2 Samuel 6:13 – “When those who were carrying the ark of the Lord had taken six steps, he sacrificed a bull and a fattened calf.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, we see David’s new approach to transporting the Ark of the Covenant after the death of Uzzah. Instead of placing the Ark on a cart, as before, it was now being carried properly by Levites, as God had commanded. After just six steps, David stopped to offer sacrifices to God. This act demonstrated his reverence for God’s holiness and a recognition of the need to honor Him in every detail. David’s decision to sacrifice after such a short distance underscores his desire to ensure that this journey would be conducted in a way that pleased God.
Historical Context
The Ark of the Covenant was being moved from the house of Obed-Edom to Jerusalem, where David intended for it to be the focal point of Israel’s worship. After the tragic death of Uzzah for touching the Ark, David became more careful in following God’s specific instructions on how the Ark should be handled. According to Exodus 25:12-15, the Ark was to be carried on poles by the Levites, and no one was to touch it directly. The six steps followed by a sacrifice symbolized a fresh start and a clear commitment to do things God’s way. David wanted to make sure that the rest of the journey would honor the Lord.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights several important theological points. First, it shows that God is pleased when His people approach Him with reverence and obedience. David’s decision to sacrifice after only six steps reveals his understanding that every aspect of the Ark’s journey was sacred. It also shows that worship involves sacrifice. David didn’t take the Ark’s movement lightly, but instead, he acknowledged that coming before God requires offerings that reflect a heart of worship. Theologically, this teaches us that true worship isn’t about going through the motions; it’s about aligning ourselves with God’s instructions and offering our best to Him.
Literary Analysis
The verse is brief but loaded with symbolism. The mention of “six steps” suggests a measured and deliberate approach, contrasting with the earlier, more hurried attempt to transport the Ark. The sacrifice of a bull and a fattened calf indicates the seriousness of the occasion, symbolizing not just celebration but also atonement and dedication. The imagery of sacrifice and measured steps gives this moment a solemn, worshipful tone, preparing the way for the Ark’s triumphant arrival in Jerusalem. It highlights the care David took to do things according to God’s will this time.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 25:14-15: The command for how the Ark should be carried by Levites using poles, a detail that David followed in this second attempt.
- 1 Chronicles 15:13-15: A parallel passage that provides more detail about how David ensured the Levites carried the Ark as God had instructed.
- Hebrews 13:15: Speaks of offering a “sacrifice of praise,” which reflects the attitude David had in sacrificing as part of his worship.
Meaning for Today’s Christian
This verse challenges Christians today to approach God with reverence, taking care to follow His instructions in all areas of life. It reminds us that worship is not something to be taken lightly or done carelessly. Instead, like David, we should seek to honor God in everything we do, making sure our actions align with His Word. The six steps followed by a sacrifice show that worship is an ongoing process of offering ourselves to God, not just in big events but even in the small, everyday moments of life.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in that He desires His people to approach Him correctly, not to restrict them but to protect and bless them. David’s careful approach to moving the Ark shows that God had taught him a valuable lesson about how to honor His holiness. God’s love is seen in how He blesses obedience and creates opportunities for His people to draw near to Him through worship. The fact that God allows us to approach Him at all, even after failures or mistakes, shows His grace and love.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
In the Old Testament, sacrifices like those offered by David were necessary to honor God and atone for sin. But in the New Testament, Jesus became the ultimate sacrifice. Hebrews 10:10 tells us that through the sacrifice of Jesus, we are made holy once and for all. Where David had to offer animal sacrifices to honor God, Jesus’ death on the cross was the perfect sacrifice that allows us to approach God confidently. Through Jesus, we no longer need to offer sacrifices of animals, but we are called to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, dedicated to serving God with our whole lives (Romans 12:1).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you approach God with greater reverence and intentionality in your daily life?
- In what areas of your life can you offer sacrifices of praise or service to God?
- How does knowing that Jesus was the ultimate sacrifice affect the way you view worship and your relationship with God?