Menu

2 Samuel 5

BSB

1 Then all the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron and said, “Here we are, your own flesh and blood. 2 Even in times past, while Saul was king over us, you were the one who led Israel out and brought them back. And to you the LORD said, ‘You will shepherd My people Israel, and you will be ruler over them.’" 3 So all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron, where King David made with them a covenant before the LORD. And they anointed him king over Israel. 4 David was thirty years old when he became king, and he reigned forty years. 5 In Hebron he reigned over Judah seven years and six months, and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty-three years over all Israel and Judah. 6 Now the king and his men marched to Jerusalem against the Jebusites who inhabited the land. The Jebusites said to David: “You will never get in here. Even the blind and lame can repel you.” For they thought, “David cannot get in here." 7 Nevertheless, David captured the fortress of Zion (that is, the City of David). 8 On that day he said, “Whoever attacks the Jebusites must use the water shaft to reach the lame and blind who are despised by David. " That is why it is said, “The blind and the lame will never enter the palace." 9 So David took up residence in the fortress and called it the City of David. He built it up all the way around, from the supporting terraces inward. 10 And David became greater and greater, for the LORD God of Hosts was with him. 11 Now Hiram king of Tyre sent envoys to David, along with cedar logs, carpenters, and stonemasons, and they built a palace for David. 12 And David realized that the LORD had established him as king over Israel and had exalted his kingdom for the sake of His people Israel. 13 After he had arrived from Hebron, David took more concubines and wives from Jerusalem, and more sons and daughters were born to him. 14 These are the names of the children born to him in Jerusalem: Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, Solomon, 15 Ibhar, Elishua, Nepheg, Japhia, 16 Elishama, Eliada, and Eliphelet. 17 When the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over Israel, they all went in search of him; but David learned of this and went down to the stronghold. 18 Now the Philistines had come and spread out in the Valley of Rephaim. 19 So David inquired of the LORD, “Should I go up against the Philistines? Will You deliver them into my hand?” “Go,” replied the LORD, “for I will surely deliver the Philistines into your hand." 20 So David went to Baal-perazim, where he defeated the Philistines and said, “Like a bursting flood, the LORD has burst out against my enemies before me.” So he called that place Baal-perazim. 21 There the Philistines abandoned their idols, and David and his men carried them away. 22 Once again the Philistines came up and spread out in the Valley of Rephaim. 23 So David inquired of the LORD, who answered, “Do not march straight up, but circle around behind them and attack them in front of the balsam trees. 24 As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, move quickly, because this will mean that the LORD has marched out before you to strike the camp of the Philistines." 25 So David did as the LORD had commanded him, and he struck down the Philistines all the way from Gibeon to Gezer.

Study Notes — 2 Samuel 5

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Chapter Summary

The chapter begins with the tribes of Israel coming to David at Hebron to anoint him as their king, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:1-5. David then captures Jerusalem, making it his capital, and defeats the Philistines, as recorded in 2 Samuel 5:6-25. The chapter also notes David's reliance on God for guidance and victory, as stated in 2 Samuel 5:19 and 2 Samuel 5:23. Overall, the chapter demonstrates God's faithfulness to David and the establishment of his kingdom.

Context for the Chapter

This chapter is part of the larger narrative of 1 and 2 Samuel, which tells the story of Israel's transition from the period of the judges to the monarchy. The chapter is also part of the larger biblical narrative, which tells the story of God's relationship with His people and the establishment of His kingdom. The chapter follows David's anointing as king over Judah in 2 Samuel 2:1-7 and precedes his establishment of the Ark of the Covenant in Jerusalem in 2 Samuel 6:1-23.

Heart Application

This chapter encourages Christians to trust in God's power and guidance, just as David did. It also emphasizes the importance of humility and recognizing God's sovereignty in all aspects of life. As seen in 2 Samuel 5:12, David's kingdom was established for the sake of God's people, and Christians should similarly seek to serve others and glorify God in their own lives.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

This chapter tells the story of David becoming king of all Israel and capturing the city of Jerusalem. It shows how David trusted in God's power and guidance, and how God gave him victory over his enemies. As seen in 2 Samuel 5:12, David's kingdom was established for the sake of God's people, and Christians should similarly seek to serve others and glorify God in their own lives. The chapter encourages Christians to trust in God's power and guidance, just as David did.

