Noticethe weeping people. (Luk_23:27-31.) David’s experience at this time contains many foreshadowings of the passion of our Lord, but also some contrasts, as the conduct of the priesthood. (Verse 24 compared with Joh_18:13; Joh_18:24.)
I. The ark sent back. In this incident David’s character rises to its height of moral grandeur. The ark was the symbol of God’s presence. (1Sa_4:1-11.) The Israelites in Eli’s time had degenerated into trust of the symbol, instead of that which it symbolized. (Jer_7:1-4; Mat_3:9.) David understood the spiritual truth underlying, but not inseparable from, the outward sign.
II. His motives in sending back the ark seem to have been:
1. An expression of his unworthiness, as one who had deeply sinned, and was suffering the consequences of sin, to enjoy the consolation of religion.
2. Trust in Jehovah Himself apart from ordinances and symbols. “If I shall find favour, then I shall be restored to the sanctuary and its blessings; and if not, then what good will the ark do me? “Without God’s favour it will only be a useless responsibility.” This teaches us a deep spiritual lesson, needed in all ages, that mere outward forms of religion can never profit a heart not at peace with God. And in these expressions. David manifested strong faith. (Num_14:8; Dan_3:17-18; 1Jn_5:4.)
3. He feared to injure others by the withdrawal of the symbol of God’s presence, but would rather leave a witness in rebellious Jerusalem. (Psa_69:6; Psa_69:36.)
4. Besides this, he doubtless feared to imperil the ark itself, remembering the awful lesson of Uzzah’s death.
III. A prayer immediately answered. (2Sa_15:31; 2Sa_16:23; 1Co_3:18-19; 1Co_1:18-25.) Ahithophel’s treachery specially alluded to. (Psa_41:9; Psa_55:12-15.) (R. E. Faulkner.)
