2nd Samuel

The Second Book of Samuel is concerned with David's kingship ( from 1000-960 B.C.) and his various exploits such as that with Bathsheba and his calculated killing of Uriah.  There is also David's attempt to build a house of cedars for the Lord.  I seem to recall studying this passage at some point along the way and the conclusion was that the Lord is reminding David who's who, that he, David, has overstepped the limits of his authority and that God will determine the time and place for building a temple.  In fact, it seems to me that Ch.7, 5-17 is a pretty dramatic declaration to David of the extent to which God'power and might directs the life of Israel and of David its king.  And, it's not without humor.  The Lord tells David (Ch. 7, 6),  'I have not lived in a house since the day I brought up the people of Israel from Egypt to this day. . . .'  implying, so what the heck makes you think you should build me one now?

Both study guides (Garrison and Baker) mention that there is little theological importance in the books of First and Second Samuel, with the exception of Ch. 7 ( Nathan the prophet assures David of God's promise that David's descendants will rule forever).   In fact, Garrison recommends skimming both books of Samuel (as well as Kings and Chronicles for that matter, but not Job).   He does point out though that these books are necessary because they provide "accounts of the most glorious decades of Israel as a political community" and lay the groundwork for understanding Israel's future. 

Baker also notes the "theological statement" of the "effects of sin on a family."   He refers of course to the way in which David's adultery precipitates a "punishment of disorder and violence"  with the rape of Tamar, Absalom killing Ammon, Absalom trying to kill his father and so on.  We can observe the same sort of disorder and violence being wreaked on the family today as a result of the weakening of marriage and the so-called sexual "freedom" touted by our culture.