Voices from the Church

“The Lord's people are never at a loss for guidance, for they have the Lord Himself to direct them. As David inquired of the Lord, so should we, and we shall not be disappointed.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“David's establishment as king is a type of the kingdom of Christ, which will be established forever. As seen in 2 Samuel 5:12, God's sovereignty is emphasized, and Christians should recognize and submit to God's authority in their own lives.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

  1. The Tribes of Israel Anoint David as King (2 Samuel 5:1-5) — The chapter begins with the tribes of Israel coming to David at Hebron to anoint him as their king, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:1-5. This marks the beginning of David's reign as king over all Israel.
  2. David Captures Jerusalem (2 Samuel 5:6-12) — David then captures Jerusalem, making it his capital, as recorded in 2 Samuel 5:6-12. This is a significant event in the chapter, as it marks the beginning of David's reign as king over all Israel.
  3. David Defeats the Philistines (2 Samuel 5:17-25) — The chapter also notes David's defeat of the Philistines, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:17-25. This demonstrates God's faithfulness to David and the importance of trusting in God's power and guidance.
  4. David's Reliance on God (2 Samuel 5:19, 23) — Throughout the chapter, David is shown to be reliant on God for guidance and victory, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:19 and 2 Samuel 5:23. This is a key aspect of his leadership and a trait that Christians should emulate.
  5. Conclusion (2 Samuel 5:25) — The chapter concludes with a statement of David's victory over the Philistines, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:25. This emphasizes God's faithfulness to David and the importance of trusting in God's power and guidance.

Core Doctrines

The Sovereignty of God
This chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:12. It shows how God is in control of all events and how He guides and directs His people.
The Importance of Humility
The chapter highlights the importance of humility, as seen in David's recognition of God's sovereignty. This is a key aspect of the Christian life and a trait that Christians should emulate.
The Power of Prayer
The chapter demonstrates the power of prayer, as seen in David's inquiries of the Lord. This emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His power.
The Establishment of God's Kingdom
The chapter points to the establishment of God's kingdom, which will be fulfilled in Christ. As seen in 2 Samuel 5:12, David's kingdom was established for the sake of God's people, and Christians should similarly seek to serve others and glorify God in their own lives.

Lessons from 2 Samuel 5

  1. The Importance of Humility — This chapter teaches us the importance of humility and recognizing God's sovereignty in all aspects of life. As seen in 2 Samuel 5:12, David's kingdom was established for the sake of God's people, and Christians should similarly seek to serve others and glorify God in their own lives.
  2. The Power of Prayer — The chapter demonstrates the power of prayer and the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His power. As seen in 2 Samuel 5:19 and 2 Samuel 5:23, David's inquiries of the Lord are a key aspect of his leadership and a trait that Christians should emulate.
  3. The Establishment of God's Kingdom — The chapter points to the establishment of God's kingdom, which will be fulfilled in Christ. As seen in 2 Samuel 5:12, David's kingdom was established for the sake of God's people, and Christians should similarly seek to serve others and glorify God in their own lives.
  4. The Importance of Trusting in God's Power — The chapter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's power and guidance, as seen in David's defeats of the Philistines. As seen in 2 Samuel 5:19 and 2 Samuel 5:23, David's inquiries of the Lord are a key aspect of his leadership and a trait that Christians should emulate.
  5. The Sovereignty of God — The chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:12. It shows how God is in control of all events and how He guides and directs His people.

Themes from 2 Samuel 5

  1. God's Sovereignty — The chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:12. It shows how God is in control of all events and how He guides and directs His people.
  2. The Importance of Humility — The chapter highlights the importance of humility, as seen in David's recognition of God's sovereignty. This is a key aspect of the Christian life and a trait that Christians should emulate.
  3. The Power of Prayer — The chapter demonstrates the power of prayer, as seen in David's inquiries of the Lord. This emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His power.
  4. The Establishment of God's Kingdom — The chapter points to the establishment of God's kingdom, which will be fulfilled in Christ. As seen in 2 Samuel 5:12, David's kingdom was established for the sake of God's people, and Christians should similarly seek to serve others and glorify God in their own lives.
  5. The Importance of Trusting in God's Power — The chapter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's power and guidance, as seen in David's defeats of the Philistines. As seen in 2 Samuel 5:19 and 2 Samuel 5:23, David's inquiries of the Lord are a key aspect of his leadership and a trait that Christians should emulate.

