Choice Notes On Joshua Through 2 Kings
by F B Meyer
Introduction
2 Samuel 1 A Song Of Lamentation
2 Samuel 2 David Crowned King
2 Samuel 3 Joab And Abner
2 Samuel 4 Ish-bosheth
2 Samuel 5 The City Of David
2 Samuel 6 The Ark Brought To Zion
2 Samuel 7 God's Promises To David
2 Samuel 8 From Egypt To The Euphrates
2 Samuel 9 Mephibosheth
2 Samuel 10 The Ammonites
2 Samuel 11 David's Sin
2 Samuel 12 Confession And Forgiveness
2 Samuel 13 Sin And Sorrow
2 Samuel 14 The Woman Of Tekoah
2 Samuel 15 Absalom's Rebellion
2 Samuel 16 Shimei's Curse
2 Samuel 17 A Type Of Judas
2 Samuel 18 Absalom's Death
2 Samuel 19 David's Triumphant Return
2 Samuel 20 Sheba's Rebellion
1 Samuel 21 Three Year's Famine
1 Samuel 22 A Psalm Of Thanksgiving
1 Samuel 23 David's Mighty Men
1 Samuel 24 Numbering The People
Introduction
This Book, of course, only bears its name because, in the Hebrew Bible, it is so closely connected with the preceding.
The two books originally constituted one, and the present division was first made in the Septuagint, and adopted
thence into the Vulgate, from which it passed into common use.
Obviously it was composed by some of the prophets in the days of David, perhaps by Nathan or Gad (1Ch 29:29). It
is noticeable that the death of David is not actually recorded in the book, from which it is fair to infer that
this account must have been as nearly as possible contemporaneous with his life and reign. The same conclusion
is suggested by the lists of public functionaries.
This book is remarkable for the beautiful Odes or Songs which it contains;
(1) The Song of the Bow;
(2) The Lamentation over Abner;
(3) A Song of David (2 Sam. 22) that seems to partake of that gladness and lightsomeness of spirit which filled
his heart in the earlier days of his reign;
(4) The last words of David (2 Sam 23:2-7).
The period covered by this book would be almost forty years, from David's accession to the throne of Judah, to
his death. His wars and victories; his extension of the border of Israel to the limits originally predicted to
Abraham; his sins and chastisement and restoration -- all these contribute their various lines to this fascinating
picture.
2 SAMUEL 1
A SONG OF LAMENTATION
2 Sam 1:1-10 Tidings from Gilboa. -- The Amalekite who came to David with the news of Saul's death (2 Sam 1:1-2),
invented a story in which he figured as giving the death-blow to Saul. It is impossible to reconcile his story
with 1Sam 31:1-13. Probably he had followed the camp, that, after the battle he might plunder the slain; and, finding
Saul's body and crown, was induced to make up his story, in the hope of winning David's favor. The crown would
be a helmet, surrounded by a band of gold. Bracelets would be signs of royalty. It is remarkable, and more than
a coincidence, that an Amalekite claimed to have slain Saul, who had spared his race (1 Sam. 15). If we spare the
flesh, of which Amalek is always the type, it will not spare us. Mercy is ill-expended on that which is so deadly
in its nature.
2 Sam 1:11-16 David's magnanimity. -- The Amalekite thought that he understood human nature, but he had not gauged
David's heart. Having given his message, he waits for his reward, which he gets, not as he expected, but as he
deserved. Amid the lawlessness of an outlaw's life, the education of David's soul had been continually advancing.
He would not condone the deed which injured the Lord's anointed; though it put a crown within his reach, and seemed
to fulfil the promises of God. There was no doubt in his mind that God could fulfil His promise without the aid
of sin, in himself or any one else. David's address to this man (2 Sam 1:14) corresponded with his own behavior
on two former occasions, when he had spared Saul's life. This conception of God was far in advance of the notions
of that age. Be sure that God will deliver you without your putting forth your hand to what conscience would condemn.
