“The Splendor of Holiness”

Tuesday, June 28, 2022

BIBLE READING: 2 Samuel 5-6

“Nevertheless, David took the stronghold of Zion, that is, the city of David… And David lived in the stronghold and called it the city of David…” (2 Samuel 5.7, 9)

The relocation of the capitol from Hebron to Zion was politically strategic, providing geographically neutral location for the national headquarters. But this location also had profound spiritual significance. The Jebusite fortress had been neglected in the initial conquest of Canaan (Joshua 15.63; Judges 1.21), thus leaving God’s command undone (Deuteronomy 20.17). This first act as king established the critical precedent of following God’s lead; a precedent that had been rejected when the people demanded a king (compare 1 Samuel 8.20 and 2 Samuel 5.24). Following this, David’s choices to inquire of the LORD (5.19, 23), bring the ark to Jerusalem (6.15) and lead the people in worship to God (6.16-19) reminded the people who was leading Israel.

David’s coronation was both unifying and invigorating for the nation. But during these events, something strange happens. David called for the ark to be brought to Zion with much pageantry and procession (2 Samuel 6.1-4). But during the celebration, an ox stumbled, the ark began to slide off the cart and Uzzah reached out to stabilize it. “And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Uzzah, and God struck him down there because of his error and he died…” (2 Samuel 6.7).

At first glance, God’s response is puzzling, but forces us to consider an issue of great import: God's holiness had been ignored. In his writings, Samuel has shown the ark was more than just a symbol. It was “the ark of God, which is called by the name of the LORD of hosts who sits enthroned on the cherubim” (2 Samuel 6.2). In previous episodes from Samuel, Israel mistook the ark for a good luck token. But they were promptly defeated and the ark captured by the Philistines (1 Samuel 4.1-11). It was put in the temple of their god, Dagon, who was both destroyed and humiliated by God’s presence (1 Samuel 5.1-5). The ark’s presence among the Philistines led to affliction and panic and became so terrible they begged Israel to take it back (1 Samuel 5.6-6.9). In the end we are reminded that God has no rival. He needs no one to defend his honor. He is the only Sovereign God who is holy.

The insertion of another ark episode in this critical point in David’s kingdom draws our attention back to the presence of God. He was the reason for their success, but it was not simply for their pleasure. He must be considered and respected.  His holiness demands it.

For God’s people, his holiness must always be a primary consideration, especially in areas of worship and service. Enthusiasm must always be tempered by submission if we will enjoy the blessing of God’s presence. We do not naturally understand holiness and must be taught (Titus 2.12). Just as David’s success was directed by God, so also his praise must be. Although God desires us to know him and be his people, it must be on his terms, with consideration for his holiness. He deserves it and he demands it. 

“Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; worship the LORD in the splendor of holiness.” (Psalm 29.2)

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