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Absalom works to garner support by being a populist “man of the people.” He launches his rebellion from Hebron, causing David to flee from Jerusalem. King David then finds out who his real friends are.

Notes on 2 Samuel 15:1-37

Joab, King David’s general and advisor, sets up a ruse to play on David’s emotions and persuade him to bring his son Absalom back from exile. David finally agrees, but Absalom is still not reconciled, which nurtures a spirit of rebellion within him.

Notes on 2 Samuel 14:1-33

Nathan’s prophecy of judgment on David’s house continues as David’s son Amnon rapes his sister Tamar, which enrages her other brother Absalom and plants a seed of revenge and rebellion.

Notes on 2 Samuel 13:1-39

The prophet Nathan tells David a parable that is really an allegory for David’s adultery with Bathsheba and the murder of Uriah. David confesses and repents of his sin, and Psalm 51 describes the depth of his repentance. God forgives him, but the consequences of his actions bring tragedy to his house immediately and on into the future.

Notes for 2 Samuel 12:1-31 and Psalm 51

King David’s moral failure with Bathsheba as well as his arranged murder of her husband Uriah, left a stain on his name, the kingdom and God’s Law. It gives us a picture of the progression of sin in our own lives. It would take a confrontation with the prophet Nathan to bring David to repentance.

Notes on 2 Samuel 11:1-27

David’s offer of kindness to the Ammonite king is rejected and his ambassadors are humiliated. The Ammonites aided by the Syrians prepare for war. David’s general Joab’s exhortation to the troops (later quoted by Paul) is one we can apply to our own lives today.

Notes on 2 Samuel 10:1-19