2 Sam 1:17-27 The Song of the Bow. -- In 2 Sam 1:18, the R.V. inserts for the use of the bow, the song of the bow.
These verses were known as "the bow" either because of the occurrence of that word in 2 Sam 1:22, or
from the facts narrated in 1Sam 31:3. "The beauty of Israel" (2 Sam 1:19) is translated "Thy glory,
O Israel" in R.V. 2 Sam 1:21, "The shield of the mighty is defiled" (R.V., marg.); perhaps with
blood and dust, as of one not anointed (R.V., marg.), i.e., common soldier. 2 Sam 1:24, David forgets all his sufferings
at the hands of Saul, and speaks of him as he was in his best days. The grief is evidently so genuine, that we
must admire the work of the Spirit of God, and remember it when we are dealing with expressions in the Psalms that
seem full of personal denunciation.
2 SAMUEL 2
DAVID CROWNED KING
2 Sam 2:1-7 A morning without clouds. -- David takes no further step at his own impulse, but waits before God,
that He should direct him. This was a most blessed habit with David. He did nothing from his own origination. The
language of his life was, "My soul, wait thou only upon God" His steps were ordered by the Lord, who
delighted in his way. From how many blunders should we be saved; if we leaned less on our own understanding, and
in all our ways acknowledged Him! There is no haste to them that wait on the Lord. They know that He will give,
and abide His time. God is preparing deliverance for them, and them for it.
The first act of the new king was to send a conciliatory message to the man of Jabesh. To show kindness to Saul,
was to show kindness to David. And he dexterously accosted them as his allies, asking them to supplement words
with deeds, if occasion arose. The reign of David in Hebron, preceding by seven years his ascension to the throne
of the entire realm, was a prefiguration of the reign of Jesus over His Church, as distinguished from His reign
over the world. From Hebron the bands of mighty men went forth to war with Ish-bosheth, as the warriors of the
Cross with the deadly evils around. But the end is not yet.
2 Sam. 2:12-32 The reign of Ish-bosheth. -- Joab was the son of David's sister, Zeruiah. Gibeon was near the frontier
of Judah, David's new kingdom. This movement was intended as an attack on him, and to bring the whole kingdom back
to Saul's family. 2 Sam 2:27, Joab said that if Abner had not spoken as he did in the morning (2 Sam 2:14), there
would have been no hostile encounter; and that he had simply repelled aggression. The chapter illustrates the distress
of a divided heart. When a realm is torn with internal dissension there is no progress or power. Have you only
surrendered part of your nature to God's appointed king? You will be the subject of perpetual anguish and conflict
till He rules all (ISam 9:6-7).
2 SAMUEL 3
JOAB AND ABNER
2 Sam 3:1-5 David's growing power. -- David represented the best traditions, and he expressed the noblest hopes
of his people. And it was inevitable that God's purpose should be fulfilled in him and in his gradual rise to supreme
power. Probably he was calm and confident, prepared to await the developing of the Divine purpose.
2 Sam 3:6-11 Abner's quarrel with Ish-bosheth. -- The occasion was a woman, but it is marvellous how the passions
of men are overruled to fulfil the counsels of God. Abner was "a prince and a great man" according to
David's estimate (2 Sam 3:38); but his course was determined by ambition. He knew that David was God's appointed
king, and that through him the Divine purpose was to be accomplished (2 Sam 3:10); and yet for his own advancement
he set up Ish-bosheth, and maintained him by all the energy he possessed (2 Sam 3:6). It was a deliberate attempt
to thwart and override God's declared purpose. Woe to him that striveth with his Maker! The attempt, of course,
failed. And with his own hand he shattered the fabric he had taken so much trouble to rear.
Provoked by Ish-bosheth's remonstrance at his wedding with one of his father's wives, Abner suddenly turned against
him, and tried to make the best terms with David for himself; but whether in fighting for Saul's house, or plotting
against it, self-interest was his clue. They that seek their lives lose them; and Abner met his fate in direct
connection with the measures he adopted for his personal safety. Those who knowingly go into conflict against God
prepare for themselves swift destruction. No weapon that is formed against the Kingdom of Christ shall prosper.
2 Sam 3:12-21 His overtures to David. -- David's wife, Michel, had been faithful to him on one memorable occasion,
saving his life. Probably, however, he only claimed her now because he desired to remind the people of the close
connection between himself and the house of Saul. "Now then do it" (2 Sam 3:18), is a soldier's call
to decisive and prompt action. Let us be swift in acknowledging our Saviour as King. Benjamin was Saul's tribe,
and therefore needed special management.
