Hushai replied, "This time the advice of Ahithophel is not sound." Hushai replied,Hushai the Archite was a loyal friend and advisor to King David. In the context of 2 Samuel 17, he was sent back to Jerusalem by David to act as a spy and counter the counsel of Ahithophel, who had sided with Absalom during his rebellion. Hushai's role is crucial in the narrative as he provides David with intelligence and seeks to thwart Ahithophel's plans. His presence in Absalom's court is a strategic move, highlighting the theme of divine providence and loyalty. 2Sa 16:18 “Not at all,” Hushai answered. “For the one chosen by the LORD… “This time The phrase "this time" indicates a specific moment in the ongoing conflict between David and Absalom. It suggests that Ahithophel's previous advice had been sound and effective, which aligns with his reputation for wisdom. However, this particular instance marks a turning point where Hushai sees an opportunity to intervene. The timing is critical, as it reflects the unfolding of God's plan to protect David and ensure the continuation of his dynasty, as promised in 2 Samuel 7:12-16. Exo 10:17 Now please forgive my sin once more and appeal to the LORD… the advice of Ahithophel Ahithophel was known for his wise counsel, and his advice was highly regarded, as seen in 2 Samuel 16:23, where it is said that his counsel was like consulting the word of God. His defection to Absalom was a significant blow to David, both politically and personally. Ahithophel's advice to Absalom was to pursue David immediately, which would have likely resulted in David's defeat. This highlights the gravity of the situation and the potential consequences if Hushai's intervention had not occurred. 2Sa 15:31 Now someone told David: “Ahithophel is among the conspirators… is not sound.” Hushai's assertion that Ahithophel's advice "is not sound" is a strategic move to buy David time. By undermining Ahithophel's counsel, Hushai aims to protect David and disrupt Absalom's plans. This moment is pivotal, as it demonstrates the theme of divine intervention and wisdom. Hushai's ability to persuade Absalom to reject Ahithophel's advice is seen as God's hand at work, ensuring the fulfillment of His promises to David. This also foreshadows the eventual downfall of Absalom and the restoration of David's reign. Isa 8:10 Devise a plan, but it will be thwarted; state a proposal,… Persons / Places / Events 1. Hushai the ArchiteA loyal friend and advisor to King David, Hushai was sent back to Jerusalem to act as a spy and counter the counsel of Ahithophel, who had sided with Absalom. 2. Absalom The son of King David who rebelled against his father, seeking to usurp the throne of Israel. His rebellion is a central event in this account. 3. Ahithophel A highly esteemed counselor whose advice was considered almost as if one had consulted the word of God. He defected to Absalom's side during the rebellion. 4. David The King of Israel, father of Absalom, and the central figure in the books of Samuel. At this time, he is fleeing from Absalom's rebellion. 5. Jerusalem The capital city of Israel, where Absalom has taken control and where Hushai and Ahithophel are advising him. Teaching Points The Importance of Godly CounselHushai's intervention shows the importance of seeking and discerning godly counsel. In our lives, we should seek advisors who are aligned with God's will. God's Sovereignty Over Human Plans Despite Ahithophel's wisdom, God's plan prevails. This reminds us that no matter how wise human plans may seem, God's purpose will stand. Loyalty and Faithfulness Hushai's loyalty to David, even at great personal risk, is a model of faithfulness. We are called to be loyal to God and His anointed leaders. The Consequences of Rebellion Absalom's rebellion against his father is a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of pride and ambition. We must guard our hearts against rebellion against God's authority. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Hushai's response to Absalom demonstrate the importance of discernment in leadership?2. In what ways can we ensure that the counsel we receive aligns with God's will, as seen in the contrast between Hushai and Ahithophel? 3. Reflect on a time when God's plan prevailed over human wisdom in your life. How does this reinforce your trust in His sovereignty? 4. How can Hushai's loyalty to David inspire us to be faithful in our relationships and commitments today? 5. What lessons can we learn from Absalom's rebellion about the dangers of pride and ambition, and how can we apply these lessons to avoid similar pitfalls in our own lives? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Samuel 15:23This verse highlights the theme of rebellion against God's anointed, which is relevant to Absalom's rebellion against David. Proverbs 19:21 This verse speaks to the sovereignty of God's plans over human counsel, which is evident in the outcome of Hushai's advice over Ahithophel's. Psalm 41:9 David's lament about betrayal by a close friend can be seen as a reflection of Ahithophel's betrayal.
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, Advice, Ahithophel, Ahith'ophel, Ahithophel's, Counsel, Counselled, Hushai, Idea, RepliedDictionary of Bible Themes 2 Samuel 17:7Library "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 17:7 NIV2 Samuel 17:7 NLT 2 Samuel 17:7 ESV 2 Samuel 17:7 NASB 2 Samuel 17:7 KJV 2 Samuel 17:7 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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