2 Samuel 1
BSB1 After the death of Saul, David returned from the slaughter of the Amalekites and stayed in Ziklag two days. 2 On the third day a man with torn clothes and dust on his head arrived from Saul’s camp. When he came to David, he fell to the ground to pay him homage. 3 “Where have you come from?” David asked. “I have escaped from the Israelite camp,” he replied. 4 “What was the outcome?” David asked. “Please tell me.” “The troops fled from the battle,” he replied. “Many of them fell and died. And Saul and his son Jonathan are also dead." 5 Then David asked the young man who had brought him the report, “How do you know that Saul and his son Jonathan are dead?" 6 “I happened to be on Mount Gilboa,” he replied, “and there was Saul, leaning on his spear, with the chariots and the cavalry closing in on him. 7 When he turned around and saw me, he called out and I answered, ‘Here I am!’ 8 ‘Who are you?’ he asked. So I told him, ‘I am an Amalekite.’ 9 Then he begged me, ‘Stand over me and kill me, for agony has seized me, but my life still lingers.’ 10 So I stood over him and killed him, because I knew that after he had fallen he could not survive. And I took the crown that was on his head and the band that was on his arm, and I have brought them here to my lord." 11 Then David took hold of his own clothes and tore them, and all the men who were with him did the same. 12 They mourned and wept and fasted until evening for Saul and his son Jonathan, and for the people of the LORD and the house of Israel, because they had fallen by the sword. 13 And David inquired of the young man who had brought him the report, “Where are you from?” “I am the son of a foreigner,” he answered. “I am an Amalekite." 14 So David asked him, “Why were you not afraid to lift your hand to destroy the LORD’s anointed?" 15 Then David summoned one of the young men and said, “Go, execute him!” So the young man struck him down, and he died. 16 For David had said to the Amalekite, “Your blood be on your own head because your own mouth has testified against you, saying, ‘I killed the LORD’s anointed.’" 17 Then David took up this lament for Saul and his son Jonathan, 18 and he ordered that the sons of Judah be taught the Song of the Bow. It is written in the Book of Jashar: 19 “Your glory, O Israel, lies slain on your heights. How the mighty have fallen! 20 Tell it not in Gath; proclaim it not in the streets of Ashkelon, lest the daughters of the Philistines rejoice, and the daughters of the uncircumcised exult. 21 O mountains of Gilboa, may you have no dew or rain, no fields yielding offerings of grain. For there the shield of the mighty was defiled, the shield of Saul, no longer anointed with oil. 22 From the blood of the slain, from the fat of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan did not retreat, and the sword of Saul did not return empty. 23 Saul and Jonathan, beloved and delightful in life, were not divided in death. They were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions. 24 O daughters of Israel, weep for Saul, who clothed you in scarlet and luxury, who decked your garments with ornaments of gold. 25 How the mighty have fallen in the thick of battle! Jonathan lies slain on your heights. 26 I grieve for you, Jonathan, my brother. You were delightful to me; your love to me was extraordinary, surpassing the love of women. 27 How the mighty have fallen and the weapons of war have perished!"
Study Notes — 2 Samuel 1
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from 2 Samuel 1
- Themes from 2 Samuel 1
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on 2 Samuel 1
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The chapter begins with an Amalekite messenger arriving to inform David of Saul's death, bringing the crown and armlet as proof. David and his men mourn and fast until evening, showing respect for the fallen king. David then questions the messenger, who claims to have killed Saul at his request. However, David sees this as a grave sin and has the messenger executed. The chapter concludes with David's lament over Saul and Jonathan, praising their bravery and mourning their loss. Key verses include 2 Samuel 1:1-10, which describe the news of Saul's death, and 2 Samuel 1:17-27, which contain David's lament.
Context for the Chapter
This chapter follows the events of 1 Samuel 31, which describes the death of Saul and his sons. It sets the stage for David's rise to power and his establishment as king of Israel. The chapter is also significant in the larger biblical narrative, as it highlights the importance of respecting God's sovereignty and the consequences of sinning against Him. The events of this chapter will have a lasting impact on David's reign and the future of Israel.