Questions for Meditation

  1. What can we learn from David's humility and recognition of God's sovereignty in this chapter?
  2. How does this chapter demonstrate the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His power?
  3. What does this chapter teach us about the establishment of God's kingdom and the role of Christ as King?
  4. How can we apply the principles of this chapter to our own lives, particularly in terms of trusting in God's power and guidance?
  5. What does this chapter reveal about God's character and His relationship with His people?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. The Tribes of Israel Anoint David as King (2 Samuel 5:1-5)

5:1 The tribes of Israel come to David at Hebron to anoint him as their king, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:1. This marks the beginning of David's reign as king over all Israel.
5:2 The tribes of Israel recognize David's leadership and anoint him as their king, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:2. This is a significant event in the chapter, as it marks the beginning of David's reign as king over all Israel.
5:3 The elders of Israel come to David at Hebron to anoint him as their king, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:3. This emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His power.
5:4 David is thirty years old when he begins to reign as king over Israel, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:4. This marks the beginning of David's reign as king over all Israel.
5:5 David reigns as king over Israel for forty years, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:5. This is a significant event in the chapter, as it marks the beginning of David's reign as king over all Israel.

2. David Captures Jerusalem (2 Samuel 5:6-12)

5:6 The Jebusites inhabit the city of Jerusalem, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:6. This is a significant event in the chapter, as it marks the beginning of David's reign as king over all Israel.
5:7 David and his men capture the city of Jerusalem, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:7. This emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's power and guidance.
5:8 David makes Jerusalem his capital, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:8. This is a significant event in the chapter, as it marks the beginning of David's reign as king over all Israel.
5:9 David builds a palace for himself in Jerusalem, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:9. This emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His power.
5:10 David becomes greater and greater, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:10. This is a significant event in the chapter, as it marks the beginning of David's reign as king over all Israel.
5:11 King Hiram of Tyre sends messengers to David, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:11. This emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His power.
5:12 David knows that the Lord has established him as king over Israel, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:12. This is a significant event in the chapter, as it marks the beginning of David's reign as king over all Israel.

3. David Defeats the Philistines (2 Samuel 5:17-25)

5:17 The Philistines hear that David has been anointed king over Israel, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:17. This is a significant event in the chapter, as it marks the beginning of David's reign as king over all Israel.
5:18 The Philistines come up to search for David, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:18. This emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's power and guidance.
5:19 David inquires of the Lord, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:19. This emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His power.
5:20 David defeats the Philistines, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:20. This is a significant event in the chapter, as it marks the beginning of David's reign as king over all Israel.
5:21 The Philistines abandon their idols, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:21. This emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His power.
5:22 The Philistines come up again to search for David, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:22. This is a significant event in the chapter, as it marks the beginning of David's reign as king over all Israel.
5:23 David inquires of the Lord again, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:23. This emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His power.
5:24 The Lord tells David to go down to the Philistines, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:24. This is a significant event in the chapter, as it marks the beginning of David's reign as king over all Israel.
5:25 David defeats the Philistines, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:25. This emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's power and guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of David's capture of Jerusalem?

David's capture of Jerusalem is significant because it marks the beginning of his reign as king over all Israel and establishes Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:6-12.

Why did David inquire of the Lord before going into battle?

David inquired of the Lord before going into battle because he recognized God's sovereignty and trusted in His power and guidance, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:19 and 2 Samuel 5:23.

What does this chapter teach us about God's character?

This chapter teaches us that God is sovereign, faithful, and powerful, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:12 and 2 Samuel 5:25. It also emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's power and guidance.

