A Word from God's Word

“Your throne shall be established forever.”

II Samuel 7:16b

THESE WORDS ARE ANNOUNCED by the prophet Nathan shortly after David has assumed the throne of ancient Israel. In so doing, he replaces their first king, Saul, who failed to understand the importance of obedience to God.

David, by contrast, is “a man after God’s own heart” (I Samuel 13:14) and therefore, not surprisingly, he wishes to build a temple for the LORD. Yet Nathan cautions him that it will be his son (Solomon), not David himself, who builds God’s house. But as Nathan prophesies, it is very clear that there is a further son of David—his Greater Son—who is being foreshadowed. And who is that Son? It is Jesus.

It is Christ who ultimately will fulfil the promises made to King David. For Christ’s throne truly is an everlasting throne. After His resurrection, He ascended back to heaven where He “sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high” (Hebrews 1:3). He reigns even now, yet there is coming a day when He will come again and reign forever, a day when “every knee should bow, … and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord” (Philippians 2:10,11).

Therefore, bow the knee to Him now and know the grace and mercy that He offers to all who will come in faith and repentance. Come now to the gentle Shepherd and gracious Saviour who one day will be King and Judge.

Pastor Craig publishes  "A Word from God's Word" weekly in the "Kootenay News Advertiser".