David’s desire to build a house for the LORD seems pious enough, as is Nathan’s initial response confirming David’s desire. The LORD interrupts, however, to let David know that His plans are much larger than what David has in mind. The LORD reminds David that the LORD has done everything for David individually and Israel collectively. The LORD has remained mobile along with His people, and that has served both Him and Israel well. The time is not yet for a permanent structure for the LORD, but the LORD has a better promise in mind. The LORD will establish a house for David. This is more than the promise of a dynasty in Israel. This is the promise that the Christ will come from the line of David to be the true temple for the LORD and reign as King forever. Jesus is the fulfillment of this promise.

Rev. Ned Moerbe, pastor at Memorial Lutheran Church and School in Houston, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 2 Samuel 7:1-17.

"A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord Jesus Christ.

Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: [email protected]