And the men of Judah came, and there they anointed David king— David had no other title to the succession than the appointment of God by Samuel; and this claim, on which he founded his pretensions, was universally known to the people of Israel, and the avowed reason why they advanced him to the throne. It was known to Jonathan his friend; Saul himself was no stranger to it; Abigail confesses this appointment of God; Abner was not ignorant of it, as appears by his words to Ish-bosheth; and his message to the elders of Israel, who also acknowledged it: so that David's appointment to be king by the God of Israel, who anointed him by Samuel, was the foundation of his claim, and the reason why all at last centered in him; and which justified his pretensions to, and contest for the crown, after the death of Saul: and it was a better claim than what Ish-bosheth had, who, in reality, had none at all, as the crown was never made hereditary in Saul's family, and was entirely at God's disposal, who was the supreme King and Governor of Israel. Besides, it was natural for the men of Judah to prefer one of their own family. Jacob had long since predicted the establishment of the sovereignty in the tribe of Judah. David was of that tribe, beyond all dispute elected and appointed to succeed Saul; and what had the men of Judah to do, but to concur with the predeterminations of Providence in his favour? Accordingly, they anointed him king. But whether they did this with more dispatch to influence the determination of the other tribes in his favour, or whether it was delayed until their dispositions were founded upon the point, is nowhere said. This is certain, that one tribe's acting separate and independent of the rest, might be in a general point of view of dangerous example; nor could any thing but the divine authority justify it. Houbigant, however, is of opinion, and he combats Calmet on this head, that, as the tribe of Judah well knew the designation of David to the throne, they ought not to have waited till the other tribes were assembled that they might all unanimously acknowledge David king, unless they meant to thwart what God had done; or unless David was not king, though immediately appointed by God, if all the tribes did not give their assent to the divine appointment.
REFLECTIONS.—David's army had been much reinforced, as appears 1 Chronicles 12., yet he does not immediately seize the throne, or march to compel allegiance to himself, though Israel's anointed sovereign; but,
1. Inquires of God whether it be his will that he should go up into Judah, where, as being his own tribe, he hoped to be most readily received? Note; They who wait upon God for direction, will be led in the right way to the kingdom.
2. David immediately obeys the divine direction, and takes his wives along with him, and his men of war and their households; they had been his companions in tribulation, it is but right and honourable to take them to share in his advancement. Note; They who follow Christ under the cross, shall reign with him in the day of his appearing and glory.
3. He meets with a very welcome reception. The men of Judah recognised the divine designation, and anointed him their king. Note; They who would have Christ to reign over them, must choose him for their king.
4. On inquiry, probably, after Saul's corpse and Jonathan's, for which he purposed an honourable interment, he is informed of the generous behaviour of the men of Jabesh-gilead. As a token how kindly he took this noble action of theirs, he sends them a hearty commendation, prays the Lord to bless them for their kindness, and declares that he will take occasion to requite them. Though Saul is dead, who defended them, David, who is anointed in his stead, will be their friend; therefore they need not fear any thing from the Philistines, who might resent their deed: he bids them be strong and valiant; and, as he hoped they would receive him as their king, they might depend upon his protection. Note; (1.) A kindness shewn to our friends is an obligation conferred on ourselves. (2.) It is not enough to bestow our good wishes, but we must recompense in such manner as we are able, those who have well deserved. (3.) To have those for our friends, whose fidelity to others has been tried, is a valuable acquisition.