Second Samuel closes with an overview of King David’s reflections over a time of crisis in his life. We also see how, ultimately, the moral and spiritual life of a leader can affect the moral and spiritual state of those who are under that leader. Sadly, David’s poor choices regarding sin and his negligence as a father took place at the height of his greatness. Fortunately, when David was confronted with his sins, he confessed them. This contrasts strongly with King Saul, who failed to acknowledge his sinful ways.First Kings opens with the last days of David’s life and the beginning of Solomon’s reign.

Things to Watch for

• Note all the different things David thanks God for in 2 Samuel 22.
• Second Samuel 24:18-25 describes an interesting conversation between David and Araunah. What does David’s comment in verse 24 tell us about his character?
• Note David’s charge to Solomon in 1 Kings 2:1-4. Keep this charge in mind as you read the rest of 1 Kings.

Applications from 2 Samuel and 1 Kings

• Even when life is going well and we are spiritually strong, we are still vulnerable to sin and making poor choices. David’s failure at the height of his prosperity serves as an important lesson to us.
• After reading 2 Samuel 22, think back to the most recent crisis you experienced. How did God help you during that time, and what praises can you give Him?
• If you are a parent or you are in some other position of influence, realize that your spiritual condition can have in impact on those under your charge.

In John chapters 20—21 Jesus makes a series of appearances after His resurrection, and these appearances serve as a wonderful testimony that He did indeed conquer death. John concludes his Gospel by saying the world could not contain the books that could have been written about all Jesus had done. People must choose to either accept the Bible’s claims about Jesus, or reject them.In Acts chapter 1-5 we see the birth of the church and the coming of the Holy Spirit. Acts 1:8 reveals the way in which the church will grow, and Acts 2:43-47 speaks of what life was like in the earliest days of the church.

Things to Watch for

• What evidences do you see of Jesus’ divine nature in John chapters 20—21?
• As you make your way through Acts, note how everything begins in Jerusalem, and how, as time goes on, the apostles and the gospel message spread outward.
• What are some key points of Peter’s sermon in Acts 3:13-26?
• In Acts 4, how did the disciples respond when they were told to stop speaking about Jesus?

Applications from John and Acts

• Note Jesus’ forgiveness of Peter in John chapter 21. How are you doing in the area of forgiveness—have you extended it freely, or have you been reluctant to grant it?
• Based on Jesus’ commission in Acts 1:8 and the actions of the early church in Acts 2—3, what are the priorities of the church (and Christians)?
• Note how the disciples responded to persecution in Acts 4. Observe not only their words, but their attitudes toward those who opposed them. What can we learn from this?

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