What actions demonstrate God's greatness in 2 Samuel 7:23? Setting the Scene “ ‘And who is like Your people Israel—the one nation on earth whom God went out to redeem as a people for Himself and to make a name for Himself—doing great and awesome wonders by driving out nations and their gods from before Your people, whom You redeemed from Egypt?’ ” (2 Samuel 7:23) Four Actions That Showcase God’s Greatness • Redeeming a People for Himself – God personally “went out to redeem” Israel, stepping into history with power and purpose (Exodus 6:6). – Redemption revealed His heart: He buys back what sin and bondage had claimed, prefiguring the ultimate redemption accomplished through Christ (Ephesians 1:7). • Making a Name for Himself – Every miracle, every deliverance forged an unmistakable reputation that “the LORD, He is God” (1 Kings 8:60). – Isaiah 63:12–14 connects this same theme: God’s mighty acts “made for Himself an everlasting name,” ensuring no rival could steal His glory. • Performing Great and Awesome Wonders – Think plagues in Egypt (Exodus 7–12), the Red Sea parted (Exodus 14), manna in the wilderness (Exodus 16). – These wonders weren’t party tricks; they authenticated His covenant promises, proved His supremacy over idols (Jeremiah 10:6), and built Israel’s faith. • Driving Out Nations and Their Gods – The conquest of Canaan displayed power over both human armies and false deities (Deuteronomy 7:1–6; Joshua 24:11). – By clearing the land, He provided a holy space where His people could worship without compromise (Exodus 23:24–25), foreshadowing Christ’s ultimate victory over every spiritual foe (Colossians 2:15). Why It Matters • God’s greatness is not abstract; it’s demonstrated in concrete acts of salvation, judgment, and provision. • The same God who redeemed, made a name, performed wonders, and drove out enemies for Israel still acts with that power for His people today (Hebrews 13:8). • Remembering these actions fuels worship, anchors trust, and calls believers to live distinctly in a world crowded with lesser “gods.” |
    |