The Compassionate Shepherd
Sermon July 21, 2024, Title: Compassionate Shepherd: Scripture: 2 Samuel 7:1-14a.
Pastor Fred Okello
Once upon a time, a skilled builder named Jacob lived in a small village. Jacob was known for his dedication and craftsmanship and was very proud of his work. One day, a village elder approached Jacob and made a special request. The elder asked him to construct a magnificent community center that would serve as a gathering place for the villagers, allowing them to come together and celebrate important events.
Jacob felt honored by the request and eagerly agreed. He spent months planning and building the community center, ensuring perfect detail. He used the best materials and dedicated his heart to the project. The villagers were astounded by the magnificent structure Jacob had built when it was finally finished.
As the village gathered to commemorate the opening of the community center, the elder took Jacob aside. "Jacob," the elder stated, "your work has been outstanding. However, while you were building this community center, we worked on something special for you".
The elder took Jacob to a nearby plot of land where a beautiful house stood. The villagers gave Jacob a home as a gift for his years of service and dedication. Jacob was overwhelmed by gratitude. He had poured himself into creating something for the community, and in exchange, he received an even more incredible blessing.
In 2 Samuel 7:1-14a, we see a similar dynamic. David wants to build a house for God, a temple where the Ark of the Covenant can live. He intends to honor God, but God reverses the situation and makes a promise to David instead. God promises to build a house for David, a royal dynasty that will last forever. This promise is eventually fulfilled in Jesus Christ, a descendant of David whose kingdom is eternal. Let us delve into this rich scripture and discover its timeless truths.
The passage begins with David, now king and living in a palace, expressing his desire to construct a home for the Ark of God. He is concerned that he lives in a cedar house while the Ark remains in a tent (2 Samuel 7:1-3). David's desire to honor God by building a temple is admirable. It demonstrates his devotion and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty over his life. We should strive to honor God in everything we do. However, we must also seek God's will and timing, ensuring our desires are consistent with His plans.
But how does God respond to David’s desire?
That night, the Lord's word comes to Nathan the prophet. God reminds David that He has never requested a house of cedar. God has accompanied His people on their journey, dwelling in a tent (2 Samuel 7:4–7).
A significant lesion for us is that God is present with His people wherever they are. His residence is not limited to a building. God is present in all situations and places. Our relationship with Him is based not on a physical structure but on His constant presence in our lives.
God shifts the focus away from David's desire to build a house for God and toward God's plan to build a house for him. God recounts His faithfulness in raising David from shepherd to king and promises to magnify David's name, provide a haven for Israel, and give David rest from his enemies (2 Samuel 7:8-11).
Church, God's covenant with David signifies grace. God initiates this promise, demonstrating His undeserved favor for David. This reminds us of God's grace in our lives. His promises and blessings depend not on our efforts but on His goodness and faithfulness.
God promises that after David's death, He will raise his offspring, establish his kingdom, and establish his throne for all time. This offspring refers to Jesus Christ, the Son of David, whose kingdom is eternal (2 Samuel 7:12-14a).
God’s prophecy emphasizes the arrival of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who fulfills God's promise of an eternal kingdom. Jesus Christ fulfills God's promise, providing hope and assurance. Our faith is based on the eternal kingdom established through Him. This promise invites us to trust in God's plan and timing.
In summary, 2 Samuel 7:1-14a, is a watershed moment in biblical history when God's covenant with David lays the groundwork for the arrival of Christ. David's desire to honor God is met with a far greater promise from God—a promise that extends beyond David's lifetime and is fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
Church, let us be inspired by David's desire to honor God, and let us believe in God's promises, knowing that His plans for us are founded on His grace and faithfulness. May we find hope and assurance in the eternal kingdom of Jesus Christ the Good Shepherd! Let us pray!
Thank You, Heavenly Father, for Your faithfulness and promises to us. Help us to honor You in everything we do and to believe in Your plans for our lives. We thank You for the eternal kingdom established by Jesus Christ, our Lord. Let us live in the hope and assurance of Your promises. In Jesus' name, Amen.