who stand with us v. 18

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