▸ AUTHOR: No author is mentioned anywhere in this book. Although the traditional view is that Samuel wrote 2 Samuel, it was probably compiled by one man who combined the written chronicles of “Nathan the prophet” and “Gad the seer” (1 Chr. 29:29). In addition to these written sources, the compiler evidently used another source called the “book of Jasher” (1:18).
▸ TIME: c. 1011–971 B.C.
▸ KEY VERSES: 2 Sam. 7:12–13
▸ THEME: Second Samuel begins with Saul’s death and David’s ascension to the throne of Judah. A few years later he becomes the king of all of Israel. During his reign there were many problems, most of which can be traced back to David’s own behavior. He abuses power and plays favorites with his sons. The result is much personal sorrow and the seeds of discord that follow in succeeding generations. Second Samuel gives us a full picture of a king, a poet, a soldier, and a sinner who yearns after God’s own heart and follows where He leads.