Absalom Rebels Against David

II Samuel 15:1–12
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In order to show himself in a position of authority, Absalom provides himself a “chariot of horses”  and “men to run ahead of him” (vv. 1-6). His plan was to in a simple and subtle way establish himself as a leader of the people of Israel. Early each morning he would position himself along the main road leading to Jerusalem. This was where disgruntled citizens were expected to bring their complaints to a person of royal position. When the person is asked what town he is from and from what tribe of Israel Absalom will assure that person that he has the authority to hear the case. Absalom then suggests that if he is appointed judge he will personally see to it that justice is served. He implies that he himself and not King David, is best suited to provide them with justice. Thus Absalom “stole the hearts” of the men of Israel.

After Absalom has lived in Jerusalem for four years he decides that it is time for him to seize the kingdom (vv. 7-12). As a way of masking his true intentions he asks David for permission to go to Hebron (Where David was first appointed king) to fulfill a vow that he had made to the Lord. David, apparently unsuspecting, tells his son to “go in peace.” Absalom then sends out “secret messengers” to the various tribal territories to tell them that at the “sound of the trumpet” he is to be declared king of Israel. A large group of men from Jerusalem, unsuspecting of Absalom’s true intentions, has accompanied him to Hebron. He then gets Ahithophel, one of David’s own counselors to join him. It is therefore understandable that as Bathsheba’s grandfather he was an enemy of David. This evil alliance of Absalom’s ambition and Ahithophel’s advice causes Absalom’s following to increase.

Application

The hunger for power and authority causes men to do all sorts of things to climb the “so called ladder of success.” If we are already in the center of God’s will we can never climb to a higher position. It has been my desire to reach people with the Gospel of Christ and I seek no other position. I love ministering to youth and want to do that as long as I possibly can.