2 Samuel 5: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 Samuel 5 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

All the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron and acknowledged him as their own. They noted that David had led them during Saul's reign, affirming Yahweh’s choice of him as their shepherd and prince (vv. 1-2).

Key verse

“David perceived that Yahweh had established him king over Israel, and that he had exalted his kingdom for his people Israel’s sake.”
2 Samuel 5:12 (WEB)

Outline

2 Samuel 5:1–3 David Anointed King Over Israel
2 Samuel 5:4–5 David's Reign Established
2 Samuel 5:6–9 Capture of Jerusalem
2 Samuel 5:10–12 David's Growing Kingdom
2 Samuel 5:13–16 David's Family Expands
2 Samuel 5:17–21 Philistine Threat
2 Samuel 5:22–25 Further Victory Over Philistines

Discussion questions

In v3, what do the elders of Israel say to David during their visit?
What does David do with the Jebusites in v6 to claim Jerusalem?
David's military strategy in vv. 23-24: why does God instruct him to circle around?
In v12, what does David understand about his kingship and its purpose for Israel?
When has a significant victory led you to unnecessary conflict like David faced with the Philistines?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Samuel 5: 1 Chronicles 14, 1 Chronicles 11, 1 Samuel 30.

Before next time: read 2 Samuel 6.