1 Kings 2:1-12
The last words of a father or mother to their children, from their death-bed, are always of great moment. Those of David to Solomon may be summarized in this way: "Keep the word of God". This was also the desire of the Lord Jesus as He was about to leave His own (John 14:23-24).
Then it is also necessary to speak of judgment. The reign of righteousness and peace cannot be established without it. Joab’s crimes and Shimei’s insults, long unpunished, must now be brought to remembrance. Then again, what Barzillai has done for the king and for his people must not be lost sight of.
Solomon, a type of Christ, the King of righteousness, will reward each man according to what his works have been, as the second part of this chapter shows us. The day in which the Lord will establish His kingdom in glory will also be one of retribution (Matthew 25:31). Some will be granted eternal life, others given over to eternal torment. Yes, there is a Judge, a judgment seat, a hell (Revelation 20:12-15), but there is also a "resurrection of life" for believers. That is what David is henceforth waiting for. As Acts 13:36 tells us: "David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell on sleep, and was laid unto his fathers".