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The Last Words and the Altar: A Kingdom Concludes The Samuel narrative closes with David’s final words, a tribute to his mighty men, and the sobering account of the census and its consequences. In a climactic scene on the threshing floor in Jerusalem, judgment gives way to mercy as an altar is raised where the … Continued
Justice, Structure, and Song: Blood-Guilt and the Prayer of a King These chapters begin the four-part epilogue of 2 Samuel, arranged in a deliberate chiastic structure rather than chronological order. In Chapter 21, unresolved blood-guilt from Saul’s house demands justice, and we revisit key decisions that shaped David’s reign. Chapter 22 then shifts dramatically into … Continued
Return, Rivalry, and Restlessness: A Kingdom Reunited—or Divided? After Absalom’s death, David seeks to return to Jerusalem and restore unity to a fractured nation. Old tensions resurface as Joab fights to maintain military control, Sheba sparks a brief but dangerous rebellion, and scattered loyalties threaten the fragile peace. Amid the political maneuvering and emotional aftermath, … Continued
Creation, Covenant, and the Breath of Life (Genesis 2:4–17) As Absalom’s rebellion gains momentum, David flees Jerusalem and a web of loyalty, betrayal, and political maneuvering unfolds. Trusted advisors choose sides, strategies collide, and the conflict crescendos in the forest of Ephraim with the tragic death of the king’s son. These chapters reveal the cost … Continued
Violence, Vengeance, and a Fractured House: Tamar, Amnon, and Absalom These difficult and dramatic chapters expose the unraveling of David’s household. The assault of Tamar by Amnon, Absalom’s calculated revenge, and Joab’s political maneuvering reveal a kingdom torn by sin and silence. Through parable, intrigue, and rising rebellion, we see both the tragic consequences of … Continued