Then Absalom said, "Summon Hushai the Archite as well, and let us hear what he too has to say." Then Absalom said,Absalom, the third son of King David, is in the midst of a rebellion against his father. This moment occurs during a critical point in his attempt to seize the throne. Absalom's actions are driven by ambition and a desire for power, reflecting the fulfillment of Nathan's prophecy in 2 Samuel 12:11, where God foretold that calamity would arise from within David's own house. Absalom's rebellion is a direct consequence of David's earlier sins, illustrating the principle of reaping what one sows (Galatians 6:7). 2Sa 16:20 Then Absalom said to Ahithophel, “Give me counsel.… “Summon Hushai the Archite as well, Hushai the Archite is a friend and loyal supporter of King David. His presence in Absalom's court is part of a strategic plan devised by David to counteract the counsel of Ahithophel, Absalom's advisor. The term "Archite" indicates Hushai's origin from the region of Archi, near Bethel, which is significant as it places him within the tribal territories of Ephraim or Benjamin. Hushai's role is crucial in the unfolding narrative, as he serves as a type of Christ in his loyalty and willingness to suffer for the sake of his king, paralleling Christ's loyalty to the Father. 2Sa 15:34-37 But you can thwart the counsel of Ahithophel… and let us hear what he too has to say.” Absalom's decision to consult Hushai demonstrates his desire to weigh multiple perspectives, though it ultimately reveals his lack of discernment. This moment is pivotal, as Hushai's counsel will lead to Absalom's downfall. The request to hear Hushai's opinion highlights the biblical theme of seeking wisdom and the importance of discerning godly counsel, as seen in Proverbs 11:14, which states that victory is found in an abundance of counselors. Hushai's advice, inspired by God, will counter Ahithophel's seemingly wise counsel, illustrating the sovereignty of God in directing the affairs of men to fulfill His divine purposes. 2Sa 16:23 Now in those days, the advice of Ahithophel was… Persons / Places / Events 1. AbsalomThe son of King David, who rebelled against his father and sought to take over the kingdom of Israel. 2. Hushai the Archite A loyal friend and advisor to King David, who infiltrated Absalom's court to act as a spy and counter the counsel of Ahithophel. 3. Ahithophel A highly esteemed counselor whose advice was considered almost as if one had consulted the word of God. He initially sided with Absalom during the rebellion. 4. David The reigning king of Israel, father of Absalom, and a man after God's own heart, who was in exile during Absalom's rebellion. 5. Jerusalem The capital city of Israel, where Absalom set up his temporary court during his rebellion against David. Teaching Points The Importance of Wise CounselAbsalom's decision to seek advice from multiple counselors highlights the need for discernment and wisdom in leadership. Believers should seek godly counsel in their own lives. Loyalty and Deception Hushai's role as a double agent underscores the complexity of loyalty and the use of deception for a greater good. Christians must navigate these situations with integrity and prayerful consideration. God's Sovereignty in Human Affairs Despite Absalom's rebellion and the counsel of Ahithophel, God's plan for David's kingship prevailed. This teaches us to trust in God's ultimate control over our circumstances. The Consequences of Rebellion Absalom's actions serve as a warning about the dangers of pride and rebellion against God-ordained authority. Believers are called to submit to God's will and authority in their lives. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Absalom's decision to consult multiple advisors reflect the biblical principle of seeking wise counsel, and how can we apply this in our own decision-making processes?2. In what ways does Hushai's loyalty to David demonstrate the importance of faithfulness in our relationships, and how can we cultivate such loyalty in our own lives? 3. How does the account of Absalom's rebellion illustrate the consequences of pride and rebellion, and what steps can we take to guard against these attitudes in our hearts? 4. How can we discern when deception might be justified for a greater good, as seen in Hushai's actions, and what biblical principles should guide us in such situations? 5. How does the outcome of Absalom's rebellion reinforce the concept of God's sovereignty, and how can this understanding bring comfort and assurance in our own lives? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Samuel 15:34-35This passage provides background on the relationship between David and his advisors, highlighting the importance of wise counsel. Proverbs 11:14 This verse emphasizes the value of having multiple counselors, which is relevant to Absalom's decision to seek advice from both Ahithophel and Hushai. Psalm 55:12-14 David laments betrayal by a close friend, which can be connected to Ahithophel's betrayal and Hushai's loyalty. James 1:5 Encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, paralleling the need for divine guidance in decision-making.
People Abiathar, Abigail, Absalom, Ahimaaz, Ahithophel, Amasa, Ammiel, Ammonites, Arkite, Barzillai, Dan, David, Hushai, Ithra, Jesse, Jether, Joab, Jonathan, Machir, Nahash, Shobi, Zadok, ZeruiahPlaces Bahurim, Beersheba, Dan, En-rogel, Gilead, Jerusalem, Jordan River, Lo-debar, Mahanaim, Rabbah, RogelimTopics Absalom, Ab'salom, Archite, Arkite, Ear, Hushai, Likewise, Mouth, Says, SummonDictionary of Bible Themes 2 Samuel 17:1-16Library "The King Kissed Barzillai. " 2 Sam. xix. 39And no wonder, for David could appreciate a real man when he saw him, and so does David's Lord. I.--LOYALTY IS PRECIOUS TO THE KING OF KINGS. In the days when the son of Jesse had but few friends, it was a precious thing to be treated in the style Barzillai and his neighbours entertained him (see 2 Sam. xvii. 27-29). They were rich farmers, and had land which brought forth with abundance, so were able to act with princely hospitality to the fugitive monarch. But plenty may live with avarice, and … Thomas Champness—Broken Bread The Nations of the South-East Barzillai Continued. David and Jonathan's Son Mr. John Bunyan's Dying Sayings. Letter xxxvi (Circa A. D. 1131) to the Same Hildebert, who had not yet Acknowledged the Lord Innocent as Pope. King of Kings and Lord of Lords Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire from 745 to 722 B. C. Samuel Links 2 Samuel 17:5 NIV2 Samuel 17:5 NLT 2 Samuel 17:5 ESV 2 Samuel 17:5 NASB 2 Samuel 17:5 KJV 2 Samuel 17:5 Commentaries Bible Hub |
    |