Near the end of 2 Samuel, we come to the conclusion of David’s life. What does he sing to God and say to others as he concludes his life?
(2 Samuel 22)
Sermon Outline
“Therefore I will praise you, Lord, among the nations; I will sing the praises of your name.” (2 Samuel 22:50)
The Focus of Worship (2 Samuel 22—first take)
- Appropriate perspective on God and us
- Paying attention to God
- Paying attention to God amidst our life circumstances
- Worshiping God—saying who God is and what God does—amidst our life circumstances
The Language of Worship (2 Samuel 22—second take)
- David the warrior-king and psalmist-poet
- Why poetry is the language of worship
- Finding our voice in worship of God
Finding Our Own Song of Worship
- Worship God as worthy
- Worship God personally
- Worship God communally
- Worship with the saints forever
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- When have you most deeply or freely worshiped God? What prompted you? What happened?
- This week we conclude our sermon series, “The Pursuit of God” by looking at two of David’s closing songs in 2 Samuel 22. Begin your study in prayer, asking God to speak to you through the Scripture, and then read that passage aloud.
- What title or description most captures your imagination from the description of God in 22:1-3?
- What stands out to you most about situation of David described in verses 4-6?
- Behind the description in verses 7-20 is the story of the exodus from Egypt and revelation of God at Mount Sinai. Why would the writer include these references and how might it connect with David’s story? (You may want to consult that story in Exodus 19-20.)
- Since we have encountered the ups and downs of David’s story in our series this summer, how does that shape the way you read verses 21-30?
- Again, the writer returns attention to God in verses 31-37. What does God do and who is God as reflected in these verses?
- David is a man of war, and his experience of God is shaped by his context. What has David experienced God do on his behalf as recorded in verses 38-46?
- This song of praise ends with attention turning back to God again in verses 47-51. What stands out to you from these words?
- What is one thing you sense God speaking to you personally through this week’s study or through our entire series on the life of David? In small groups, discuss this together and then pray about what you shared. If you are on your own, write it down, pray about it, and consider sharing your thoughts with someone this week.
DIG DEEPER
- Memorize 2 Samuel 22:2-3 or 22:31-37 or 22:47
- As you read 2 Samuel 22, write 4 headings on a piece of paper and make notes as you read which verses reflect these headings:
- Description of God
- Action of God
- Situation of David
- Action of David
- What would it look like to write your own psalm of praise to God for God’s goodness and work in your life? Use this resource to help you.
- Explore some or all of these resources:
- Eugene Peterson, Leap Over a Wall: Earthy Spirituality for Everyday Christians
- Robert Alter, The David Story