David and Goliath: Round 1

We have come to one of the most famous stories in the Bible: David and Goliath. The idea of the little guy beating the big guy has been used of underdogs in sports and politics. This story has been told in so many times and in so many ways that many have lost touch with the original biblical text and its central meaning.

For example there is a Veggie Tales episode in which Dave, upset over not being allowed to join his brothers who have all gone off to war, is resigned to staying at home and taking care of the farm. When a giant pickle is sent to attack his village, Dave relies on God's teachings, and his own self-esteem, to fight the monster.

David's defeat of Goliath is not meant merely as inspiration for mediocre sports teams. Nor is the primary point that YOU can overcome YOUR personal problems. The battle between David and Goliath is part of the a cosmic battle which began in the Garden of Eden, as the LORD's anointed defeats the blasphemous oppressor of His chosen people.

While the account of the actual battle is very brief, the buildup is extensive. We will spend this week on the preliminaries in which David has to overcome the unbelief of Saul and the people of Israel and the scorn of his brother before he can even enter into combat with Goliath. Next week we will consider the battle and its aftermath.

While our primary focus will be on how David is a type of Christ, we will also see how we can follow David's example as we engage in spiritual warfare.