2 Sam. 3:22-39 His murder. -- Asahel's death needed no such avengement as this; and, in lifting his hand against
his rival, Joab was probably moved more by jealousy than by a desire to righteously avenge the death of his brother.
He was evidently a fierce, cruel, unscrupulous, and treacherous man, and troubled David more than he helped him.
David had no partnership in the tragedy, and he made this abundantly clear. The spectacle of the king mourning
over his new ally touched the heart of the people. Abner had not died as a felon who must needs be bound, but as
a man who falleth before "the children of iniquity:'
2 SAMUEL 4
ISH-BOSHETH
2 Sam 4:1-8 The treacherous murder of Ish-bosheth. -- The death of Abner rendered the cause of Ish-bosheth hopeless.
Two "captains of bands" expose themselves to lasting shame by this dark deed of murder. Their act is
the more despicable, from their position near the person of their royal victim. Since Mephibosheth (2 Sam 4:4),
the legal avenger of the crime, was incapable of acting, they were the more bold. The Septuagint has further light
upon the circumstances attending the death. "And behold, the woman that kept the door of the house was winnowing
wheat, and she slumbered and slept; and the brethren went privately into the house" (2 Sam 4:6, R.V., marg.).
2 Sam 4:9-12 The deserved punishment of the murderers. -- David was careful to guard against the appearance of
any partnership with these evildoers. He knew that true loyalty could only be founded on respect. Besides, God's
name and character were closely involved with his own. Take heed to give men no cause against God by any doubtful
act. The only time when we need to vindicate our character, should be when there is a risk of involving our Lord's;
then we must take every measure to put ourselves beyond suspicion.
It was natural for David to allude to the living Lord, and His redeeming mercy (2 Sam 4:9). We too shall have reason
to magnify that mercy so long as life and immortality endure. Whatever be the trial through which you may be passing,
to be sure that, if you will be patient and trustful, and do not chafe nor worry nor allow yourself in any wise
to do evil, the time will come when you will be able to look back on it, and be able to say with David, "The
Lord redeemed my soul out of all adversity:'
Unwavering faith in God is the best preventative of sin. The man of faith can do no wrong, nor allow others to
do it, for his advantage.
2 SAMUEL 5
THE CITY OF DAVID
2 Sam 5:1-5 The Kingdom united under David. --
2 Sam 5:1, These tribes are enumerated in 1 Chronicles 12:23-40.
2 Sam 5:2, The kingship of Jesus is based on His kinship, His achievements, and Divine promises.
2 Sam 5:3, League, i.e., covenant (R.V.). The Hebrew king was under certain defined conditions.
2 Sam 5:4, Now the divided and distracted country was at rest -- an emblem of the blessed rest that comes to those
who give undivided allegiance, to Christ.
2 Sam 5:6-10 The new capital. -- Though destined to so remarkable a history, Jerusalem had not been especially
noticed in the foregoing history (Jos 18:28). The Jebusites were in possession of the fort of Zion, which was surrounded
on three sides by such deep ravines as to appear impregnable. Its inhabitants were so confident that they thought
that the blind and lame would be sufficient for its defense (R.V., marg.). David hoped that the choice of captain
might be decided for him by a display of personal valor on the part of one of his followers (2 Sam 5:8). 2 Sam
5:10, How blessed and happy are they who rely wholly on God! When we have well learned the lessons of adversity,
He makes us great. Our safety and victory are sure when the Lord, the God of hosts, is with us. What a history
Jerusalem has had since then, and is yet to have.
2 Sam 5:11-16 The established Kingdom. -- Tyre was a great trading city, on the sea-coast, to the north of Palestine.
Its people were famous for their knowledge of arts and manufacture, and the working of metals (Ezek. 27, 28). It
is a great matter when a man perceives, as David did (2 Sam 5:12), that he has been specially gifted and placed
by God in order to pass on to others the results of his labors or gifts. All that we have is ours in trust for
others -- talents to be used for our King.
David had eighteen sons. The daughters, except Tamar, are not named.
