2 Samuel - 11 Sessions
The book of 2 Samuel traces the rise and reign of King David, highlighting both his triumphs and failures, as it underscores God’s faithfulness and the unfolding of His redemptive plan. As Bible scholar Eugene Merrill notes, "David's kingship points beyond itself to the eternal throne of Christ, reminding us that God’s covenant promises are sure, even when human leaders falter."
1: "The King is Dead. Long Live the King!"- 2 Samuel 1
2: "A Kingdom United"- 2 Samuel 5–6
3: "God’s Promise: An Eternal Kingdom"- 2 Samuel 7
4: "Victory on Every Side"- 2 Samuel 8
5: "Kindness Beyond Expectations"- 2 Samuel 9
6: "The Fall of a King"- 2 Samuel 11
7: "A Confrontation and a Confession"- 2 Samuel 12
8: "The Consequences of Sin"- 2 Samuel 13–15
9: "The Pain of Betrayal"- 2 Samuel 16–18
10: "Restoration and Return"- 2 Samuel 19
11: "A Costly Mistake"- 2 Samuel 24
Introduction to the Study of 2 Samuel
The book of 2 Samuel is a remarkable narrative in the Old Testament, chronicling the life and reign of King David. It bridges the gap between the rule of Saul and the rise of the monarchy that would forever shape Israel's history. In this book, we witness David’s journey from the young shepherd who defeated Goliath to the flawed but faithful king who united Israel. Through his highs and lows, David's story reminds us of God’s unwavering faithfulness and His ability to use imperfect people to fulfill His divine purposes. As we explore this book, we’ll see not only the challenges David faced but also how God's grace and mercy were ever-present, even in the midst of David’s mistakes.
As Christians today, we may sometimes wonder about the relevance of the Old Testament. We might ask, "How does a book like 2 Samuel connect with our lives in the 21st century?" Yet, it’s essential to remember that the Old Testament is full of stories that point to the same God who guides us today. Jesus Himself referred to the Hebrew Scriptures as being crucial to understanding His mission (Luke 24:44). When we study books like 2 Samuel, we don’t just look back at a story of a king; we learn about God's character—His justice, His mercy, and His provision. As theologian and preacher John Stott once said, "The Old Testament, like the New, is the Word of God, and it reveals the nature of God’s redemptive work in Christ."
For us, especially as senior citizens who have walked with God for many years, 2 Samuel offers more than just historical facts. It challenges us to examine our own lives, our relationship with God, and how we respond to His calling. Like David, we too experience victories and defeats, moments of great faith and times of failure. But through it all, we can take comfort in God’s promises, knowing that He remains faithful even when we are not. As we reflect on David’s story, may we be reminded of God’s continual work in our lives, leading us, forgiving us, and shaping us into the people He has called us to be.
In 2 Samuel, we also see that David was not just a king; he was a man after God’s own heart (Acts 13:22). His life teaches us that while we may fall short, God's grace and mercy allow us to return to Him and continue fulfilling His purposes. Just as David sought God’s guidance in moments of triumph and failure, we are invited to do the same. And as we open the pages of 2 Samuel, may we, like David, seek to know and follow the heart of God in every season of our lives.