Useful Bible Studies > 2 Samuel Commentary > chapter 23
David now describes the perfect rule of God’s future king, who is called the Messiah.
In his first description, Messiah’s perfect rule comes to the earth like the first light of the dawn. The night has ended, and the sun rises in a sky without clouds.
People’s evil deeds are like the darkness of night (Isaiah 9:2). So, Messiah’s rule ends the power of evil deeds over our world. His government is like the start of a new day that brings hope and joy to people (Isaiah 11:1-10; Isaiah 60:1-3; 1 Thessalonians 5:3-8). As the day progresses, the light and heat from the sun increase. In the same way, Messiah’s government will not disappoint the people who put their hope in him. He will achieve all that he has promised.
In the second description, the sun comes after rain. The rain has brought water to the dry earth. Then, when the sun shines, plants begin to grow (Isaiah 35:1).
In the same way, people’s evil deeds brought death into our world (Genesis 3:17-19; Romans 6:23). However, Messiah’s rule brings new life (Ezekiel 47:1-12). What God is creating is new and wonderful (Isaiah 65:17-35). He is changing everything by his power – and the rule of Messiah will bring it about.
The Messiah even defeats the power of death (Isaiah 25:7-8). So, God’s people who have died will live again (Job 19:25; 1 Corinthians 15:51-55).
Next part: David's three questions (2 Samuel 23:5)
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