Theme: Building the kingdom of God.

COMMENTARY

Old Testament: 2 Samuel 7:1-14a
Some scholars judge chapter 7 to be an insertion from a later period. The purpose of this text is to explain why King David did not construct the temple. The setting for this pericope finds David victorious over his enemies; he has built himself an ornate palace and wants to build the Lord a worthy dwelling. At that time, the Ark of the Covenant was housed in a tent. David reveals his plan to Nathan, the prophet, who initially gives the go-ahead. Afterward, the Lord informs Nathan that David is not to build the temple. God submits that he never needed a temple, as he moved about with his people. In verse 11, we find a word play on the word translated "house." Instead of David building God a house, God is going…