What role does communication play in the events of 2 Samuel 17:15? Setting the backdrop • Absalom has seized Jerusalem and is plotting to destroy his father, King David (2 Samuel 15–17). • David’s loyal friend Hushai has infiltrated Absalom’s inner circle to frustrate the rebel strategy (2 Samuel 15:32–37). • Ahithophel urges an immediate strike; Hushai counters with a delay that will give David time to regroup (2 Samuel 17:1–14). Key verse “Then Hushai told Zadok and Abiathar the priests, ‘This is what Ahithophel has counseled Absalom and the elders of Israel, and this is what I have advised.’” (2 Samuel 17:15) Why communication matters here • It transmits life-saving intelligence. Without Hushai’s report, David would never learn the danger or the window of opportunity before him (17:16). • It forms a covert network. Priests Zadok and Abiathar relay the message through their sons Ahimaaz and Jonathan, while a servant girl carries it past enemy eyes (17:17–18). • It exposes false counsel. Hushai’s words reveal Ahithophel’s lethal plan, allowing David to act on truthful information (Proverbs 12:19). • It fulfills divine providence. The Lord had ordained to “thwart the good counsel of Ahithophel” (17:14); faithful communication becomes the human means God uses. Traits of godly communication on display 1. Truthful—Hushai reports exactly what was said (Ephesians 4:25). 2. Timely—speed is essential; messengers run the same night (17:21–22; Proverbs 25:11). 3. Discreet—secrecy protects the innocent (17:19–20; Proverbs 11:13). 4. Courageous—everyone in the chain risks death for speaking up (17:21; Acts 4:20). 5. Purpose-driven—the words aim to preserve God’s anointed king and His covenant promises (Psalm 89:28–29). Results of faithful communication • David safely crosses the Jordan before daylight (17:22). • Ahithophel’s counsel is neutralized, leading to his own demise (17:23). • Absalom’s campaign unravels, paving the way for David’s eventual restoration (2 Samuel 19:9–15). Takeaways for us • Speak truth that protects and preserves life. • Value timely, well-channeled information as a tool God uses to advance His purposes. • Combine courage with discretion; both are needed to communicate righteously in hostile settings. • Trust that God sovereignly works through ordinary conversations to accomplish His redemptive plans (Romans 8:28). |
    |