Today you should read: 2 Samuel 5
Let’s get right to it! Ask yourself, “Who is most significant in 2 Samuel 5?”
As thoughtful Christians, we must study 2 Samuel 5 with a laser-sharp focus on one man: Jesus. Although the name “Jesus Christ” is not mentioned in this passage, we do know that all of scripture is meant to bear witness about Him (see John 5:39, Luke 24:27,44). Today we have the privilege to consider how the life of king David foreshadows the life of Jesus Christ. Take time now to carefully examine this chapter while keeping these points in mind:
- (v1-3) “all the tribes of Israel came to David.. and they anointed David king over Israel.” David clears the enmity between the tribes of Judah and Israel into one unified kingdom under his reign. In a similar but much greater way, Jesus Christ brings lasting unity to God’s people whether Jew or Gentile under his Lordship (1Cor. 12:12-13, Col. 3:11).
- (v4-5) “David was thirty years old when he began to reign… at Jerusalem he reigned over all Israel and Judah thirty-three years.” Wow. This clearly points us to Christ. With incredible precision, we see that a pattern which God set forth in David eventually marks the life of the Messiah. Jesus begins his ministry when he is thirty years old (Luke 3:23).
- (v10) “David became greater and greater, for the LORD, the God of hosts, was with him.” This specific way of describing the growth of David prepares us for the way that the New Testament will describe Jesus. The messiah is exceedingly greater than David for while David was an adult, Jesus became greater through the favor of God while only a child: “and the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon him” (see Luke 2:40).
- (v19,23) “and David inquired of the LORD…” David maintained regular communication with God. When he was troubled or needed guidance he poured out his heart in prayer. So also Jesus Christ, with far greater intimacy and trust, maintained perfect fellowship with his heavenly father. Jesus remained in diligent prayer. (Mark 1:35, Luke 5:16, 6:12, John 17:1-26, Luke 22:42-44).
Even though David serves as a model king and brings blessing to the nation, his life is by no means perfect. In fact, we see his sin even in the midst of his greatness because in verse 13 we learn that he takes more wives and concubines. Deuteronomy 17:17 warns against a king who attempts to increase wives. Sadly this sinfulness will foretell of the ugly sin between David and Bathsheba in 2 Samuel 11. Therefore, David’s flawed kingship, blemished by sin, points us to our need of a perfect sinless king (2Cor. 5:21). Our Davidic king endures forever. Thankfully, where David fails, Jesus succeeds; where David appears great, Jesus is found to be far greater!
In your heart praise the King of Kings today; may we be thankful and joyfully proclaim His perfect eternal reign!
Posted by: Taylor Wehrle, College Intern
JumpstartCPC.com 
Great job T. Wehrle! Very insightful post showing the parallels between King David and our King of Kings and Lord of Lords, Jesus Christ!
God bless you as you depart Lexington and move to Washington, D.C. We pray God’s richest blessings upon you as you grow in your ministry. We will miss you!
Thanks Taylor. I love verse 24, “As soon as you hear the sound marching in the tops of the balsam trees, move quickly, because that will mean the Lord has gone out in front of you.” How cool to actually HEAR the Lord fighting your battles for you!
Two other key takeaways for me:
1. Although I faced a similar situation in the past, this doesn’t guarantee God now expects me to respond in an identical manner (v. 23).
2. We still have a responsibility to LISTEN and remain “whisper close” during the execution (obedience) phase (v 24).
I echo Mike’s comments. Thanks for your service Taylor and continued blessings brother!
Great thoughts and parallels Taylor!
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