GOD'S DWELLING PLACE

DECEMBER 22, 2025

2 Samuel 7:11b-13

“I will raise up your offspring to succeed you… and I will establish his kingdom. He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever.”

These words from God to David in 2 Samuel 7:12–13 carry a profound promise that lives in the tension of the “now and not yet.” On one level, we see this promise fulfilled in David’s son Solomon, who would indeed construct a house, a temple, for the dwelling of God’s glory. That temple was magnificent, becoming the standard by which all future temples would be compared.

Yet the promise stretches far beyond Solomon. In 2 Samuel 7:13, God declares, “I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever.” This is not merely a reference to David’s earthly dynasty or to Solomon’s reign, which lasted only for his lifetime. The Davidic kings reigned in Jerusalem for over four centuries, up until Zedekiah’s exile in 586 BCE, yet the term “forever” hints at something far beyond that span. It points to a throne and a kingdom without end, a reign that continues even now.

During the Advent season, we remember God’s promise, not only to bless David and his son Solomon, but to send a King from David’s line who would reign forever. David no longer reigns, nor does Solomon, and all the kings mentioned in the Old Testament have passed from power. Jesus came as King, as recorded in the Gospels in the accounts of His birth. He is the King in David’s line, still reigning today, and He will forever rule as King of kings.

Jesus said to Pilate, “My kingdom is not of this world.” His kingdom isn’t limited by physical boundaries but embraces all who follow him, trust in him, and live in the way of love.  What truly matters is remembering that God’s kingdom isn’t defined by a building, but by a community united in love, peace, and compassion. That's a temple, for the dwelling of God’s glory.