On this episode of The Hillsdale College Online Courses Podcast, Jeremiah and Juan introduce the course "The David Story: Shepherd, Father, King."

First and Second Samuel tell the story of Saul and David, Israel’s first two kings. These Old Testament books depict the importance of the relationship between father and son and the consequences of sin for the sinner, his family, and his nation. While David’s transgressions lead to great tragedy for himself and Israel, his penitence shows a path toward redemption.

The Israelites are God’s chosen people, but they must undergo challenges to prepare them to be the nation from which the Messiah will come. The story of David illustrates how Israel’s history is touched by the divine, but still human.