2 Samuel 6

Jim Butler2 Samuel 6

God's holiness and the regulation of his worship stand at the center of 2 Samuel 6. The chapter presents two attempts to bring the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem: the first interrupted by the death of Uzzah for transgressing explicit Mosaic law, and the second completed with sacrificial worship, joy, and dancing. The narrative teaches that sincere motives and good intentions are always subordinate to the commandment of God, and that right worship is neither invented by the worshiper nor shaped by cultural preference, but governed by the Word of God alone. David's response to Michael's contempt further illustrates the contrast between genuine, humble devotion and the cold externalism of an unconverted heart.