The episode concerning Joab's role in the numbering of Israel is a significant event recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in 2 Samuel 24 and 1 Chronicles 21. Joab, the commander of King David's army, is a central figure in this narrative, and his actions and conscience provide insight into the moral and spiritual dynamics at play.

Biblical Context

The account begins with King David deciding to conduct a census of Israel and Judah. In 2 Samuel 24:1, it is noted, "Again the anger of the LORD burned against Israel, and He incited David against them, saying, 'Go, take a census of Israel and Judah.'" This decision, however, was met with resistance from Joab, who perceived the census as a potential transgression against God's will.

Joab's Objection

Joab's conscience is notably troubled by David's command. In 1 Chronicles 21:3, Joab responds to the king, "May the LORD multiply His troops a hundred times over. My lord the king, are they not all my lord’s servants? Why does my lord want to do this? Why should he bring guilt on Israel?" Joab's objection highlights his awareness of the potential spiritual consequences of the census, suggesting a sensitivity to divine law and the welfare of the nation.

Reluctant Compliance

Despite his reservations, Joab ultimately complies with David's order, though his actions suggest a continued internal conflict. In 2 Samuel 24:4, it is recorded, "Nevertheless, the king’s word prevailed against Joab and the commanders of the army. So they left the presence of the king to enroll the fighting men of Israel." Joab's reluctant compliance indicates a tension between his duty to the king and his understanding of what is right before God.

Partial Obedience

Joab's conscience is further evidenced by his incomplete execution of the task. In 1 Chronicles 21:6, it is noted, "But Joab did not include Levi and Benjamin in the numbering, because the king’s command was detestable to him." This selective obedience underscores Joab's internal struggle and his attempt to mitigate the perceived wrongdoing by excluding certain tribes from the census.

Divine Judgment and Aftermath

The consequences of the census were severe, as God sent a plague upon Israel, resulting in the death of 70,000 men (2 Samuel 24:15). This divine judgment affirmed Joab's initial apprehensions and highlighted the gravity of the sin in God's eyes. David's subsequent repentance and offering of sacrifices (2 Samuel 24:17-25) were necessary to appease God's wrath and bring an end to the plague.

Theological Implications

Joab's role in the numbering of Israel serves as a poignant example of the complexities of conscience, authority, and obedience. His initial resistance and partial compliance reflect a deep-seated awareness of divine principles, even when faced with royal commands. This narrative underscores the importance of aligning one's actions with God's will, the potential consequences of disobedience, and the necessity of repentance and atonement in restoring divine favor.

In summary, Joab's conscience in the matter of numbering Israel reveals a man caught between loyalty to his king and fidelity to God's commands, illustrating the enduring tension between human authority and divine law.1 Chronicles 21:1-7
And Satan stood up against Israel, and provoked David to number Israel.
Nave's Topical Index

National Sins and Miseries
... clearly appear wherein the sin of thus numbering the people ... not a man of the tenderest
conscience, so that ... "Joab answered, Why doth my lord require this thing ...
/.../wesley/sermons on several occasions/sermon 130 national sins and.htm

Discussion of the Subject of Permission
... 1 Kings 21), in which cases the numbering of the ... to negligence, especially because
he had Joab, a distinguished ... other sins: for by sin the conscience is wounded ...
/.../arminius/the works of james arminius vol 3/discussion of the subject of.htm

Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners:
... words and customs are explained; the numbering of his ... God had brought the children
of Israel through the Red ... you; remember your terrors of conscience, and fear ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/grace abounding to the chief.htm

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