After the people of Israel had resettled back in their homeland and prospered, they looked for a king to lead and unite them. God chose a young shepherd boy by the name of David to guide His people. It would be many years of waiting and maturing for David between the initial promise of a kingdom and its fulfillment. Once David’s throne was established and the nation made secure, he wanted to build a permanent temple for God’s presence to dwell because they were still using the tabernacle from the nation’s early days in the wilderness. This is response God sent to David.
This is what the Lord Almighty says: I took you from the pasture, from tending the flock, and appointed you ruler over my people Israel. 9 I have been with you wherever you have gone, and I have cut off all your enemies from before you. Now I will make your name great, like the names of the greatest men on earth. 10 And I will provide a place for my people Israel and will plant them so that they can have a home of their own and no longer be disturbed. Wicked people will not oppress them anymore, as they did at the beginning 11 and have done ever since the time I appointed leaders[a] over my people Israel. I will also give you rest from all your enemies.
“‘The Lord declares to you that the Lord himself will establish a house for you: 12 When your days are over and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, your own flesh and blood, and I will establish his kingdom… Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me[b]; your throne will be established forever.’” 2 Sam 7:8-12, 16
This is one of my favorite of the covenants because it so clearly shows the character of God. He begins by reminding David of His presence in the past and His faithfulness in keeping His promises. God tells David He will continue to provide by establishing his reputation and giving the nation peace. Here’s what I find fascinating: remember David is asking God for permission to build God a house. God responds by saying He will build a house and legacy for David. And then He goes on to promise David that his lineage and rule will last forever – He promises eternal kingship to David’s line. The generosity and kindness of God is overwhelming. David sought to honor God by giving Him a home, but what God promises instead is that He will come to His people through David.
Jesus is the descendant of David whose throne will be eternal. Many prophecies in the Old Testament refer to the King from David’s line who will rule in righteousness and peace.
In those days and at that time
I will make a righteous Branch sprout from David’s line;
he will do what is just and right in the land.
In those days Judah will be saved
and Jerusalem will live in safety.
This is the name by which it will be called:
The Lord Our Righteous Savior.’ Jer 33:15-16
In his earthly ministry, Jesus ushered in the Kingdom of God, fulfilling all the signs associated with kingship foretold by the prophets. He healed diseases, gave sight to the blind, encouraged the oppressed, raised the dead to life, freed captives, and stirred hearts towards repentance. The domain of Christ’s kingdom is found in the hearts and souls of all those who follow after Him and have accepted His salvation. But the prophets also speak of the day coming when His kingdom will be a physical reality on earth. In that day, God will wipe away the curse of sin and all will be perfect and restored. We’re told that peace and justice will be the scepter by which Christ will reign over the redeemed and perfected earth.
He raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way. Eph 1:20-23
Blessings to you,
Sarah
anordinarymiracleday 