Synopsis of the Chapter
David, wishing to build a temple, hears from Nathan that this building is reserved by God for his son Solomon, and that therefore a long posterity in the kingdom is promised to him. For this he gives great thanks to God.
Verse 9: I Have Given a Place to My People Israel ¶
9. AND I HAVE GIVEN A PLACE TO MY PEOPLE ISRAEL — (in Canaan, after expelling its former inhabitants, namely the wicked Canaanites, in which) THEY SHALL BE PLANTED — that is, they shall dwell firmly like a plant and a tree solidly rooted in their own land, so as not to be torn away from it, nor reduced to servitude by the Midianites, Ammonites, Moabites, Syrians, or Philistines, as they were reduced many times during the period of the Judges, as follows. Understand and supply the usual condition: namely, if Israel worships Me as their God and does not turn to idols and vices; hence because after David they did turn away, they were deservedly at last given over by God as prey to the nations, especially the Assyrians and Babylonians.
Verse 25: You Have Revealed to Your Servant's Ear ¶
25. YOU HAVE REVEALED TO YOUR SERVANT'S EAR — that is, You have graciously and secretly revealed to me, as to Your friend, and as if whispered in my ear, the magnificent blessings which You have promised me, which I recount here.