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 2 Samuel 5:1 → 1 Chronicles 11:1-3 The tribes of Israel come to David at Hebron to anoint him as their king, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:1 and 1 Chronicles 11:1-3.
2 2 Samuel 5:6 → 1 Chronicles 11:4-9 David and his men capture the city of Jerusalem, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:6 and 1 Chronicles 11:4-9.
3 2 Samuel 5:12 → Psalm 2:1-12 David knows that the Lord has established him as king over Israel, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:12 and Psalm 2:1-12.
4 2 Samuel 5:17 → 1 Chronicles 14:8-17 The Philistines hear that David has been anointed king over Israel, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:17 and 1 Chronicles 14:8-17.
5 2 Samuel 5:19 → Proverbs 3:5-6 David inquires of the Lord, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:19 and Proverbs 3:5-6.
6 2 Samuel 5:20 → Isaiah 28:21 David defeats the Philistines, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:20 and Isaiah 28:21.
7 2 Samuel 5:23 → Psalm 37:3-7 David inquires of the Lord again, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:23 and Psalm 37:3-7.
8 2 Samuel 5:25 → Acts 13:22 David defeats the Philistines, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:25 and Acts 13:22.

Sermons on 2 Samuel 5

SermonDescription
David Pawson Israel in the End Times by David Pawson In this sermon, the speaker discusses the signs that Jesus gave regarding his second coming. He explains that there are four main signs: famine, wars, earthquakes in the world; a g
Alan Redpath When Jesus Is Enthroned by Alan Redpath In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing the potential for a life of victory in the next 35 minutes. He encourages the audience to listen to God's serva
Carter Conlon The Snare of the Satisfied by Carter Conlon In this sermon, the speaker begins by asking God to give them His Word and for it to burn within them. They ask God to keep them from laziness and the snares of victory. The speake
Jack Hyles Jack Hyles Fresh Oil Part 1 by Jack Hyles This sermon emphasizes the importance of being anointed with fresh oil, drawing parallels to King David's anointing as a symbol of God's empowerment and calling. It shares a person
Bill McLeod (Grace Baptist) Wait on the Lord by Bill McLeod In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of David and his battle with the Philistines. Instead of repeating the same strategy as before, God instructs David to stand by the
T. Austin-Sparks The Holy Spirit - Part 5 by T. Austin-Sparks In this sermon, the preacher discusses the subtlety of Satan's tactics in deceiving and stealing the hearts of people through fair words and a fair presence. He emphasizes the impo
Bob Jennings Cut Off Goliath's Head by Bob Jennings In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being fully committed to God and pursuing holiness. He encourages the audience to confront and overcome their besetting si
David Guzik (2 Samuel) King David in Triumph by David Guzik In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing when the Lord is at work and being ready to advance quickly in our spiritual battles. Using the example of Davi
Mike Bickle Overview: David, the Man After God's Own Heart by Mike Bickle Mike Bickle discusses the life of David, emphasizing his unique relationship with God as a man after His own heart. He highlights David's journey from a humble shepherd to a king,
Mike Bickle International Family of Affection: Confronting the Control Spirit by Mike Bickle Mike Bickle emphasizes the Lord's intention to create an international family of affection, highlighting the need for believers to embrace shifts and changes within the body of Chr

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 2 Samuel 5

In this chapter, we see the Lord exalting David to the throne of Israel, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:12. The tribes of Israel come to David at Hebron to anoint him as their king, and he captures the city of Jerusalem, making it his capital. David also defeats the Philistines, demonstrating God's faithfulness to him and the importance of trusting in God's power and guidance. As Matthew Henry notes, 'The Lord gave David victory, and David gave the Lord the glory.' This chapter encourages Christians to trust in God's power and guidance, just as David did, and to recognize God's sovereignty in all aspects of life. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

David's Humility

David recognizes God's sovereignty and his own dependence on God, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:12. This humility is a key aspect of his leadership and a trait that Christians should emulate.

God's Faithfulness

The chapter highlights God's faithfulness to David, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:19 and 2 Samuel 5:23. This faithfulness is a theme throughout the Bible and a promise that Christians can trust in.

The Importance of Seeking God's Guidance

David's inquiries of the Lord, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:19 and 2 Samuel 5:23, demonstrate the importance of seeking God's guidance in all aspects of life. This is a key aspect of the Christian life and a principle that can be applied in many different situations.

Everything we make is available for free because of a generous community of supporters.

Donate