How does 2 Samuel 16:20 demonstrate the consequences of ungodly counsel? Setting the Scene in 2 Samuel 16 • David has fled Jerusalem. Absalom marches in, determined to seize the throne (16:15). • Absalom’s first recorded act as king is to turn to Ahithophel, David’s formerly trusted counselor. • 2 Samuel 16:20: “Then Absalom said to Ahithophel, ‘Give your counsel. What shall we do?’” Absalom’s Question: A Window into His Heart • No prayer, no prophet, no priest—only a political strategist. • By bypassing the Lord, Absalom shows he trusts human wisdom over divine revelation (cf. Psalm 33:16-17). • His question sounds practical, yet it springs from ambition and bitterness, not a desire to honor God (James 3:14-16). Marks of Ungodly Counsel in the Passage • Satisfies the flesh: Ahithophel’s immediate advice is sexual—“Sleep with your father’s concubines” (16:21). • Flaunts sin publicly: “All Israel will hear” (16:21). Ungodly counsel often applauds open rebellion (Isaiah 5:20). • Ignores Scripture: Exodus 20:14 condemns adultery; Leviticus 18:8 forbids uncovering a father’s nakedness. • Appears brilliant yet breeds destruction: “The advice of Ahithophel…was like one who inquires of the word of God” (16:23), but its fruit is death (Proverbs 14:12). Ripple Effects of Ahithophel’s Advice 1. Personal degradation • Absalom’s conscience hardens; immorality becomes policy (Romans 1:24-25). 2. National scandal • A roof-top spectacle fulfills Nathan’s prophecy of public judgment (2 Samuel 12:11-12). 3. Fractured relationships • Ahithophel’s counsel alienates father and son permanently. 4. Spiritual fallout • God’s presence is absent from Absalom’s camp; victory shifts to David (2 Samuel 17:14). 5. Physical death • Ahithophel, seeing his advice rejected later, hangs himself (17:23). • Absalom dies in battle, caught in a tree, speared through the heart (18:14-15). 6. Lingering sorrow • David’s anguished cry, “O my son Absalom” (18:33), echoes the grief ungodly counsel leaves behind. Biblical Echoes and Reinforcements • Psalm 1:1—“Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked.” • Proverbs 13:20—“A companion of fools suffers harm.” • 1 Kings 12:6-19—Rehoboam repeats the pattern, heeding reckless advice and splitting the kingdom. • Galatians 6:7-8—Sowing to the flesh reaps corruption. Lessons for Today • The first voice we invite shapes our destiny; seek the Lord before seeking experts. • Counsel that contradicts Scripture, even when culturally acceptable, courts disaster. • Public sin amplifies private rebellion; hidden motives eventually surface. • God may permit ungodly counsel to fulfill judgment, yet He vindicates those who remain faithful. |
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