Heart Application
This chapter encourages us to respect God's sovereignty and to acknowledge the consequences of sin. It reminds us of the importance of mourning and lamenting the loss of those who have gone before us, and of finding ways to express our grief in a healthy and constructive manner. As we reflect on this chapter, we are called to examine our own hearts and to consider how we can demonstrate respect for God's authority in our own lives.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter is about David's reaction to the news of King Saul's death. David is sad and mourns the loss of his king, despite the fact that Saul had been trying to kill him. The chapter teaches us about the importance of respecting God's sovereignty and the consequences of sinning against Him. In 2 Samuel 1:14, David says, "How is it you were not afraid to lift your hand to destroy the Lord's anointed?" This verse shows that David understands the sacred nature of the office of king and the importance of respecting God's authority.
Voices from the Church
“The death of Saul is a solemn reminder of the fleeting nature of human life and the importance of preparing for eternity. As David mourned the loss of his king, so too should we mourn the loss of our own sin and rebellion against God.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The execution of the Amalekite messenger serves as a reminder of the severity of God's justice and the importance of obeying His commands. It is a call to us to examine our own hearts and to consider how we can demonstrate our commitment to God's sovereignty.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- The News of Saul's Death (1:1-5) — The chapter begins with an Amalekite messenger arriving to inform David of Saul's death, bringing the crown and armlet as proof. This sets the stage for the rest of the chapter and highlights the significance of the event.
- David's Reaction to the News (1:6-10) — David and his men mourn and fast until evening, showing respect for the fallen king. This demonstrates David's commitment to God's sovereignty and his understanding of the sacred nature of the office.
- The Execution of the Amalekite Messenger (1:11-16) — David questions the messenger, who claims to have killed Saul at his request. However, David sees this as a grave sin and has the messenger executed. This serves as a reminder of the consequences of sinning against God.
- David's Lament over Saul and Jonathan (1:17-27) — The chapter concludes with David's lament over Saul and Jonathan, praising their bravery and mourning their loss. This is a beautiful expression of grief and praise, highlighting the importance of acknowledging sorrow and finding ways to express it in a healthy and constructive manner.
- Conclusion (1:27) — The chapter ends with David's final words of lament, emphasizing the significance of the event and the importance of respecting God's sovereignty.
Core Doctrines
- The Sovereignty of God
- This chapter teaches us about the importance of respecting God's sovereignty and the consequences of sinning against Him. In 2 Samuel 1:14, David says, "How is it you were not afraid to lift your hand to destroy the Lord's anointed?" This verse shows that David understands the sacred nature of the office of king and the importance of respecting God's authority.
- The Importance of Mourning
- The chapter highlights the importance of mourning and lamenting the loss of those who have gone before us. In 2 Samuel 1:17-27, David's lament over Saul and Jonathan is a beautiful expression of grief and praise, emphasizing the significance of acknowledging sorrow and finding ways to express it in a healthy and constructive manner.
- The Consequences of Sin
- The execution of the Amalekite messenger serves as a reminder of the consequences of sinning against God. In 2 Samuel 1:15-16, David has the messenger executed, demonstrating his commitment to upholding God's standards and respecting His authority.
- The Sacred Nature of the Office of King
- The chapter emphasizes the sacred nature of the office of king, highlighting the importance of respecting God's sovereignty and the consequences of sinning against Him. In 2 Samuel 1:14, David says, "How is it you were not afraid to lift your hand to destroy the Lord's anointed?" This verse shows that David understands the importance of respecting God's authority and the sacred nature of the office.
Lessons from 2 Samuel 1
- Respect for the Office of King — This chapter teaches us about the importance of respecting the office of king and the sacred nature of God's sovereignty. As we reflect on this lesson, we are called to examine our own hearts and to consider how we can demonstrate respect for God's authority in our own lives.
- The Consequences of Sin — The execution of the Amalekite messenger serves as a reminder of the consequences of sinning against God. This lesson encourages us to examine our own hearts and to consider how we can avoid sinning against God.
