David further demonstrates that the kingship of Israel is more than a matter of earthly rule, but of a spiritual one primarily. In chapter 6, we are reminded of the immense holiness attributed to the presence of God. Even the very well-intentioned act of preventing the Ark of the Covenant from falling and touching it resulted in death for Uzzah (6:7). Misinterpreting David’s genuine worship to the Lord as lewd, deplorable acts instead resulted in barrenness for Michal (6:23). All of this was in efforts to return the Ark to Jerusalem, thereby acknowledging the importance of the presence of God when leading His covenant people. Unlike other earthly kingdoms, holiness comes with the territory as a requirement for this kingdom.
In what starts off as an admirable sentiment by David to build the LORD a house, what results is one of the most important covenants that ratifies the history and path to man’s salvation. Instead of building God an earthly house, the LORD promises to build a house for David that will rule the kingdom forever. A descendent of David would always be sitting on the throne regardless of the time period. Here we see God’s grace furthered to the people of Israel by prophesying not only everlasting blessing as with the Abrahamic covenant, but an everlasting monarchy. While it may have been both exhilarating and elusive for David to consider the practical implications of this, we as readers on this side of history know exactly what this covenant implies and who it ultimately speaks of. Who better to be king for all eternity than God himself? It is because of this very promise that both the gospels of Matthew and Luke begin their accounts with a genealogy of Jesus that links his ancestry to David. The author reinforces the reality that the dominion over God’s people is about more than merely order and earthly standards. To be a righteous king was a spiritual matter that required him to be set apart, and this covenant guarantees just that.
Reflect
David’s response to God’s covenant is one of great thanksgiving and humility. As you read over his prayer in vv. 18-29, call to mind the many displays of God’s power and faithfulness in your own life. How have we seen God’s promises fulfilled as a result of His grace conveyed to us through these covenants? What do we have to be thankful for by seeing Jesus sit on the throne of grace?
Connect
1 I will sing of the steadfast love of the Lord, forever;
with my mouth I will make known your faithfulness to all generations.
2 For I said, “Steadfast love will be built up forever;
in the heavens you will establish your faithfulness.”
3 You have said, “I have made a covenant with my chosen one;
I have sworn to David my servant:
4 ‘I will establish your offspring forever,
and build your throne for all generations.’” Selah
5 Let the heavens praise your wonders, O Lord,
your faithfulness in the assembly of the holy ones!
6 For who in the skies can be compared to the Lord?
Who among the heavenly beings is like the Lord,
7 a God greatly to be feared in the council of the holy ones,
and awesome above all who are around him?
8 O Lord God of hosts,
who is mighty as you are, O Lord,
with your faithfulness all around you?
– Psalm 89:1-8
– Rev. Nameun Cho
