By Douglas K. Wilson, Ph.D.
Dean, Office for Global Engagement, University of Mobile
DEPOSED
2 Samuel 15:10–16, 24–30
Absalom, King David’s son, strategically won a following of loyal supporters. Over time the prince “stole the hearts of the men of Israel” by intercepting would-be visitors to Jerusalem, hearing their grievances, campaigning for a place of prominence in the kingdom and endearing himself to them through his affectionate welcome. The opening verses of the chapter provide details of Absalom’s strategy to depose his father as king.
Entitlement (10–12)
Prince Absalom conspired to declare himself king. Religious deception was his ruse, explaining to David that he had previously made a vow to Yahweh that must be fulfilled in Hebron (15:8). It seems that he felt entitled to be king, just as he justified his murder of Amnon. Men who accompanied the prince to Hebron became tangled in the web of Absalom’s conspiracy, discovering the prince’s plot only after their arrival.
Upcoming generations of Baptists must avoid the temptation to assume entitlement to positions for which they are not called or equipped. Like Absalom, some gain roles of prominence by means of popularity, without demonstrating any measure of spiritual commitment or maturity. Without proper discernment a church may find itself with positional leadership, which demonstrates neither biblical wisdom nor doctrinal understanding. To avoid this scenario, the Apostle Paul instructed Timothy that overseers must not be novices and that deacons must be tested before being ordained to service.
Fright (13–16)
David feared for his family and for the city of Jerusalem. Absalom had a murderous streak and he had no inhibitions about killing members of the royal family. Unlike David, who honored Saul as the Lord’s anointed king even as Saul hunted him, Absalom had no such convictions. David told his servants to leave quickly for their own sake and the sake of the city.
Flight (24–30)
As a man of war, David knew that there were times to take flight and times to stand one’s ground in the face of danger. He faced down a lion and a bear, felled a giant and survived the onslaught of a king troubled by an evil spirit. No one could accuse David of cowardice. Out of concern for his people and honor for God, he took the inhabitants and the Ark of the Covenant out of Jerusalem. Even resident aliens were protected by the king’s edict to evacuate.
Though David fled the city, the king had not given up hope. He strategically placed loyal men in the midst of Absalom’s camp. He also established communications by which he would be kept informed of his son’s plans.
Separation is sometimes the best solution for divided people. After all, Jesus said, “No city or house divided against itself will stand” (Matt. 12:25). Abram separated from Lot, Jacob moved away from Esau and Paul refused to travel again with John Mark. Abram would later rescue Lot. Jacob would return to Esau. Paul would later note that Mark had become “useful to me for ministry” (2 Tim. 4:11). David had previously separated from Absalom, leading to eventual reconciliation. Perhaps it would happen again.
Our sin separates us from God (Isa. 59:2). Apart from His grace, we stand condemned in blatant rebellion or passive resistance to His authority. As the Spirit convicts us of our sin against God, may we humble ourselves and surrender to our sovereign King. May we become faithful ambassadors of His message of reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:18–21).
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