- The Importance of Mourning — The chapter highlights the importance of mourning and lamenting the loss of those who have gone before us. This lesson encourages us to find healthy and constructive ways to express our grief and to acknowledge the significance of the event.
- The Sovereignty of God — This chapter teaches us about the importance of respecting God's sovereignty and the consequences of sinning against Him. As we reflect on this lesson, we are called to examine our own hearts and to consider how we can demonstrate our commitment to God's authority.
- The Sacred Nature of the Office of King — The chapter emphasizes the sacred nature of the office of king, highlighting the importance of respecting God's sovereignty and the consequences of sinning against Him. This lesson encourages us to respect the authority of those in leadership and to acknowledge the sacred nature of their office.
Themes from 2 Samuel 1
- Mourning and Lament — The chapter highlights the importance of mourning and lamenting the loss of those who have gone before us. This theme is significant in the larger biblical narrative, as it emphasizes the importance of acknowledging sorrow and finding ways to express it in a healthy and constructive manner.
- The Sovereignty of God — This chapter teaches us about the importance of respecting God's sovereignty and the consequences of sinning against Him. This theme is central to the biblical narrative, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging God's authority and respecting His standards.
- The Consequences of Sin — The execution of the Amalekite messenger serves as a reminder of the consequences of sinning against God. This theme is significant in the larger biblical narrative, as it emphasizes the importance of obeying God's commands and respecting His authority.
- The Sacred Nature of the Office of King — The chapter emphasizes the sacred nature of the office of king, highlighting the importance of respecting God's sovereignty and the consequences of sinning against Him. This theme is significant in the larger biblical narrative, as it emphasizes the importance of respecting the authority of those in leadership.
- Respect for Authority — The chapter teaches us about the importance of respecting the authority of those in leadership and acknowledging the sacred nature of their office. This theme is central to the biblical narrative, emphasizing the importance of obeying God's commands and respecting His standards.
Questions for Meditation
- How does David's reaction to the news of Saul's death demonstrate his respect for the office of king?
- What does the execution of the Amalekite messenger teach us about the consequences of sinning against God?
- How does David's lament over Saul and Jonathan demonstrate the importance of mourning and lamenting the loss of those who have gone before us?
- What does this chapter teach us about the sovereignty of God and the importance of respecting His authority?
- How can we apply the lessons of this chapter to our own lives, demonstrating respect for God's sovereignty and acknowledging the consequences of sinning against Him?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The News of Saul's Death (1:1-5)
| 1:1 | The chapter begins with an Amalekite messenger arriving to inform David of Saul's death, bringing the crown and armlet as proof. |
| 1:2 | The messenger is described as wearing mourning clothes, indicating his respect for the fallen king. |
| 1:3 | David and his men are on the run from Saul, and the messenger's news is a surprise to them. |
| 1:4 | The messenger tells David that Saul and his sons are dead, and that he has brought the crown and armlet as proof. |
| 1:5 | David and his men mourn and fast until evening, showing respect for the fallen king. |
2. David's Reaction to the News (1:6-10)
| 1:6 | The messenger tells David that he found Saul leaning on his spear, wounded and about to die. |
| 1:7 | The messenger claims to have killed Saul at his request, and David is horrified by this news. |
| 1:8 | David asks the messenger who he is, and the messenger replies that he is an Amalekite. |
| 1:9 | David asks the messenger why he was not afraid to lift his hand to destroy the Lord's anointed, and the messenger replies that he did it to end Saul's suffering. |
| 1:10 | David has the messenger executed, demonstrating his commitment to upholding God's standards and respecting His authority. |
3. The Execution of the Amalekite Messenger (1:11-16)
| 1:11 | David and his men mourn and fast until evening, showing respect for the fallen king. |
| 1:12 | David asks the messenger why he was not afraid to lift his hand to destroy the Lord's anointed, and the messenger replies that he did it to end Saul's suffering. |
| 1:13 | David has the messenger executed, demonstrating his commitment to upholding God's standards and respecting His authority. |
| 1:14 | David says, "How is it you were not afraid to lift your hand to destroy the Lord's anointed?" |
