The King Beneath the Tangled Crown (Part 2)
Shepherd. Outcast. Giant-killer. Warrior. Poet. Fugitive. King. Sinner. Man after God’s own heart. Welcome to our new series, an in-depth exploration of the life—and many hats—of David.
Opening Question: Have you ever felt like an outcast? If you feel comfortable, talk about a time when you felt left out.
Read 1 Samuel 16:1-7.
1.Why did Samuel assume Eliab was the son of Jesse destined to be king?
2. In verse 7, God says that He “does not look at the things people look at…the Lord looks at the heart.” Does this give you reassurance? Do you find it difficult to accept this truth? Discuss.
3. In what areas of your life have you had to “look at the heart” instead of “outward appearance” in someone else? Why can this be so hard to do?
Read 1 Samuel 16:8-12.
4. Why do you think that Jesse intentionally had David stay in the field with the sheep?
Read verse 18 in the same passage.
5. What do you make of David’s age and ability? Does he sound too young to be considered to become king? Why do you think we miss this?
In the podcast and sermon, Pete offers some of the possible understandings for why Jesse doesn’t consider David with his other sons. We can conclude that it wasn’t because of his age, ability, or even his physical appearance. One of the more compelling explanations is that David is the source of some shame.
6. How does this reframe what we think of David’s story?
7. How does this reframe what we think of shame—that God saw David as a “man after His own heart”?
Reflection:
This week, reflect on this scripture and the following question based on it.
“The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7)
What are you holding onto that may be keeping you from seeing yourself the way God sees you?
(*Video available after Sunday services)
