Ask the Lord
* CONGREGATIONAL READING: 2 Samuel 2:1-32 *
I. BASIC INTRODUCTION AS WE WORSHIP
Why are We Here?
How are We to Do So?
The Two “Whats”
II. BRIEF EXPOSITION OF THE CHAPTER
Anointing David as King in Judah, 2 Sam 2:1-7
Abner Makes Ishbosheth King in Mahanaim, 2 Sam 2:8-11
A War Arises Between Israel & Judah, 2 Sam 2:12-32
III. BLESSED EXHORTATION FROM OUR TEXT
Ask with Clear Purpose
A. David's example, v1 (1 Sam 16:13)
B. David's opposition, vv8-11 (Eph 6:12)
C. David's struggle, vv12-32 (Gal 5:17; 2 Cor 10:3-4)
Ask with Correct Motives
A. ask in faith, Jas 1:6-8
B. ask not according to the flesh, Jas 4:2-3
Ask in Christ's Name
A. the Lord's name, John 14:13-14
1. consistent with Christ's example
a. at Lazarus' resurrection, John 11:41-42 (Jn 11:6, 13-14)
b. in Gethsemane's garden, Matt 26:39 (Matt 16:21)
2. consistent with Christ's character
a. John 8:29b
3. condition by Christ's presence
a. John 8:29a; Heb 13:5
B. the Lord's blessing
1. transformed by Christ, Rom 8:28-29
a. in humility & obedience, Phil 2:8
b. in receiving spiritual nourishment, John 4:34
c. in pleasing our heavenly Father, John 8:29
2. testimony for Christ, John 17:20-21