2 Samuel 7
David intended to make Jerusalem the central place of religious worship by building a permanent Temple for the Lord. But the Lord had other plans. David is not to build a Temple. Instead the Lord builds David’s house. The Lord made a covenant with David in which He promised him an eternal dynasty. In addition, He made the King the center of religious and civil culture and Jerusalem the center of worship and religious life. The relationship of Yahweh and the King would be as Father to son. This indicates that the Lord had shifted His method of dealing with Israel to dealing with the King. The King was now the mediator of the covenant between Yahweh and man. He must walk in obedience to the Lord in order to insure the blessings of peace and security on Israel. Otherwise both he and the nation would be disciplined by the Lord.
This new relationship is an example of God’s lovingkindness for it prophesies the mission of the Messiah. He is not only the eternal King who descends from David’s dynasty, but He is also the mediator of the covenant between Yahweh and His people. Although the Kings of Israel obeyed the Lord imperfectly and led the Israelites astray, the Messiah is not like them. His obedience is perfect. Thus, His perfect obedience brings God’s favor and blessing upon all who belong to His kingdom. His perfect obedience also serves as an example to His people which helps them to follow in His lead and to walk in obedience. As we follow Christ’s lead we will be blessed. When we fail to do so we will be disciplined. Such discipline is designed to help us mature in our faith as well as deepen our fellowship with Almighty God.
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