A Major Disappointment
|
It was David’s dream to build a permanent structure to house the ark of the covenant. He therefore asked the prophet Nathan if this action would be acceptable to God. “This is the first mention of Nathan the prophet, but he was evidently already a confidential counselor of the king, to be consulted on important matters in which David desired specific directions from God.” The original tabernacle had been at Gibeon (1 Chronicles 21:29; 2 Chronicles 1:3–6). The ark was now in Jerusalem. David believed the central house of worship should be in the capital. Nathan was of the same mind and told David to move forward with his plan (2 Samuel 7:3). That night Nathan received definitive instruction, and God’s answer was no! Nathan had to retract his previous support. “The reason why David was not to build the temple was declared: ‘Thou hast shed blood abundantly, and hast made great wars: thou shalt not build a house unto My name. . . . Behold, a son shall be born to thee, who shall be a man of rest; and I will give him rest from all his enemies: . . . his name shall be Solomon [peaceable], and I will give peace and quietness unto Israel in his days. He shall build a house for My name.’ 1 Chronicles 22:8-10.” It had been about 450 years since the Exodus, and the tabernacle had moved when the Israelites moved.
A few more years of temporary housing would make little difference.
“David was a servant of God and had himself spoken by inspiration, as in the composition of his psalms. To him also applied the title ‘prophet’ (Acts 2:30). On this occasion the Lord chose to speak to him not directly, but through another prophet. God works through different individuals and divine light comes through various channels.” It is our responsibility to test prophetic messages for authenticity (Numbers 12:6).
Could you, as did Nathan, retract a previous statement and admit you were wrong?
