Give Us a King, Volume 5

A Study in 1 and 2 Samuel

What does the history of Israel’s kings have to do with the Christian life today? You might be surprised! The Old Testament books of 1 and 2 Samuel trace the development of Israel’s monarchy from its establishment under the prophet Samuel through the reigns of the nation’s first kings, Saul and David. Yet as memorable as these stories may be, an even greater story lies at their heart: that of the true King, “great David’s greater Son,” who would one day come to establish His throne and rule in our hearts forever.

In volume five of this series, Alistair Begg looks at the start of David’s earthly reign. After mourning Saul and Jonathan’s deaths, David ascended to his throne, extending love to his enemies and promising faithfulness in return—while his men often did the opposite. Yet even after he established Zion, defeated the Philistines, and returned the ark to Jerusalem, the cracks in his dynasty would soon begin to show.