The great commission can seem like such a daunting task. But what does Jesus really expect of His church? Is it really as extraordinary as we let on? (Matthew 28:16-20)

These early chapters in 2 Samuel, we see the dynamics of the transition of power from the dynasty of Saul to David's. We see over a slew of intrigue, double-crossing, and assassination, that David remains meek and blameless. Despite a long history of people telling David that God has given him some sort of treacherous opportunity, it is only when when David has received unsolicited grace, that David knows personally that God has given him the throne.

Even though some believers are radically changed by radio/television broadcasts of the gospel, every believer needs other more mature believers to pour in to them and advise them on their journey of sanctification. This is how God intended His body to function (Ephesians 4:11-14).

The final chapter of Saul's life is a sad one. It is also full of tension, as David is working for the Philistines. Will Saul die at his hand after all? Once again we encounter God's sovereign plan as He leads David to the throne.

Why should we make disciples? According to Paul in Titus we should make disciples because of what God did in revealing grace in Christ, because of what God will do in revealing glory in Christ and because of what God is doing in purifying a people for himself. This is why we as a church seek to embrace our calling to make mature disciples of Jesus.

David's life on the lam continues. His path crosses with several colorful characters along the way. He saves the people of Keilah, but they give him over to Saul. David spares Saul's once, meets and marries Abigail the wife of Nabal, and spares Saul's life a second time. At the end of this passage, Saul goes back to his throne and David leaves the borders of Israel.

Jesus, the eternal King, bears many titles that human government bears. He is Ruler, Judge, and Enforcer. The one unique quality Jesus gives His people is that He is the Giver of Life. We see in this passage the great hope that awaits for those who've given their life into Jesus' hands (Daniel 12).

Jonathan and David consort to determine whether or not Saul is actually trying to kill David. When certainty is assured, David flees Saul's house. On his way, David cross paths with the priests in Nob, acquires Goliath's sword, and builds up an army.

God directs Samuel to the household of Jesse, the Ephrathite. There, God selects everyone's last choice as His next king. David is anointed in secret, but fame begins gathering around him from his defeat of the Philistine Champion, Goliath, through David's continued military prowess. Meanwhile, an intense jealousy brews within Saul against his new right hand man.

When Daniel fasts in mourning, God sends him an angel to reveal to him that which is to come. An intense vision of God's glory lays Daniel out, from which he gradually recovers over the course of the chapter (Daniel 10).