Implication of divine protection in 2 Sam 23:7?
What does "touch them" in 2 Samuel 23:7 imply about divine protection?

The Setting in David’s Final Oracle

2 Samuel 23:6-7 is part of David’s last recorded words. After celebrating the blessings of a righteous ruler (vv. 3-5), he contrasts that rule with the fate of the “worthless.”

“ ‘But worthless men are all like thorns that are thrown away, for they cannot be picked up with the hand; the man who touches them must be armed with iron and the shaft of a spear, and they will be completely burned with fire in their place.’ ” (2 Samuel 23:6-7)


Understanding “touch them”

• “Touch” carries the idea of approaching, handling, or dealing with the wicked.

• Thorns illustrate danger—any contact without protection brings injury.

• The phrasing is literal (you need iron and a spear) yet also points beyond itself to a spiritual reality: only with God-given protection can the righteous confront evil.


What the Phrase Implies about Divine Protection

• God acknowledges the real harm the wicked can inflict; He never downplays it.

• He therefore equips His people with what is stronger than the threat:

– “iron” and “shaft of a spear” picture sturdy, effective defense.

– Spiritually, this anticipates “the full armor of God” (Ephesians 6:10-17).

• Approach is possible, but only on God’s terms. We are not called to retreat in fear; we are called to rely on His protection.

• God’s protection is two-fold:

1. Preserving the righteous from being pierced by “thorns.”

2. Ensuring ultimate judgment—“they will be completely burned with fire in their place.” The wicked cannot escape His justice.


Supporting Scriptures

Psalm 91:7-10—“A thousand may fall at your side… no evil will conquer you.”

Psalm 118:12—“They surrounded me like bees; they were extinguished like burning thorns.”

Isaiah 54:17—“No weapon formed against you shall prosper.”

Proverbs 2:7-8—“He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk in integrity.”

2 Thessalonians 3:3—“The Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one.”


Living in the Confidence of His Protection

• Evil is real and prickly, yet never sovereign.

• We meet it clothed in God’s provision—Word, Spirit, righteousness, faith.

• Divine protection is not passive; it readies us to stand, confront, and overcome.

• The final outcome is secure: the thorns that threaten today will be burned tomorrow, while those who trust the Lord remain unharmed and victorious.

How does 2 Samuel 23:7 illustrate consequences of opposing God's anointed leaders?
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