Preface

The story of David and his household occupies a highly significant place in the canon of Holy Scripture. It is full of deep interest and wholesome instruction to those of all ages and can be viewed, with much profit, historically, practically, pictorially and dispensationally. An overview of the journey of David “from the sheepfolds” Ps.78.70, his anointing by Samuel the prophet “in the midst of his brethren” 1Sam.16.13, his forty years upon the throne, 2Sam.5.4,5, to the moment when he “slept with his fathers” 1Kgs.2.10, reveals much of God’s infinite purpose, inexhaustible grace and irresistible power. These lovely features must also be considered in light of the One Who came “forth a Rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch … out of his roots” Isa.11.1, and Who was “born … in the city of David a Saviour, which [Who] is Christ the Lord” Lk.2.11. With an eye on the future we ponder with joyful anticipation the unfailing promise, “I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem. And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the Spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon Me whom they have pierced” Zech.12.9,10. What a moment, when the nation of Israel, as represented by the house of David, eventually accords the Messiah the recognition He rightly deserves!

It is our desire that this latest book in the ‘Glory’ series will stimulate a healthy interest in these informative matters in relation to the house of David “written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope” Rom.15.4. We are again deeply indebted to our God for every enabling grace that makes this publication possible; it is our prayerful exercise that it will be for His glory and the blessing of all who read it.

Once more it is essential to place on record our appreciation to the authors for their willing and sacrificial contributions. They have liberally given of their time and earnest endeavour at a considerable cost not only to themselves but also to their families and loved ones. More importantly, all falls under Divine scrutiny; let us ever remember that “God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward His name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister” Heb.6.10.

It is also important to restate that each author has written his chapter independently of each other as led by the gracious Holy Spirit; the Lord Jesus said of Him, “when He … is come, He will guide you into all truth” Jn.16.13. As always, the Word of God remains the sole benchmark against which everything written in this book should be judged.

In a similar vein, it would be very remiss of the Committee of ‘Assembly Testimony’1 not to recognise the invaluable contributions of all who have toiled behind the scenes to make this and previous publications available. These include the dedicated proof-readers and all involved in the preparation of these books, and their distribution to a diverse and widely-cast readership.

While it is highly beneficial to reflect upon the experiences of David, including those less commendable features of his life, our primary aim is to stimulate reflections of our Lord Jesus, both historically and futuristically, looking onward to that day when He will reign “from the River even to the ends of the earth” Zech.9.10, and “the government shall be upon His shoulder” Isa.9.6. With such a blessed prospect in view may our affections be stirred in fresh devotion to Him Who is “the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star” Rev.22.16.

Jack Palmer, N. Ireland, January 2024

1 ‘Assembly Testimony’ is a bi-monthly magazine which is available on request from: John Gordon, ‘Elhanan’, 25 The Rowans, Banbridge, Co Down, BT32 4DQ, N. Ireland. His email address is: johngordon-at[at]hotmail[dot]co[dot]uk