2 Chronicles 6:42 – “Lord God, do not reject your anointed one. Remember the great love promised to David your servant.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Solomon concludes his prayer of dedication for the temple by asking God not to reject His “anointed one” and to remember the “great love” that He promised to David. The “anointed one” refers to Solomon himself as king, but it also carries deeper significance, pointing to the ongoing Davidic line of kings, which God had promised would endure forever. Solomon is asking God to remain faithful to the covenant He made with David, where He promised that David’s descendants would always sit on the throne of Israel.
The phrase “remember the great love” is a call for God to honor His covenantal love (also known as “steadfast love” or “faithfulness”) that He swore to David. Solomon is essentially praying for God’s continued blessing and protection over the nation of Israel by keeping His promises to the house of David, ensuring the security and prosperity of the people.
Historical Context
At the time of this prayer, Solomon had just finished building the temple, fulfilling a desire that his father, King David, had expressed years before. David had wanted to build a house for the Lord, but God told him that his son would be the one to complete the task (1 Chronicles 17:4-12). God had made a covenant with David, promising him that his descendants would rule over Israel forever (2 Samuel 7:16).
The temple dedication was a momentous occasion for the nation, symbolizing the fulfillment of God’s promises to both David and Solomon. By referring to the “anointed one,” Solomon is reminding God of His promise to establish David’s throne and continue to bless his descendants. This prayer is deeply rooted in the history of Israel’s kingship, which was established under God’s divine guidance.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the importance of God’s covenant faithfulness. Solomon’s request for God to “remember the great love promised to David” reflects the biblical theme that God is faithful to His promises, even across generations. The covenant God made with David was not just a political agreement; it was rooted in God’s steadfast love and commitment to His people. Solomon’s prayer is a plea for God’s mercy and continued blessing, recognizing that Israel’s future depends on God’s faithfulness.
The verse also underscores the idea that God’s anointing—His choosing and blessing of individuals for leadership or specific roles—is sacred and meaningful. Solomon, as God’s “anointed one,” represents not just his own kingship but the continuation of God’s plan through David’s lineage. This carries a theological message that God’s purposes are often fulfilled through human leadership, which He establishes and sustains.
Literary Analysis
This verse has a pleading tone, with Solomon asking God to “not reject your anointed one.” The verb “reject” suggests that there is always the possibility of God’s favor being withdrawn if the people or the king fall into sin, which reflects the conditional aspect of God’s covenant with Israel. Yet, Solomon appeals to God’s promise to David, banking on God’s unwavering love and faithfulness.
The phrase “great love” is significant because it refers to God’s covenantal love (in Hebrew, hesed), which is often translated as “steadfast love” or “lovingkindness.” This kind of love is not based on merit but on God’s character and His promises. By asking God to “remember” this love, Solomon is reminding God (and the people listening to the prayer) of the long-term commitment God made to David and his descendants.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- 2 Samuel 7:16 – “Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever.” This verse is the foundational promise that God made to David regarding his dynasty.
- Psalm 132:10 – “For the sake of your servant David, do not reject your anointed one.” This verse parallels Solomon’s prayer and highlights the significance of God’s promises to David.
- Psalm 89:33-35 – “But I will not take my love from him, nor will I ever betray my faithfulness… I will not violate my covenant or alter what my lips have uttered.” This passage underscores the permanence of God’s covenant with David and His faithfulness to His promises.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness to His promises. Just as Solomon prayed for God to honor His covenant with David, we can trust that God keeps His promises to us as well. God’s faithfulness does not waver, even when circumstances are challenging or when we feel uncertain about the future.
This verse also encourages us to recognize that God’s plans often unfold over generations. The promise God made to David found its fulfillment not only in Solomon but in the ultimate “Anointed One,” Jesus Christ. God’s faithfulness transcends time, and His purposes are always accomplished.
Additionally, the verse reminds us to depend on God’s steadfast love, which is not based on our merit but on His covenant with us through Jesus. Just as Solomon depended on God’s promise to David, we can rely on God’s promises of forgiveness, salvation, and eternal life through Christ.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse highlights God’s love in the context of His faithfulness. By asking God to “remember the great love promised to David,” Solomon is appealing to God’s character as a loving, covenant-keeping God. This is not a fleeting or conditional love; it is a steadfast, enduring love that lasts through generations.
God’s love is also shown in His desire to bless and sustain His people through the leadership of His anointed one. God’s covenant with David was an expression of His love for Israel, and Solomon’s prayer is a recognition that this love remains the foundation of their relationship with God. Even when human leaders fail, God’s love and promises remain.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the true “Anointed One.” While Solomon prayed for God to continue blessing the Davidic line, Jesus is the final and perfect fulfillment of God’s promise to David. Jesus, as the Messiah, is the eternal King from David’s line whose reign will never end (Luke 1:32-33).
Through Jesus, God’s “great love” is fully revealed. The covenant love that Solomon prayed for reaches its highest expression in Jesus, who came to fulfill the promises made to David and to bring salvation to all people. Jesus is both the “Anointed One” and the embodiment of God’s steadfast love.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Solomon’s prayer for God to remember His promises encourage you to trust in God’s faithfulness in your own life?
- In what ways can you rely on God’s steadfast love, knowing that His promises are not based on your merit but on His character?
- How does the fulfillment of God’s covenant with David in Jesus give you confidence in God’s long-term plans for redemption?
- What does it mean for you to live in the reality of God’s promise-keeping nature, knowing that His love endures through generations?
- How can you apply the lessons from Solomon’s prayer in your own prayer life, seeking God’s guidance and relying on His faithfulness?