Introduction to the second book of Samuel
The 10th Book of the Bible: The Reign of David
The Second Book of Samuel recounts the reign of King David, first over the tribe of Judah and then over all of Israel.
Samuel himself had already passed away by the time these events took place; the book was likely written by one of the prophets, such as
Nathan or Gad.
Although David is described as a man after God’s own heart, the Second Book of Samuel does not spare David’s character.
He is not only a brilliant hero and victor; his dark sides are also ruthlessly exposed.
What distinguishes David is his willingness to turn back time and again after his mistakes, to repent sincerely, and to humbly acknowledge his faults, no matter what others might think of him.
God makes a new covenant with David. Unlike the covenants with Israel in the Books of Moses, there are no conditions here. One of David’s descendants will receive an eternal kingship, a Savior and Ruler for the world—the Messiah Jesus.
After receiving news of Saul’s death in Hebron, David is anointed king over the tribe of Judah by the men of Judah.
Seven and a half years later, envoys from the other eleven tribes of the people came to David in Hebron and anointed him king over all Israel.
The first official act of his reign mentioned in the text is the conquest of Jerusalem from the Jebusites, who had not been driven out during the initial conquest of the land.
There he established his royal seat, thereby making Jerusalem the political capital of the country.
Later, David had the Ark of the Covenant brought to Jerusalem, making the city the religious center of Israel as well.
Through God’s blessing, David wins victory over Israel’s hostile neighboring peoples and brings peace to the land.
But David commits adultery with the wife of one of his men and initially covers up his guilt by ensuring that the man is killed in battle.
Even though David repented for this act and received forgiveness, a difficult time of discipline followed for him—sin always brings consequences into our lives!
David’s own family history ends in moral catastrophes, rape and murder among siblings, open rebellion against his reign…
but read for yourself…
Outline of the Second Book of Samuel:
Chapters 1–4 – News of Saul’s death, David as king of Judah
Chapters 5–10 – David’s reign over Israel
Chapters 11–20 – David’s adultery, murder, and the consequences thereof
Chapters 21–24 – Historical appendices concerning David
Content of the second book Samuel:
2. Samuel chapter 1
2. Samuel chapter 2
2. Samuel chapter 3
2. Samuel chapter 4
2. Samuel chapter 5
2. Samuel chapter 6
2. Samuel chapter 7
2. Samuel chapter 8
2. Samuel chapter 9
2. Samuel chapter 10
2. Samuel chapter 11
2. Samuel chapter 12
2. Samuel chapter 13
2. Samuel chapter 14
2. Samuel chapter 15
2. Samuel chapter 16
2. Samuel chapter 17
2. Samuel chapter 18
2. Samuel chapter 19
2. Samuel chapter 20
2. Samuel chapter 21
2. Samuel chapter 22
2. Samuel chapter 23
2. Samuel chapter 24