College Press Bible Study Textbook Series
2 Samuel 23 - Introduction
A DIGEST OF CHAPTER 23
David's last song. David described himself as a sweet psalmist of Israel (2 Samuel 23:1). He was just that. He gave Israel many of her outstanding spiritual songs and found expression for many thoughts of his mind in poetic structure which could be set to music.
David's mighty men. What David accomplished was not done by his own power alone. Men of great ability had joined themselves to him. They had fought many campaigns together. It is fitting that their names should be mentioned as the final days of David are described.
LESSONS FOR LEARNING
1.
God spake by men. David said, The spirit of the Lord spake by me (2 Samuel 23:2). This is one of the clearest claims for inspiration made anywhere in these books. David did not speak by his own will alone. God's spirit guided him. He was inspired.
2.
Many hands make light tasks. A careful reading of the epistles of Paul will reveal that he had a galaxy of helpers to assist him in his preaching of the gospel. Some of them are well knownTimothy, Titus, Silas, Barnabas, and John Mark. Others are mentioned only brieflyEpaphras, Epaphroditus, Tertius, Tychicus, and Urbane. These helpers of Paul's number into scores. David had his helpers, too. A long list of them impresses us with the fact that God's work is accomplished largely by cooperative efforts. Men of like precious faith should bind themselves together to go forward for Christ.
CHAPTER 23 IN REVIEW
1.
What titles did David ascribe to himself?
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2.
Was David inspired of God?
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3.
By what figure did he refer to God?
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4.
To what did David compare a just ruler?
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5.
To what Psalm may these words be compared?
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6.
How many mighty men did David have?
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7.
Where was the well from which three of his men brought him water?
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8.
Which soldier killed a lion in a pit?
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9.
Who fought so long that his hand clung to his sword?
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10.
Was Uriah one of these mighty men?
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