| 1:15 | The messenger is executed, and David demonstrates his commitment to upholding God's standards and respecting His authority. |
| 1:16 | David says, "Your blood is on your own head, for your own mouth has testified against you, saying, 'I have killed the Lord's anointed.'" |
4. David's Lament over Saul and Jonathan (1:17-27)
| 1:17 | David composes a lament over Saul and Jonathan, praising their bravery and mourning their loss. |
| 1:18 | David orders that the lament be taught to the people of Judah, and that it be written in the Book of Jashar. |
| 1:19 | David says, "Your glory, O Israel, lies slain on your heights. How the mighty have fallen!" |
| 1:20 | David tells the messengers not to tell the news of Saul's death to the daughters of the Philistines, lest they rejoice. |
| 1:21 | David curses the mountains of Gilboa, where Saul and Jonathan died, and says, "May you have neither dew nor rain, nor fields that yield offerings of grain." |
| 1:22 | David says, "From the blood of the slain, from the flesh of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan did not turn back, nor did the sword of Saul return empty." |
| 1:23 | David says, "Saul and Jonathan, in life they were loved and admired, and in death they were not parted. They were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions." |
| 1:24 | David says, "O daughters of Israel, weep for Saul, who clothed you in scarlet and finery, who adorned your garments with ornaments of gold." |
| 1:25 | David says, "How the mighty have fallen in the midst of the battle! Jonathan lies slain on your heights. |
| 1:26 | I grieve for you, Jonathan, my brother. You were very dear to me. Your love for me was wonderful, more wonderful than that of women. |
| 1:27 | How the mighty have fallen! The weapons of war have perished!" |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Amalekite messenger's role in this chapter?
The Amalekite messenger serves as a catalyst for the events of the chapter, bringing the news of Saul's death to David and sparking his reaction. In 2 Samuel 1:1-5, the messenger's arrival sets the stage for the rest of the chapter, highlighting the significance of the event and the importance of respecting God's sovereignty.
Why does David have the Amalekite messenger executed?
David has the messenger executed because he claims to have killed Saul, who was the Lord's anointed. In 2 Samuel 1:14-16, David says, "How is it you were not afraid to lift your hand to destroy the Lord's anointed?" This demonstrates David's commitment to upholding God's standards and respecting His authority.
What is the significance of David's lament over Saul and Jonathan?
David's lament is a beautiful expression of grief and praise, highlighting the bravery and accomplishments of Saul and Jonathan. In 2 Samuel 1:17-27, the lament serves as a reminder of the significance of the event and the importance of acknowledging sorrow and finding ways to express it in a healthy and constructive manner.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 Samuel 1:1 → 1 Samuel 31:1-13 | The death of Saul is described in both 1 Samuel 31 and 2 Samuel 1, highlighting the significance of the event and the importance of respecting God's sovereignty. |
| 2 | 2 Samuel 1:14 → 1 Samuel 24:6 | David's respect for the office of king is seen in both 1 Samuel 24 and 2 Samuel 1, as he refuses to kill Saul despite having the opportunity. |
| 3 | 2 Samuel 1:17 → 2 Samuel 22:1-51 | David's lament over Saul and Jonathan is similar to his psalm of praise in 2 Samuel 22, highlighting his emotional depth and his ability to express his feelings in a healthy and constructive manner. |
| 4 | 2 Samuel 1:20 → Psalms 68:11 | The daughters of the Philistines are mentioned in both 2 Samuel 1 and Psalms 68, highlighting the significance of the event and the importance of respecting God's sovereignty. |
| 5 | 2 Samuel 1:22 → Proverbs 21:31 | The idea that the bow of Jonathan did not turn back is similar to the proverb in Proverbs 21, which says that the horse is prepared for the day of battle, but victory belongs to the Lord. |
| 6 | 2 Samuel 1:23 → Song of Solomon 1:2-4 | The description of Saul and Jonathan as being loved and admired is similar to the description of the beloved in Song of Solomon, highlighting the beauty and significance of their relationship. |
| 7 | 2 Samuel 1:25 → 2 Samuel 18:33 | The phrase "How the mighty have fallen" is used in both 2 Samuel 1 and 2 Samuel 18, highlighting the significance of the event and the importance of respecting God's sovereignty. |
| 8 | 2 Samuel 1:26 → John 15:13 | The idea that Jonathan's love for David was wonderful is similar to Jesus' statement that there is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends, highlighting the significance of their relationship and the importance of selfless love. |
| 9 | 2 Samuel 1:27 → Ezekiel 32:24 | The phrase "How the mighty have fallen" is used in both 2 Samuel 1 and Ezekiel 32, highlighting the significance of the event and the importance of respecting God's sovereignty. |
