2:2-4 David’s advice to Solomon combined the spiritual and ethical standards of Deuteronomy, the standards of the covenant through Moses (see Lev 18:4-5; Deut 5:33; 6:4-5; 8:6; 10:12), and the promises of the covenant with David (2 Sam 7:12-16, 25). If Solomon would keep God’s standards of righteousness, the promises would be transmitted to his heir, who in turn could claim God’s blessings and convey them to subsequent generations (Ps 89:3-4, 20, 24, 27-37). • The preeminent heir of David, the Messiah, would embody true righteousness (Isa 11:1-5), receive the full benefits of the covenant (Jer 33:14-16), and enact a new covenant with the people of Israel and Judah (Jer 31:31-34; Ezek 34:24-31; 37:24-28). The New Testament reveals Jesus as that son of David who has come (Matt 1:1; Rom 1:1-4); he will come again to fulfill Old Testament prophecies and bless all people (Luke 1:67-79; Gal 3:26-29; Rev 3:21). 2:2 Take courage and be a man: God and Moses had given this same charge to Joshua at the time of the conquest (Deut 31:6-7; Josh 1:6-7, 9). Joshua and Hezekiah gave this admonition to Israelite forces when facing enemies (Josh 1:16-18; 10:24-28; 2 Chr 32:7). David had learned the value of godly courage (Pss 27:13-14; 31:23-24). When Paul urged Christians to be courageous (literally be men) and strong (1 Cor 16:13), he used the same words as the Greek Old Testament uses for the charges by Moses, Joshua, Hezekiah, and the Lord. An interesting parallel is found in the account of Bishop Polycarp’s martyrdom. As he was led into the stadium facing execution, Polycarp heard a voice from heaven saying, “Be strong, Polycarp, be a man!” (Martyrdom of Polycarp 9:1).