2 Samuel 16:1-23| Absalom’s Rebellion (Part 2) | Sermon 36
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Chapter 16 of 2 Samuel continues the turbulent events of Absalom’s rebellion against King David. This chapter highlights the challenges David faced from both allies and enemies.
In 2 Samuel 15, Absalom won the hearts of Israel through deceit and declared himself king in Hebron. David fled Jerusalem with his followers to avoid confrontation. The chapter ended with David’s sorrowful departure.
Chapter 16 unveils more perilous moments: Ziba's cunning, Hushai's loyalty test, and Ahithophel's bold but bad counsel.
Ziba's Deception (Verses 1-4)
Ziba, a former servant of Saul, informed David about Mephibosheth when David sought Saul's descendants. David then appointed Ziba to manage Saul's estate, now owned by Mephibosheth.
Ziba brought gifts to David—donkeys, bread, fruits, and wine—to appear trustworthy. He falsely claimed Mephibosheth stayed in Jerusalem hoping to reclaim Saul's kingdom. Angered, David gave all of Mephibosheth's holdings to Ziba.
Unbeknownst to David, Ziba was lying. The truth unfolds in 2 Samuel 19:24-30.
Lessons from this passage:
Beware of unexpected generosity: Generous offers may hide ulterior motives. Be cautious and consider the reasons behind such acts.
Be discerning: Investigate and ask questions before making decisions. David's hasty decision, based on lies, highlights the importance of verifying facts to avoid misunderstandings.
Shimei Curses David (Verses 5-14)
As David and his men journeyed to Bahurim, Shimei from Saul's house cursed and threw stones at them, calling David a "man of blood" and "man of Belial," implying worthlessness. Shimei claimed David's troubles were divine retribution for Saul's blood, and Absalom now ruled due to David's misdeeds.
This encounter distressed David, already burdened by Absalom's betrayal and Ziba's deception. Although Abishai suggested killing Shimei, David endured the curses, believing they might be God's will. He hoped enduring them might lead to divine mercy.
David's response showed emotional and moral exhaustion. He wrongly saw Shimei's curses as humility and submission to God, failing to recognize they opposed God's work in making him king. This reflected a loss of fight in David.
As they traveled, Shimei continued cursing and throwing stones, causing physical and emotional fatigue for David and his men. Verse 14 notes their weariness and rest, underscoring the unnecessary toll due to David's flawed interpretation of seeking God's favor.
The Tale of Two Advisors (Verses 15-23)
In verses 15-19, Absalom enters Jerusalem with Israel's men and Ahithophel, marking his takeover of the city and rebellion against King David.
Hushai (Verses 16-19)
Hushai the Archite, a friend of David, approached Absalom and pledged loyalty with a cheer for the king. Absalom asked why he wasn't with David. Hushai replied that he would serve whoever the Lord and Israel chose, and they had chosen Absalom. He promised to serve Absalom as he had served David.
Hushai’s words reassured Absalom of his loyalty while positioning himself to potentially influence events in David's favor. This pledge offers a glimmer of hope in a dark time for David.
Ahithophel (Verses 20-23)
In verses 20-22, Ahithophel offered strategic counsel to Absalom, suggesting a bold and odious move to solidify his rebellion against his father, David. Ahithophel advised Absalom to take his father's concubines, whom David had left to keep the house, and lie with them in a public display. This act would signal to all Israel that Absalom had completely severed ties with David and had no intention of reconciling with him.
By doing this, Ahithophel believed that Absalom would strengthen the resolve of his followers. He said, "the hands of all that are with thee be strong" (v. 21). The public nature of this act would ensure that Absalom's supporters would not fear being abandoned or labeled as traitors if Absalom later changed his mind and sought reconciliation with David. It was a move designed to cement Absalom's leadership and commitment to the rebellion.
Absalom followed Ahithophel's counsel, and a tent was pitched for him upon the top of the house. There, in the sight of all Israel, Absalom went in unto his father's concubines. This act of defiance was a powerful statement, reinforcing his claim to the throne and his break from David.
This event may be history’s all-time "Gold Medal" in the "burning bridges" category.
Verse 23 provides critical insight into the high regard in which Ahithophel's counsel was held. It states, "And the counsel of Ahithophel, which he counselled in those days, was as if a man had enquired at the oracle of God: so was all the counsel of Ahithophel both with David and with Absalom." This verse emphasizes that Ahithophel's advice was considered exceptionally wise and almost divinely inspired. People treated his counsel as though it came directly from God, showcasing the tremendous respect and authority he commanded in both David's and Absalom's courts. This high level of esteem underscores the gravity and influence of his recommendations, making his support for Absalom particularly impactful.
Conclusion
Governments have always been filled with drama and intrigue, and David's is no different. This chapter reveals the unsavory process of "how the sausage is made," showing deception, betrayal, and ruthless tactics. It reminds us to place our trust in God, not in flawed human institutions.
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