2 Samuel 7:1-24
In our reading, we now approach a new theme that arises in the narrative of the Bible. We have seen how God calls a people to himself, not because of anything that they have done, but because they are graciously elected. This people is raised up to be a 'display people' who show what it looks like to live under the faithfulness of God. Secondly, we have seen how God brings his people, and ultimately, his Son, through the crisis of death and judgment. The path of new life is not one of uninterrupted progress, but a path of sacrifice and suffering. Ultimately, Jesus fulfills this path by his death on the cross.
Now we turn to the theme of the coming kingdom. God's ultimate vision for his world is not simply a people chosen but not fulfilled. He seeks to bring about a completion of what he has done. He is building a kingdom that will last forever.
And again, it begins with a promise. Like Abraham receiving the promise that he would 'be a people', David receives a promise that through him, God will establish a kingdom that will have no end. And to this king, one day every knee will bow.
The vision of the coming kingdom in the Old and New Testament is a vision that is 'now but not yet'. We await the fulfillment of God's work in a new world where shalom, justice and God's rule is effectively known and lived.
Prayer: We thank you Lord that you do not simply promise us a personal spiritual renewal. Instead, you promise that you will bring about a new cosmos, where your will is done on earth, as it is in heaven. Amen.
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