2 Samuel 6

Chapter Summary

The chapter begins with David gathering 30,000 men to bring the Ark of the Covenant from Kiriath-jearim to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6:1). However, the procession ends in tragedy when Uzzah, one of the men carrying the Ark, touches it and is struck down by God (2 Samuel 6:6-7). David is afraid and leaves the Ark at the house of Obed-edom, where it remains for three months, bringing blessing to the household (2 Samuel 6:10-11). Eventually, David brings the Ark to Jerusalem, offering sacrifices and dancing before the Lord with great joy (2 Samuel 6:12-15, 2 Samuel 6:17-19). The chapter concludes with David's wife, Michal, rebuking him for his behavior, but David responds by stating that he will continue to worship the Lord with humility and joy (2 Samuel 6:20-23).

Context for the Chapter

This chapter is part of the larger narrative of David's reign as king of Israel, which is recorded in 1 and 2 Samuel. The story of the Ark's transportation to Jerusalem is significant because it marks the beginning of David's efforts to establish Jerusalem as the central location for worship in Israel. The chapter also connects to the broader biblical narrative, as the Ark is a symbol of God's covenant with His people, which is fulfilled in Christ.

Heart Application

This chapter encourages believers to approach God with reverence and humility, recognizing the significance of worship and the importance of obedience. As David danced before the Lord with joy, so too can believers cultivate a heart of worship, surrendering to God's presence and glory.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

This chapter tells the story of David bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, highlighting the importance of reverence and obedience in worship. David's passion for worship and his willingness to humble himself before the Lord serve as an example for believers. As seen in 2 Samuel 6:14, David danced before the Lord with joy, demonstrating the freedom and joy that comes from worshiping God.

Voices from the Church

“The Ark of the Covenant was a symbol of God's presence, and its presence demanded reverence and obedience. So too does the presence of Christ demand humility and surrender.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“David's dancing before the Lord demonstrates the joy and freedom that comes from worshiping God. Believers should strive to cultivate this kind of passion and reverence in their own worship.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

1. The Transportation of the Ark (2 Samuel 6:1-5) — David gathers 30,000 men to bring the Ark from Kiriath-jearim to Jerusalem, but the procession ends in tragedy when Uzzah touches the Ark and is struck down by God.
2. The Ark at the House of Obed-edom (2 Samuel 6:6-11) — The Ark is left at the house of Obed-edom, where it remains for three months, bringing blessing to the household.
3. The Ark Brought to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6:12-15) — David brings the Ark to Jerusalem, offering sacrifices and dancing before the Lord with great joy.
4. Michal's Rebuke (2 Samuel 6:16-20) — David's wife, Michal, rebukes him for his behavior, but David responds by stating that he will continue to worship the Lord with humility and joy.
5. Conclusion (2 Samuel 6:21-23) — David's response to Michal serves as a conclusion to the chapter, emphasizing the importance of humility and reverence in worship.

Core Doctrines

The Presence of God

This chapter highlights the significance of the Ark as a symbol of God's presence, emphasizing the importance of reverence and obedience in approaching Him.

Worship

The chapter demonstrates the importance of worship, showcasing David's passion and joy in worshiping the Lord.

Humility

David's willingness to humble himself before the Lord serves as an example for believers, emphasizing the need for humility in worship.

The Covenant

The Ark is a symbol of the covenant between God and His people, which is fulfilled in Christ.

Lessons from 2 Samuel 6

1. The Importance of Reverence in Worship — This chapter emphasizes the need for reverence and obedience in worship, as seen in the tragic event of Uzzah's death.
2. The Joy of Worship — David's passion for worship serves as an example for believers, demonstrating the joy and freedom that comes from worshiping God.
3. The Significance of Humility — David's willingness to humble himself before the Lord emphasizes the importance of humility in worship and the need for believers to approach God with reverence.
4. The Covenant and Worship — The Ark is a symbol of the covenant between God and His people, which is fulfilled in Christ, highlighting the significance of worship and the importance of approaching God with reverence and obedience.
5. The Example of David's Leadership — David's leadership and passion for worship serve as an example for believers, demonstrating the importance of reverence, obedience, and humility in worship.