2 Sam 5:17-25 Victory over the Philistines. -- The growing prosperity of David's kingdom excited the fears of Israel's
ancient enemies. Twice therefore they gathered their force against David in the valley of the giants, southwest
of Jerusalem. By giving Jesus His rightful position as our King, we do not get free from conflict; but it is no
longer within, it is from without. David did not trust in his new fortress, but in the Lord (2 Sam 5:19). What
a contrast to Saul! All the glory of the successful campaign was given to God (2 Sam 5:20). David was equally dependent
on the Lord on the second occasion (2 Sam 5:23). His previous success did not make him self-confident. He accepted
God's plans, though they were quite different from the former ones. That stirring in the leaves (2 Sam 5:24) was
like the sound of the feet of God's army, His angels, hurrying to fight against the Philistines, while David awaited
the result. Oh, for the quick ear to detect the twelve legions of angels to our help!
2 SAMUEL 6
THE ARK BROUGHT TO ZION
2 Sam 6:1-10 A right thing wrongly done. -- We have not heard of the ark since the Philistines sent it back to
Kirjath (1Sam 7:1-2). The nation must have been in a sad state of religious declension, that the symbol of God's
presence should have been so neglected. The Tabernacle appears to have remained in Gibeon for some time after this
(1Ch 16:39-40). David's object in getting the ark to Jerusalem was to make that city the religious, as well as
the political center of the nation. There is a mystery about the story, until it is carefully examined. It appears
as though God were opposing David's purpose, and preventing its success. But He only opposed David's manner of
action. And it was very important that the precise directions of the Levitical law should be again enforced.
The journey here noted was from Kirjath-jearim to the house of Abinadab, at a short distance from the town. The
royal progress from Jerusalem is recorded in 1Ch 13:1-6, verses which tell us that David "consulted with the
captains of thousands and hundreds, and every leader." We are not told that he inquired of God in respect
to the bringing up of the ark. Had he done so, the error into which he fell might have been avoided. There was
a definite instruction in the Levitical law which had never been superseded; and David had no right to substitute
the new cart (2 Sam 6:3) for the shoulders of living men (Num 7:9; 1Ch 15:12-15). For cornets (2 Sam 6:5), R.V.
reads castanets. Uzzah's rashness (2 Sam 6:7, marg.) was punished by death. The lesson was dearly bought; but it
was very necessary. The Church, like the ark of God, needs no human hand to steady it.
2 Sam 6:11-15 A successful renewal of the attempt. -- Obed-edom was a Levite, of the family of Kohath, to whom
the care of the ark was entrusted by law; he is called Gittite because of the Levitical town of Gath-rimmon (Jos
21:24, Jos 21:25; 1Ch 6:24, 1Ch 6:69). God paid well for the lodgment of His ark. None ever lose who devote themselves
and their property for the furtherance of His cause. The ark, which was death to Uz-zah, was blessing to Obed-edom.
The difference lay in the characters of the two men. The sun that hardens clay melts wax.
Three months after the first attempt, the ark was carried up to the city of David with holy exultation and great
enthusiasm (2 Sam 6:14-15). And there was no accident, because David had carefully consulted God's word as to how
the ark should be removed (1Ch 15:12-15).
2 Sam 6:16-23 Michal. -- Michel's affections were now transferred to Phaltiel; and consequently she had no sympathy
with David's behavior, which seemed to her to be extravagant and undignified. PSam 65:1-13 is supposed to have
been composed on this occasion. David had prepared a special tabernacle (2 Sam 6:17), probably on the model of
that of Moses. 2 Sam 6:19, "A cake of bread, end a portion of flesh, and a cake of raisins" (R.V.). However
exciting and absorbing our public engagements, we must not forget the claims of family religion. Michal's speech
(2 Sam 6:20) was beside the mark; for although David had put off his royal robes, he still had on his inner dress
and the ephod. 2 Sam 6:21, compare 2Co 5:13.
2 SAMUEL 7
GOD'S PROMISES TO DAVID
2 Sam 7:1-3 David's desire. -- When David had rest, he spoke about building the Temple. It is out of the restful
heart that the noblest projects proceed. Mary, who sat at the Master's feet, broke on His sacred person the alabaster
box. The tranquil lake reflects more of the solemn beauty of the stars than the brawling stream. Evidently prosperity
had not injured David; but he desired to consecrate all God's gifts to further service. Gratitude prompted him
to make some return. How different he was from those whom Haggai reproved! (Hag 1:4). Prosperity tests the sincerity
of a man's devotion to God. It is not all men that can carry a full cup with a steady hand. Nathan evidently answered
at the impulse of his own mind (2 Sam 7:3). It takes a lifetime before we learn to ask God before speaking or acting.
