Nathan's initial approval refers to the moment in the biblical narrative when the prophet Nathan first endorses King David's desire to build a temple for the Lord. This event is recorded in 2 Samuel 7:1-17 and 1 Chronicles 17:1-15. It is a significant moment in the history of Israel, highlighting the relationship between divine guidance and human intention.

Context and Background

After King David had established his reign and found rest from his enemies, he expressed a desire to build a permanent dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant. Up to that point, the Ark had been housed in a tent, known as the Tabernacle, since the time of Moses. David's intention was to honor God by constructing a temple, a house of cedar, which would serve as a central place of worship for the Israelites.

Nathan's Initial Response

In 2 Samuel 7:2-3 , David shares his plan with Nathan: "Here I am, living in a house of cedar, while the ark of God remains in a tent." Nathan responds affirmatively, saying, "Go and do all that is in your heart, for the LORD is with you." This initial approval by Nathan reflects his understanding of David's heart and his desire to honor God. Nathan, a trusted prophet and advisor to David, initially perceives the king's plan as good and in alignment with God's will.

Divine Correction

However, that very night, the word of the Lord came to Nathan, instructing him to deliver a different message to David. In 2 Samuel 7:5-7 , God questions, "Are you the one to build for Me a house to dwell in?" The Lord reminds David through Nathan that He has not dwelt in a house since bringing the Israelites out of Egypt and has not asked for a house of cedar from any of the tribes of Israel.

God's message to David, delivered by Nathan, reveals a divine plan that extends beyond David's immediate intentions. The Lord promises to establish David's house and kingdom forever, a covenant that points to the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, from David's lineage. In 2 Samuel 7:12-13 , God declares, "When your days are fulfilled and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring after you, who will come from your own body, and I will establish his kingdom. He will build a house for My Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever."

Theological Significance

Nathan's initial approval and subsequent correction underscore the importance of seeking God's will and timing in all endeavors. While David's desire to build a temple was noble, God's plan was greater and involved the establishment of an everlasting kingdom through David's lineage. This narrative highlights the sovereignty of God and His ability to work through human intentions to fulfill His divine purposes.

Nathan's role as a prophet is also emphasized in this account. As a messenger of God, Nathan demonstrates obedience and humility by delivering God's corrected message to David, even when it contradicted his initial approval. This serves as a reminder of the importance of discernment and the willingness to adjust one's understanding in light of divine revelation.

Conclusion

Nathan's initial approval of David's plan to build a temple, followed by God's correction, is a pivotal moment in biblical history. It illustrates the dynamic relationship between human intentions and divine will, ultimately pointing to the fulfillment of God's promises through the lineage of David.