What is the meaning of 2 Samuel 18:25? The watchman calls out “So he called out and told the king.” (2 Samuel 18:25a) • David has stationed a lookout at the gate (2 Samuel 18:24) while he waits for news about Absalom’s rebellion (2 Samuel 18:6-8). • A single runner is spotted. In the culture of the day, messengers ran ahead of armies to deliver battlefield updates (2 Kings 9:17). • By immediately informing David, the watchman models vigilance and loyalty, qualities praised elsewhere in Scripture (Proverbs 27:18; Ezekiel 33:6). • The scene underscores that God often lets leaders receive timely, reliable information so they can act wisely (1 Samuel 23:9-12). David’s immediate interpretation “‘If he is alone,’ the king replied…” (2 Samuel 18:25b) • David reasons that a lone figure is most likely a courier, whereas a group would suggest approaching troops or fugitives (2 Samuel 18:26). • His quick discernment reflects years of military experience (1 Samuel 18:13-16) and dependence on God’s guidance (Psalm 18:32-34). • The logic anticipates Jesus’ teaching that prudent observation can reveal larger truths (Luke 12:54-56). Expectation of good news “…‘he bears good news.’” (2 Samuel 18:25c) • “Good news” (cf. 2 Samuel 18:19) meant victory or deliverance, echoing earlier examples: a messenger’s “good news” of Saul’s death was falsely claimed for reward (2 Samuel 4:10), while the lepers in Samaria brought “good news” of divine rescue (2 Kings 7:9-11). • Isaiah later uses the same term for the proclamation of salvation (Isaiah 52:7), and the New Testament applies it to Christ’s gospel (Luke 2:10-11). • David hopes the report confirms God’s faithfulness to protect His anointed, consistent with promises in Psalm 21:1-7. The messenger approaches “As the first runner drew near,” (2 Samuel 18:25d) • The pace of the runner builds anticipation; the watchman will soon recognize him as Ahimaaz by his distinctive stride (2 Samuel 18:27). • Two runners—Ahimaaz and the Cushite (2 Samuel 18:21-23, 31)—illustrate that God can use different servants to carry His message, yet timing and order remain under His sovereign control (Proverbs 16:9). • The approaching figure also pictures how God’s word races swiftly to accomplish His purpose (Psalm 147:15). summary 2 Samuel 18:25 reveals a moment of tense expectation: a solitary runner signals to David that a decisive message—likely victory—approaches. The verse highlights vigilance, discernment, and hope in God’s deliverance. While David anticipates good news about the battle, the fuller passage reminds us that even joyful tidings can carry painful elements, yet God remains faithful to His promises and His word arrives exactly when needed. |
    |