What does this verse teach about obedience and submission to God's appointed leaders? Setting the Scene • Israel is under judgment because King David ordered a census (2 Samuel 24:1–17). • God directs David to build an altar on Araunah’s threshing floor to halt the plague (v. 18). • As David approaches, “Araunah looked and saw the king and his servants coming toward him; he went out and bowed face down before the king” (2 Samuel 24:20). Observations from 2 Samuel 24:20 • Immediate recognition—Araunah “looked and saw” the king; no delay in acknowledging authority. • Physical posture—bowing face-down signals humble respect. • Public act—his submission is visible to servants and onlookers, modeling obedience for others. What Araunah’s Response Reveals about Submission • Submission is proactive, not reluctant. Araunah steps out to meet David before any request is made. • Honor is expressed both inwardly (heart attitude) and outwardly (visible actions). • Obedience to God often shows up in how we treat the authorities He installs (cf. 1 Samuel 24:6). Linking Scripture with Scripture • Romans 13:1 – “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God.” • Hebrews 13:17 – “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls.” • 1 Peter 2:13-14 – “Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority… whether to the king as supreme or to governors.” • Proverbs 21:1 – “The king’s heart is a watercourse in the hand of the LORD; He directs it wherever He pleases.” • Matthew 8:9-10 – The centurion understands authority; Jesus commends his faith. Araunah shows the same grasp of delegated authority. Practical Takeaways for Today • Recognize God’s hand behind earthly leadership—even imperfect leaders like David at this moment. • Respond promptly and respectfully; delaying honor can reveal a resistant heart. • Model submission for those under your influence: family, coworkers, fellow believers. • Remember that honoring leaders ultimately honors God, the source of all authority. Summary of the Lesson 2 Samuel 24:20 illustrates that genuine obedience and submission involve quick recognition of God-appointed authority, humble respect expressed in word and deed, and a willingness to serve without hesitation. Araunah’s example aligns with the broader biblical call to “submit… for the Lord’s sake” (1 Peter 2:13), showing that honoring God and honoring His delegated leaders are inseparable. |
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