7:4–17 The theological and historical significance of the divine promise to David recorded in these verses (paralleled in 1 Chr. 17:3–15) can hardly be overestimated. Indeed, the promise of an enduring Davidic kingdom has been called the summit of the entire Old Testament. Looking back, it takes up the promises of blessing made to Abraham and his elect seed (Gen. 17:16) and brings them to rest on David (vv. 9, 10, 12). Looking forward, it prepares for the messianic hope that inspires Israel’s faith before and after the exile in Babylon (Is. 11:1; Jer. 23:5, 6; Zech. 3:8; 6:12). The hope for a Messiah culminates in the coming of Jesus Christ (Is. 9:1–7; Luke 1:32, 33, 69, 70; Acts 2:30, 31; 13:22, 23; Rom. 1:1–4; 2 Tim. 2:8; Rev. 22:16).