2 Samuel 3:18

Now then do [it]: for the LORD hath spoken of David, saying, By the hand of my servant David I will save my people Israel out of the hand of the Philistines, and out of the hand of all their enemies.

Now then do {H6213} it: for the LORD {H3068} hath spoken {H559} of David {H1732}, saying {H559}, By the hand {H3027} of my servant {H5650} David {H1732} I will save {H3467} my people {H5971} Israel {H3478} out of the hand {H3027} of the Philistines {H6430}, and out of the hand {H3027} of all their enemies {H341}.

So now, do it. For ADONAI has said of David, 'Through my servant David I will rescue my people Isra'el from the power of the P'lishtim and from the power of all their enemies.'"

Now take action, because the LORD has said to David, ‘Through My servant David I will save My people Israel from the hands of the Philistines and of all their enemies.’”

now then do it; for Jehovah hath spoken of David, saying, By the hand of my servant David I will save my people Israel out of the hand of the Philistines, and out of the hand of all their enemies.

Commentary

2 Samuel 3:18 is a pivotal verse in the narrative of David's ascent to the throne, as it highlights the divine mandate behind his kingship and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people, Israel.

Context

This verse is spoken by Abner, formerly the commander of Saul's army and a key supporter of Saul's son, Ish-bosheth, who was vying for the throne against David. Abner is addressing the elders of Israel, particularly those from the northern tribes, encouraging them to shift their allegiance from Ish-bosheth to David. Abner’s motivation is complex, stemming partly from a personal dispute with Ish-bosheth and likely a pragmatic recognition of David's growing strength and divine favor. His appeal to the elders is not merely political; he grounds it in divine prophecy, reminding them that the LORD Himself had foretold David's role as Israel's deliverer.

Key Themes

  • Divine Appointment of David: The core message is that David's kingship is not merely a human endeavor but a direct fulfillment of God's spoken word. Abner emphasizes, "for the LORD hath spoken of David," underscoring divine sovereignty in establishing leaders. This echoes David's earlier anointing by Samuel and the covenant God later establishes with David.
  • Deliverance and Salvation for Israel: God's explicit purpose for David is to "save my people Israel out of the hand of the Philistines, and out of the hand of all their enemies." This highlights David's primary role as a military deliverer, bringing security and peace to the nation from its persistent adversaries. The Philistines were a constant threat, and David's reign would mark a significant period of victory and expansion for Israel.
  • David as God's Servant: The phrase "my servant David" is a significant title, signifying David's humble submission to God's will and his role as an instrument in God's redemptive plan. This title is repeatedly used throughout Scripture to describe those specially chosen and used by God (e.g., Moses, prophets), and it elevates David's status beyond a mere earthly king.

Linguistic Insights

The term "save" (Hebrew: yasha') here denotes not just rescue from physical danger but often carries a broader sense of deliverance and liberation. It implies bringing prosperity, well-being, and security, which David's reign would largely achieve for Israel. The emphasis on "my servant David" (Hebrew: 'abdiy Dawid) is crucial. It underscores that David is acting under God's authority and by God's power, not his own strength. This divine endorsement validates Abner's appeal and solidifies David's claim to the throne.

Reflection and Application

This verse reminds us that God often works through human instruments to accomplish His divine purposes. Just as David was chosen to deliver Israel, God continues to use individuals today to fulfill His will and bring about His kingdom. It also speaks to the faithfulness of God in keeping His promises; what He has spoken, He will bring to pass. For believers, this offers comfort and encouragement, knowing that God's plans, though they may unfold through complex circumstances and human choices, will ultimately prevail. We are called to recognize God's hand in history and to trust in His sovereign plan, even when the path is unclear, much like the elders of Israel were now being asked to trust in David's divine appointment.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Samuel 15:28 (5 votes)

    And Samuel said unto him, The LORD hath rent the kingdom of Israel from thee this day, and hath given it to a neighbour of thine, [that is] better than thou.

  • Psalms 89:19 (4 votes)

    ¶ Then thou spakest in vision to thy holy one, and saidst, I have laid help upon [one that is] mighty; I have exalted [one] chosen out of the people.

  • Psalms 89:23 (4 votes)

    And I will beat down his foes before his face, and plague them that hate him.

  • Psalms 89:3 (3 votes)

    I have made a covenant with my chosen, I have sworn unto David my servant,

  • Psalms 89:4 (3 votes)

    Thy seed will I establish for ever, and build up thy throne to all generations. Selah.

  • 1 Samuel 13:14 (2 votes)

    But now thy kingdom shall not continue: the LORD hath sought him a man after his own heart, and the LORD hath commanded him [to be] captain over his people, because thou hast not kept [that] which the LORD commanded thee.

  • 2 Samuel 3:9 (2 votes)

    So do God to Abner, and more also, except, as the LORD hath sworn to David, even so I do to him;