2 Sam 7:4-17 God's reply. -- David's intention was good, and graciously accepted (1Ki 8:18); but he was not the
man, and that was not the time to build the Temple. War was not yet at an end. The sword could not yet be exchanged
for the trowel. "Better a tent of God's appointing than a temple of his own inventing" (Henry). What
a stream of blessed promises succeed! God is quick to notice the least desire to honor Him, and to reward it beyond
all that we ask or think. 6, God shares our wanderings. "Any of the tribes" (2 Sam 7:7) is rendered in
R.V. (marg.) "any of the Judges." 2 Sam 7:8, A really great man is not ashamed of his origin, and knows
that it is all the gift of his God. David must not build a house for God; but God will build a house for him (2
Sam 7:11). A son as successor, and a line of kings consummated in Jesus (Luk 1:31, Luk 1:33). An everlasting covenant,
which could not be broken by the sins of the following generations (2 Sam 7:15). They should be chastened, but
not put utterly away.
2 Sam 7:18-29 David's communion with God. -- It is well to have moments for holy reverie. When God has passed His
word of promise, let us go in and sit before Him, to thank Him, to rejoice before Him, to contemplate His gracious
promises, and to claim that He should fulfil them. God had spoken as men speak, binding Himself under similar pledges.
It is by trusting to the Word that God speaks (2 Sam 7:25) that faith claims and appropriates Divine gifts. Whenever
you have a promise brought to your heart, turn to God with these words. The true lover of God is above all things
eager that He should be magnified (2 Sam 7:26) in his body, whether by life or death. God's revelations lead us
to pray for things which otherwise we should not have dared to entertain.
2 SAMUEL 8
"FROM EGYPT TO THE EUPHRATES"
2 Sam 8:1 War against Philistia. -- Metheg-ammah is Gath (1Ch 18:1). The meaning of the word is "bridle of
the mother" (city); and what a bridle is in the management of a horse, that was Metheg to the land of Philistia.
By subduing that metropolis, David had the whole land in his power.
2 Sam 8:2 War against Moab. -- Eastern kings, when their enemies had made a peculiarly stubborn resistance, were
in the habit of making them, when conquered, lie down on the ground, and then putting a certain part of them to
death. Our version makes David keep one-third, other versions one-half alive. Jewish writers explain this unusual
severity by saying that the Moabites had massacred David's parents and family whom he had entrusted to their safe
keeping (see Balaam's prophecy, Num 24:17).
2 Sam 8:3-8 War against Zobah and Syria. -- David set about establishing the border of his kingdom at the river
Euphrates in accordance with God's ancient promise (Gen 15:18; Num 24:17). See R.V. as to David's forces; 1Ch 8:4
should also be referred to. The horses were of no service to David, as Israel was forbidden to use them; and they
dare not leave them for their foes to use again.
2 Sam 8:9-12 Submission of Hamath. -- Hamath was the chief city of a kingdom lying north of Palestine and west
of Zobah. The king, delivered through David of a dangerous neighbor, sent his son with valuable presents to David,
congratulating him on his victories, and soliciting his alliance and protection.
2 Sam 8:13-18 War with Syria and Edom. -- The Syrians, as afterwards (2Ki 16:6), were allied with Edom. It was
a great confederacy to quell David's growing power. Victory was gained through the bravery and skill of Abishai
and Joab (1Ch 18:12; Ps. 40 title).
Thus the Hebrew people became occupants of a vast extent of country, extending from the frontier of Egypt to the
Euphrates, and realizing God's original promise to Abraham (Gen. 15). The woodlands of Gilead, the pasture-lands
of Bashan, the harbors on the Red Sea, the caravan roads of the Euphrates, Arabia, and Egypt, were now within Hebrew
territory.
2 Sam 8:6-14 The source of victory. -- Victory over the Lord's foes and ours is a gift to be claimed by faith.
Do not doubt whether or not you shall succeed. Go forward, and the strongest opposition shall break in pieces;
only be sure to devote the spoils to God. Is there not a hint, in the dedication of the spoils of Gentile peoples
to the Temple, of the part which the Gentiles should have in the body of Christ?