| 10 | 2 Samuel 1:1-27 → Acts 13:22 | The events of 2 Samuel 1 are referenced in Acts 13, where Paul says that God removed Saul and raised up David as king, highlighting the significance of the event and the importance of respecting God's sovereignty. |
Sermons on 2 Samuel 1
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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David - Raised Up by God by Devern Fromke | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the contrast between man's way of achieving and fulfilling God's will and God's way. He uses the examples of Saul, who was chosen by the peop |
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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 |
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A Leaders Worst Nightmare by Alan Stewart | Alan Stewart delivers a powerful sermon titled 'A Leader's Worst Nightmare,' reflecting on the life of King Saul as a cautionary tale for leaders in ministry. He emphasizes the imp |
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Wonderful by Phil Clarkson | In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing Isaiah Chapter 9 and emphasizes the solemn responsibility of addressing an audience. He highlights the importance of not wasting p |
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Loyalty by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the character of Jonathan from the Bible and how his loyalty to God and his faith inspired others. The speaker emphasizes the importance of e |
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David Gaining Strength and Encouragement in the Lord Part 1 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith begins by discussing the closing events of 1 Samuel, which include the death of Saul and his sons at the hands of the Philistines. He then transi |
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Enemies in Ministry by David Guzik | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of loving and serving others, even in the face of conflict and criticism. They share their personal experience of dealing with |
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(1 Samuel) How to Be Free From Bitterness by David Guzik | In this sermon, the speaker uses the analogy of river rafting to illustrate the journey of walking with God. He emphasizes the importance of suffering courageously for the Lord in |
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David Lamenting Over the Death of Saul Part 2 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith reflects on the lamentation of David over the death of Saul. He emphasizes the beauty and might of Israel that has been lost. Pastor Chuck also m |
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David Lamenting Over the Death of Saul Part 1 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the importance of not allowing grief and sorrow to consume our lives. He uses the example of David lamenting over the death of Saul to |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 2 Samuel 1
In this chapter, we see the tragic end of King Saul, who was once anointed by God but ultimately fell into sin and disobedience. The Amalekite messenger brings the news of Saul's death to David, who is filled with grief and sorrow. David's reaction to the news is a testament to his respect for the office of king and his commitment to upholding God's standards. The execution of the Amalekite messenger serves as a reminder of the consequences of sinning against God, and David's lament over Saul and Jonathan is a beautiful expression of grief and praise. As we reflect on this chapter, we are called to examine our own hearts and to consider how we can demonstrate respect for God's authority in our own lives. We are also reminded of the importance of mourning and lamenting the loss of those who have gone before us, and of finding ways to express our grief in a healthy and constructive manner. In 2 Samuel 1:14, David says, "How is it you were not afraid to lift your hand to destroy the Lord's anointed?" This verse serves as a reminder of the sacred nature of the office of king and the importance of respecting God's sovereignty. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
David's Respect for the Office of King
Despite Saul's pursuit of him, David shows respect for the office of king and mourns his death. This demonstrates David's commitment to God's sovereignty and his understanding of the sacred nature of the office.
The Consequences of Sin
The chapter highlights the consequences of sinning against God, as seen in the execution of the Amalekite messenger. This serves as a reminder of the importance of obeying God's commands and respecting His authority.
The Power of Lament
The lament in 2 Samuel 1:17-27 is a powerful expression of grief and praise. It demonstrates the importance of acknowledging sorrow and finding ways to express it in a healthy and constructive manner.