Study Guide: 2 Samuel 23
*This study guide can be used in conjunction with the message preached on November 16, 2025 during the series Imperfect Heroes.
Pray
Pray and ask God for help to faithfully finish well with the time you have left on earth.
Read
2 Samuel 23
Observe
vv. 1–4 | The Character of God’s Perfect King
These are the last words of David—not necessarily the final words he ever spoke, but his final inspired psalm that reflected the deep longings of his heart near the end of his life. David, the son of Jesse, had been lifted from humble beginnings as a shepherd to the throne of Israel. He was anointed by the God of Jacob and became known as “the sweet psalmist of Israel.” Each of these titles captures something of his journey: his humble start, God’s promotion, his divine calling, and his spiritual depth. David recognized that the Spirit of the Lord spoke through him, showing he was aware that his words were inspired by God. As he looked back, he understood that rulers must be just and govern in the fear of God, knowing they are accountable to the Lord. When a leader does this, David said, their rule is like the sunrise—bringing light, clarity, and life after the rain. Though David’s reign was far from perfect, it was blessed and marked by God’s presence. Unlike Solomon, whose reign looked more peaceful and prosperous, David’s legacy endured because of his deep devotion to God. Even through sin and failure, David’s passion was to walk closely with the Lord, while Solomon’s focus eventually shifted toward personal gain. David’s heart for God outlasted his imperfections, leaving a legacy tied forever to the coming Messiah.
vv. 5–7 | David’s Trust in God’s Covenant
As David considered what a perfect kingdom would look like, he admitted that his own family and reign didn’t fully reflect that vision. Yet, he rested in God’s promise, saying, “He has made with me an everlasting covenant.” David’s confidence didn’t come from his own perfection but from God’s faithfulness. This covenant—God’s gracious and eternal promise—became David’s hope, his salvation, and his deepest desire. Even though David had stumbled, he trusted that God could bring good even from failure and sorrow when they were met with repentance. Still, David warned that “the sons of rebellion” would be like thorns—dangerous and destined for destruction. God’s covenant didn’t excuse disobedience; it confirmed that the Lord would deal justly with the wicked. David knew he could trust God to handle his enemies and fulfill His promises. This unshakable relationship between David and God explains why he remains Israel’s greatest king and why the New Testament opens by calling Jesus “the Son of David.”
vv. 8–12 | The Names and Exploits of David’s Top Three Soldiers
David’s greatness was not his alone; it was shared with the mighty men who stood by him. These men were once distressed, indebted, and discontented—yet under David’s leadership, they became warriors of courage and faith. The first was Adino the Eznite, who killed eight hundred men in one battle. Then came Eleazar, the son of Dodo, who fought so fiercely that his hand clung to his sword, and God brought about a great victory through him. Lastly, Shammah, the son of Agee, defended a field of lentils alone when everyone else fled. Through these men, the Lord brought great victories. Their loyalty to David, especially when his reputation was low, showed remarkable faith. They remind believers today that God still looks for people willing to stand firm in truth, even when others retreat. Just as their personal victories strengthened David’s kingdom, our personal obedience strengthens God’s work in the world today.
vv. 13–17 | A Daring Exploit from David’s Days at Adullam
During a battle with the Philistines, David longed for a drink from the well near his hometown of Bethlehem. It wasn’t a command—just a wistful expression—but three of his mighty men heard him and risked their lives to get it. They broke through enemy lines, drew the water, and brought it back to David. Overwhelmed by their devotion, David refused to drink it. Instead, he poured it out before the Lord, saying it was too sacred for him—it was like the blood of those who risked their lives. This act showed David’s reverence for both God and his men. Their loyalty inspired worship, and David’s humility gave all the glory to God. What began as a simple desire became a sacred offering, reminding us that acts of devotion, even small ones, can become worship when done from the heart.
vv. 18–23 | Two More Notable Men Among the Mighty
Abishai, the brother of Joab, was another courageous warrior who once faced three hundred enemies and triumphed. Though he wasn’t part of the top three, he was still honored among the mighty men and served as their captain. Then there was Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada, known for his boldness and skill. He killed two powerful warriors from Moab, fought and defeated a lion in a snowy pit, and even faced a giant Egyptian, taking the man’s own spear and using it to win the fight. His bravery earned him a position of high honor, and David appointed him as captain of his personal guard. These men’s courage and faith reflect the kind of strength God gives to those who trust Him in battle.
