In the books of 1 and 2 Samuel, this is the only time that the key events in Israel’s history are reprised.1 The Lord’s past dealings with David served to assure him that the Lord would continue to treat him favourably and do good for him.2 Typically in the ancient Near East, a king would build a temple so as to procure favour and enjoy continued blessing from a god.3 The Lord promises David that he will continue to enjoy blessing without any need for him to build a temple.4
8 Now, therefore, thus you shall say to my servant David, ‘Thus says the LORD of hosts, I took you from the pasture, from following the sheep, that you should be prince over my people Israel.