Irresistible Wisdom – Kingdom Come

Week 2: Guided through Wisdom

During this study, we will be doing a ‘deep dive’ into a scriptural passage. It is strongly encouraged that you study the passage and entire chapter ahead of the study. Also be prepared with your research tools, for example Google or your study Bible, as you will need to reference it during the study. Spend time answering and discussing each question with the intention to gain sufficient understanding to help your own private Bible study as you further explore these topics.

Study Chapters: 1 Chronicles 10–20

Pilot text

1 Chronicles 11:1–3
Then all Israel came together to David at Hebron, saying, “Indeed we are your bone and your flesh. 2 Also, in time past, even when Saul was king, you were the one who led Israel out and brought them in; and the Lord your God said to you, ‘You shall shepherd My people Israel, and be ruler over My people Israel.’ ” 3 Therefore all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron, and David made a covenant with them at Hebron before the Lord. And they anointed David king over Israel, according to the word of the Lord by Samuel.
1 Chronicles 14:8–11
8 Now when the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over all Israel, all the Philistines went up to search for David. And David heard of it and went out against them. 9 Then the Philistines went and made a raid on the Valley of Rephaim. 10 And David inquired of God, saying, “Shall I go up against the Philistines? Will You deliver them into my hand?”
The Lord said to him, “Go up, for I will deliver them into your hand.”
11 So they went up to Baal Perazim, and David defeated them there. Then David said, “God has broken through my enemies by my hand like a breakthrough of water.” Therefore they called the name of that place Baal Perazim.

Introduction:
These chapters overlap with events also recorded in 2 Samuel and reflected in the background of Kings highlighting David’s rise, his mighty men, and his victories. David succeeds not because of military strength but because he consistently seeks God’s counsel. This stands in sharp contrast to 1-2 Kings, where many leaders act without inquiry, leading to national decline. Chronicles intentionally retells David’s story to emphasise what wise leadership looks like. It omits his failures – not to hide them, but to highlight the wisdom that Israel’s later kings lacked. This reveals that wisdom is not perfection, but alignment.

Discussion Point

• Where do we see Christ? David’s shepherd‑king role foreshadows Christ the Good Shepherd and true King (John 10:11-16; Hebrews 1:8). How does David’s leadership point to Jesus?
• Where do we see salvation? David’s victories through divine instruction reflect salvation that comes not by human strength but by God’s intervention (Romans 8:31-34; Ephesians 2:8–9). How do these battles mirror our spiritual journey?
• Where do we see ourselves? In David’s dependence, the mighty men’s loyalty, or Israel’s need for wise leadership, where do you recognise your need for God’s wisdom to order your life?

Closing thoughts:

These chapters reveal that wisdom is not simply knowing what to do but knowing where to turn. David’s story shows that wisdom begins with seeking God before acting. His inquiries of the Lord demonstrate humility, dependence, and discernment. Christ is the greater David who leads with perfect wisdom, guiding His people not by force but by truth and grace. His leadership invites us into a life shaped by divine counsel rather than impulse or pressure.
Salvation is seen in the way God delivers David again and again. Victory comes not through strategy alone but through alignment with God’s voice. Many today face decisions that feel overwhelming or battles that seem unwinnable. These chapters remind us that wisdom is our anchor. It brings clarity in confusion and direction in uncertainty. The mighty men illustrate the strength found in community and shared purpose. Their courage reflects the New Testament call to stand firm together in Christ. Where are we in this story? Some are like David, needing wisdom for leadership. Others are like the mighty men, called to stand faithfully in their assignments. Still others feel like Israel, longing for wise guidance. God’s wisdom orders our steps, strengthens our relationships, and empowers us to walk in victory.
“What would wisdom require of me right now?” becomes the defining question of a life guided by God.

Application Questions (use scriptures to support your position):

• A senior manager (who is a believer) makes rapid decisions under pressure without seeking input or prayer, leading to repeated issues. How does David’s pattern challenge this?
• A believer relies solely on logic when making major life decisions. How might this passage reshape their approach?