vv. 24–39 | A List of David’s Mighty Men
The chapter ends with a long list of David’s warriors—thirty-seven in all. Among them were Eliam, the son of Ahithophel, and Uriah the Hittite, Bathsheba’s husband. These names remind us that even in the stories of triumph, sin and tragedy are interwoven. David’s failure with Bathsheba should have been unthinkable, given his connection to these loyal men. Still, this list stands as a testimony to God’s grace and David’s influence. These men began as outcasts but were transformed through their leader’s example and God’s power. More than all of David’s military victories, the loyalty and faithfulness of these men show the greatness of his leadership. God took broken, ordinary people and made them mighty—just as He still does with those who follow Him wholeheartedly.
Credit: Guzik, David. “2 Samuel 23 - David’s Last Psalm.” Enduring Word, n.d., https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/2-samuel-23.
Application
1. A Life Centered on God Finishes Well
David’s final words remind us that lasting greatness doesn’t come from personal achievement but from walking closely with God. His life had victories and failures, but his heart always returned to the Lord. A godly life is not defined by perfection but by direction—continually turning back to God in faith and humility. When our hearts stay centered on Him, we can finish our lives with confidence and peace, knowing His covenant promises will never fail.
2. God Uses Ordinary People to Do Extraordinary Things
David’s mighty men didn’t start as heroes; they began as broken and discouraged men who found new purpose under David’s leadership. God still delights in transforming ordinary, struggling people into instruments of His power. Our weaknesses don’t disqualify us—they become the very places where God’s strength is displayed. When we surrender to Him and stay faithful in the battles He calls us to fight, He can turn us into “mighty men and women” for His glory.
3. True Honor Belongs to God Alone
When David’s men risked their lives to bring him water, he refused to drink it and poured it out to the Lord. His response teaches us that all acts of devotion, sacrifice, and success ultimately belong to God. The victories we experience are not ours to claim—they are offerings to the One who made them possible. True worship begins when we give God the honor for every victory and every blessing in our lives.
Pray (ACTS)
What is the ACTS prayer model?
A - Praise God that His name will endure far beyond anything and anyone.
C - Confess a time you chose pride in your own accomplishment rather than giving God the thanks.
T - Thank God for using ordinary people to do extraordinary things.
S - Ask God for help to live with courage and to finish the race of life surrendered to Him.
DISCUSS
Questions for personal reflection, spiritual insight, or group interaction.
David’s final words reveal a heart focused on God’s covenant faithfulness. What do your “final words” or deepest values say about your relationship with God right now?
Why is it important for leaders—whether in families, workplaces, or churches—to “rule in the fear of God”? How might that look in your life or leadership?
David’s reign was not perfect, yet God still called him a man after His own heart. What does this teach us about God’s grace and how He measures success?
How does David’s trust in God’s everlasting covenant encourage you when you feel aware of your own weaknesses or failures?
The mighty men started as discouraged and broken people. What does their transformation under David’s leadership teach you about God’s ability to use anyone?
Which of David’s mighty men inspires you most—Adino’s courage, Eleazar’s endurance, or Shammah’s steadfastness—and why?
Eleazar’s hand “stuck to the sword” after battle. What might this symbolize for Christians today when it comes to holding tightly to God’s Word?
When David refused to drink the water his men brought and instead poured it out to the Lord, what does that teach about humility and giving God the glory?
How can we guard against becoming like the “sons of rebellion” who resisted God’s ways, even while living among His people?
Benaiah faced great challenges—a lion, fierce warriors, and harsh conditions. What “lions” has God called you to face in faith and courage?
What do you learn from the loyalty of David’s mighty men about the kind of faithfulness God desires in His followers?
How does this chapter challenge you to live a life that finishes well—one that leaves behind faith, courage, and devotion to God as your legacy?
Resources for Further Study of 2 Samuel