1 Samuel 27 – Jesus: The Exiled King Who Prepares for His Return

1 Samuel 27 & John 14:2-3

In 1 Samuel 27, we see David, the anointed king of Israel, making a perplexing decision—he leaves Israel and takes refuge among the Philistines, Israel’s enemies. He does this to escape King Saul, who relentlessly seeks to kill him. David’s time in exile is not one of defeat but of strategic preparation. He gathers his followers, secures provision, and positions himself for his eventual reign over Israel.

This chapter is a foreshadowing of Jesus—the true King—who also faced exile. Though He is the rightful ruler of all, Jesus left this world after His resurrection, promising to return. In John 14:2-3, He assures His disciples:

“In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.”

Jesus, like David, is the Exiled King. But His exile is not a sign of abandonment—it is a time of preparation. He is gathering His people, building His kingdom, and readying the world for His glorious return.

David’s Exile in Ziklag: A King in Preparation

David’s journey into exile in 1 Samuel 27 is filled with lessons that mirror Jesus’ own departure from the earth.

David Seeks Refuge in a Foreign Land (1 Samuel 27:1-4)
- David, fearing for his life under Saul’s rule, decides to live among the Philistines, led by King Achish of Gath.
- This move seems unthinkable—David, the slayer of Goliath, now aligning with the Philistines?
- Yet, this exile is temporary and strategic; it is not David’s final home.
➤ Parallel to Jesus: After His resurrection, Jesus ascended to heaven. Though He is not physically present, He is still King. His time in “exile” is not abandonment but part of God’s plan to prepare His people for His return.
David Gathers and Protects His People (1 Samuel 27:5-7)
- David does not flee alone—he takes 600 loyal men and their families with him.
- In Ziklag, David establishes a place of refuge and protection.
- Though in exile, he is still leading, strengthening, and preparing his people.
➤ Parallel to Jesus: Jesus is gathering His followers—His Church—during His time away. He is calling, strengthening, and preparing His people for His second coming.
David Continues Fighting for the Kingdom (1 Samuel 27:8-12)
- While in Philistine territory, David carries out military raids—not against Israel, but against enemy nations.
- He is expanding his influence and securing future victories.
- Even in exile, David is actively working toward his coming reign.
➤ Parallel to Jesus: Jesus is still at work in the world today. He is advancing His Kingdom through His Spirit, His Word, and His people. Though physically absent, His reign is growing, and His return will bring full restoration.

Jesus: Preparing for His Return

David’s exile points to Jesus’ departure from the earth, but also to His assured return.

1. Jesus Has Gone to Prepare a Place for Us (John 14:2-3)

Just as David’s time in exile was purposeful, so is Jesus’ time away. He is preparing an eternal home for His people. This echoes the Old Testament prophecy:

“The LORD has established His throne in the heavens, and His kingdom rules over all.” (Psalm 103:19)

Jesus is not idle—He is actively preparing a place for those who follow Him.

2. Jesus is Still Reigning, Even in His Absence

David, though exiled, remained the rightful king of Israel. Similarly, Jesus is still reigning over His people, even though He is not yet physically present.

Jesus is ruling through His Spirit (John 16:13)
Jesus is expanding His kingdom through His Church (Matthew 28:19-20)
Jesus is interceding for His people (Hebrews 7:25)

Like David’s growing influence, Christ’s kingdom continues to advance.

3. Jesus Will Return in Power and Glory

David eventually returned from exile and took his rightful throne. This points to Jesus’ second coming, when He will return not as a suffering servant, but as the victorious King of Kings.

Revelation 19:11-16 describes Jesus’ return:

“Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True… On His robe and on His thigh He has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords.”

Just as David’s return led to the establishment of his kingdom in Israel, Jesus’ return will bring the full establishment of God’s kingdom on earth.

What This Means for Us Today

If Jesus is the Exiled King Who Prepares for His Return, how should we live in anticipation?

Trust in His Preparation – Jesus is actively preparing a place for His people. Our eternal home is secure.
Follow the King in Exile – Even though we don’t see Jesus face to face yet, we are called to be His faithful followers, just as David’s men remained loyal in exile.
Live with Expectation – Jesus is coming back! We should live with urgency, hope, and readiness for His return.

“For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come.” (Hebrews 13:14)

Like David’s men in Ziklag, we are not home yet. But our King is coming back, and when He does, His kingdom will reign forever.

Are you ready for the return of the Exiled King?