John Davies
This chapter of The Mercy of God in the Old Testament is part of a brief outline of Old Testament theology focusing on the mercy of God. It traces the canonical accounts of the conquest and settlement, seeing God continuing to demonstrate his forbearance at his people’s persistence in idolatry. The establishment of the dynasty of David and God’s far-reaching commitment to him build on previous covenant commitments. While the covenant with David is in one way a particularising of God’s previous undertakings to his chosen people, in another way it is a broadening of scope to encompass the world (which had always been at least implicit). Covenant perpetuity and conditionality are seen not to be incompatible principles. The construction and dedication of Solomon’s temple should serve to mark the climax of the settlement in the land with God ruling in the midst of his people, a solid reminder of God’s readiness to hear their pleas. The reality is its true purpose is neglected, and the temple is eventually destroyed in connection with the much-anticipated exile of the people. A glimmer of hope shines through, however, that God will, once again, in his mercy restore his people.