Introduction
Assuming that your sermon will be the first sermon in a new series, briefly summarize what has happened in 1 Samuel before you read from 2 Samuel 1:1–16.
First and second Samuel chronicle the transition of Israel from a loose confederation of tribes ruled by judges to a centralized monarchy. Kingship is the big theme of the book, specifically the kind of king that God’s people needed in order to flourish. The book begins with the request of Hannah and the birth of Samuel; she hoped that he could be a new judge to deliver Israel from the Philistines. While Samuel served in this role, he was also a prophet and he ordained the first king, Saul. Saul was a king who was outwardly impressive, a king like that of the nations, and the Israelites hoped that he would lead them against the Philistines and other enemies. Initially, he had some success in battle, but his refusal to obey the Lord resulted in his downfall and eventual defeat.
The people needed a king who obeys God’s law, not a king who does as he pleases.
Another king was then chosen by the Lord, David. He was eager to please God and he rose to prominence when he defeated Goliath. Thereafter, Saul became jealous. Unwilling to pass the kingdom to David and help him in his rule, he clung to power and tried his best to kill David. There are twelve occasions at least where he did this. This forced David to flee and live as a fugitive, on the run with his band of followers. During this time, he protected God’s people as he engaged the Philistines and the Amalekites in battle. He also remained loyal to Saul, refusing to harm him despite several opportunities. When Saul finally dies in battle at the end of 1 Samuel, the stage is set for David to officially become king.
The way of the wicked
Explain: why is there a division between 1 and 2 Samuel?
Explain: what are we meant to know as we read 2 Samuel 1:1–16?
Explain: how can we be sure that the Amalekite messenger is lying?
Explain: who were the Amalekites? What was the aim of the Amalekite messenger? What did he think of David?
The loyalty and goodness of God’s King
Explain: how is David’s response different from that of other kings/politicians?
Explain: how did David think about Saul; was he his enemy?
Explain: how do the tears and mourning of David prefigure the Lord Jesus Christ? What does he show us about who Jesus is?
The justice of God’s King
Explain: why is it surprising (from a worldly perspective) for David to kill the messenger?
Explain: what do the actions of David show about his understanding of who the enemies truly are?
Explain: how does the death of the Amalekite show the justice of David? How do the actions of David prefigure the work of Jesus Christ?
Explain/Apply: what is the promise which Peter proclaimed to those who killed the Lord’s Anointed?
Apply: rejoice/marvel in the beauty of Jesus Christ and the work which he has done so that we can be forgiven.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank you for the goodness of our King Jesus Christ. Thank you that we can trust him, that we can know he is concerned for your people and loyal to your will. Please fill us with your Spirit so that we may grow in our love for you and delight all the more in what your Son has done for us. Amen.
1 After the death of Saul, when David had returned from striking down the Amalekites, David remained two days in Ziklag.