Themes from 2 Samuel 6

1. Worship and Reverence — This chapter highlights the importance of reverence and obedience in worship, emphasizing the need for believers to approach God with humility and awe.
2. The Presence of God — The Ark is a symbol of God's presence, which is fulfilled in Christ, highlighting the significance of worship and the importance of approaching God with reverence.
3. Humility and Obedience — David's willingness to humble himself before the Lord serves as an example for believers, emphasizing the need for humility and obedience in worship.
4. The Covenant and Redemption — The Ark is a symbol of the covenant between God and His people, which is fulfilled in Christ, highlighting the significance of worship and the importance of approaching God with reverence and obedience.
5. Joy and Freedom in Worship — David's passion for worship serves as an example for believers, demonstrating the joy and freedom that comes from worshiping God.

Questions for Meditation

1. What does the Ark of the Covenant represent in this chapter, and what significance does it hold for believers today?
2. How does David's passion for worship serve as an example for believers, and what can we learn from his example?
3. What is the significance of Uzzah's death, and what does it teach us about the importance of obedience and reverence in worship?
4. How does Michal's rebuke of David relate to the broader theme of worship and humility, and what can we learn from David's response?
5. What does this chapter teach us about the importance of reverence and obedience in worship, and how can we apply these principles in our own lives?

Detailed Chapter Outline

Frequently Asked Questions

Top Cross References

Sermons on 2 Samuel 6

	Sermon	Description
	God's Work to Be Done God's Way by Paris Reidhead	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of David and the capture of the ark of God by the Philistines. The background of the story goes back to Eli, who was Orthodox but ha
	Ark of the Covenant - Part 4 by Major Ian Thomas	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of seeking the truth of God's word rather than being entertained by inspirational talks. He criticizes the tendency of Christ
	Great Decisions of the Bible by Vance Havner	In this sermon, the preacher highlights the tragedy of the church being preoccupied with trivial matters instead of focusing on the supernatural. He emphasizes the need for the chu
	Samson - Part 2 by Leonard Ravenhill	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of dying to oneself and surrendering to God's plans. He emphasizes that true success comes from God's triumph and that He will
	A Marriage Gone Sour by Chuck Smith	In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the topic of marriage and the challenges that many marriages face in today's society. He begins by praying for guidance and asks for God's w
	When Mercy Kills an Outstretched Hand by Carter Conlon	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the danger of hirelings in the pulpit who avoid addressing sin in the lives of their congregation. He emphasizes that when God is not present,
	The Book of Ruth #1 by T. Austin-Sparks	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the book of Ruth as a contrast to the dark and tragic conditions described in the book of Judges. The speaker emphasizes that even in the mids
	David's New Car - Part 1 by Vance Havner	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of David and the Ark of the Covenant. He emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility in carrying out the Lord's work, contr
	Finishing the Course - 02 Filling Up What Is Lacking by Zac Poonen	In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of people attending church meetings but not actively seeking fellowship with others. He emphasizes the importance of filling up what
	Through the Bible - 2 Samuel by Zac Poonen	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not grabbing or taking things for ourselves, but instead waiting for God's timing and provision. He uses the example of Ja

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 2 Samuel 6

In this chapter, we see the transportation of the Ark to Jerusalem, which is a significant event in the history of Israel. The Ark is a symbol of God's presence, and its transportation requires great care and reverence. The death of Uzzah serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of reverence in worship. David's dancing before the Lord demonstrates his passion for worship and his willingness to humble himself before God. This chapter teaches us about the importance of reverence and obedience in worship, and the need for believers to approach God with humility and awe. As Matthew Henry writes, 'The Ark was a symbol of God's presence, and its transportation was a solemn and sacred occasion.' Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?