The King Beneath the Tangled Crown (Part 9: A Man After God’s Own Heart)
Shepherd. Outcast. Poet. Giant-killer. Warrior. Fugitive. King. Sinner. Man after God’s own heart. This week we conclude this series, an in-depth exploration of the life—and many hats—of David.
1. In this series, we studied David as shepherd, outcast, poet, giant-slayer, warrior, fugitive, king, sinner, man after God’s own heart. What has been your favorite “crown” (above) of David that we’ve studied during this series? What has been the most challenging for you? Why?
This week, Pete examined some of these crowns of David, to show how David is an imperfect preview of Jesus, who wears the true crown as the true King. Below, discuss the contrast between David and Jesus using some quotes and scripture from Sunday’s sermon.
“David was an outcast before he was king. Jesus identified with outcasts so much that he was an Outcast King.”
Reference: John 13:1-17
2. After discussing any thoughts this quote and scripture bring up, how can we follow the path of Jesus here, refusing to bow before the influential or powerful, but instead serve those who are insignificant or outcast?
“David gained victory by shedding the blood of others, while Jesus gained victory (for all) by shedding His own blood.”
Reference: John 10:14-18
3. While David overcame his fugitive status, Jesus allowed Himself to be captured by His enemies. How should this contrast inform our lives today?
“David was a shepherd until his sin made him into a wolf. Jesus takes away our sin as the Lamb, that He might become our Shepherd.”
References: John 1:29-31; John 10:1-13
4. How does the influence of power negatively impact David, causing him to go from shepherd to wolf?
5. What does Jesus’ rejection of worldly power say to you about what is truly valuable?
To close, read John 10:1-6 again.
6. How can we listen to the voice of the Good Shepherd over the many voices of the world?
7. How can the members of your group help you in this?
(*Video available after Sunday services)
