David's words here state succinctly the philosophy of history the writer of Kings set forth in this book.27It is the philosophy David had learned and now commended to his son Solomon. Careful obedience to the Law of Moses would yield success in all areas of his son's life (v. 2). That obedience would constitute his manhood (v. 1). Since God made man in the image of God, man can realize his manhood only by placing himself under God's authority. "Statutes,""commandments,""ordinances,"and "testimonies"are all different kinds of precepts in the Law. Solomon's faithful obedience would also insure an unbroken line of rulers (v. 4; implied in 1 Sam. 7:12-16).
David also gave Solomon advice concerning certain men. Solomon should execute Joab for his murders (2 Sam. 3:22-30; 20:8-10). David had been merciful to Joab. He was living on borrowed time because of his service to David. Nevertheless he deserved to die so justice would prevail. Evidently David had reason to believe Shimei the Benjamite would threaten the throne again (cf. 2 Sam. 16:11). If he did, Solomon was to execute him (v. 9; cf. vv. 36-46). We see here (vv. 1-9) another instance of the theme that punishment comes on those who resist the Lord's anointed and blessing follows those who serve him.
"David was wrong in passing on responsibility to Solomon to execute the judgment he himself should have ordered at the time. This was to cause his son and successors much trouble and feuding."28