2 Sam 8:15-18 David's home administration. -- While extending his dominions abroad, he was not neglectful of the
kingdom at home. The recorder kept the chronicles of the kingdom. The scribe would be the Secretary of State. The
names of Abiathar and Ahimelech have been transposed. On the massacre of the priests of Nob, Saul conferred the
priesthood on Zadok, of the family of Eleazar (1Ch 6:50), while David acknowledged Abiathar, of Ithamar's family,
who fled to him. The two exercised a joint-ministry when David became sole monarch. Abiathar officiated at Jerusalem,
and Zadok at Gibeon (1Ch 16:39). Cherethites, etc. - these were David's body-guard. Perhaps archers and slingers,
or headsmen and couriers. It is probable they were foreign mercenaries, who had gathered around David during his
sojourn in Philistia (1Sam 30:14, 1Sam 30:16; Zep 2:5)
2 SAMUEL 9
MEPHIBOSHETH
David's kindness to Mephibosheth is a beautiful incident in his history, and strikingly illustrates the grace of
our Lord Jesus.
It was unexpected and unsought. -- The young prince was spending a retired life with one of the great families
of the trans-Jordanic region. The thought of becoming an inmate of David's palace never occurred to him; and his
great nervousness needed David's most careful reassurances. "What is thy servant, that thou shouldest look
upon such a dead dog as I am?" "Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we
should be called the sons of God" "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord"
2 Sam 9:3-13 It was unlikely. -- He was lame. This sad infirmity dated from his birth (2 Sam 4:4). We, too, are
lame in our powers of spiritual obedience. We cannot do anything to merit the Divine regard.
It was not without good reason. -- Probably Mephibosheth knew nothing of the covenant into which David and Jonathan
had entered so long before (1Sam 20:14-16). But to David it was sacred; and even the unlovable son was dear to
him for his father's sake. For a similar reason does God look on us. We are loved in Him in whom we have been chosen.
God will ever be mindful of His covenant with His well-beloved Son.
It admitted him into the royal circle. -- Though consciously unworthy, he received again Saul's family estate (2
Sam 9:7), was admitted to the royal table, and treated as one of the king's sons (2 Sam 9:11); he had, in Ziba
and his household, a retinue worthy of a prince (2 Sam 9:10). All was due to the unmerited favor of the king; and
is a type of all those spiritual blessings with which the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ has blessed us
in heavenly places in Him (Eph 1:3).
2 SAMUEL 10
THE AMMONITES
2 Sam 10:1-5 Hanun's insult to David. -- Nahash, Hanun's father, had shown kindness to David. A Jewish tradition
says that he sheltered one of David's brothers when the king of Moab killed his parents. Courtesy is a part of
true piety (2 Sam 10:2). Beware of foolish counsellors (2 Sam 10:3, and 1Ki 12:10-11). The shaving of the beard
(2 Sam 10:4) was the grossest insult that could be offered to an Oriental, who deems the beard the badge of the
dignity of manhood. Through the ambassadors David and his kingdom were insulted. Thus do men insult God through
their treatment of His faithful servants.
2 Sam 10:6-19 The judgment which followed. -- Two wars are described (2 Sam 10:6-14, 2 Sam 10:15-19). Beth-rehob
(2 Sam 10:6, Jdg 18:28) lay beneath Lebanon; Zoba (2 Sam 8:3) lay between Hamath and Syria; Maacah (Deu 3:14) was
toward the south, near to Bashan; Tob is to the east of Gilead. The battle took place at Medeba; the native troops
covering the city, and the Syrians in the fields (1Ch 19:7-9). 2 Sam 10:8-11, The armies were so arranged that
a successful attack on either would leave the rear of Israel's army exposed. So Joab, with characteristic decision,
determines to attack both, He mentions two possibilities, but never seems to think that both he and Abishai will
be defeated. Let us never anticipate anything but victory in fighting God's battles. 2 Sam 10:16, Hadarezer had
been able to recuperate his energies after his defeat (2 Sam 8:3); now, alarmed at David's growing power, and being
an ally of Hanun, he raised an army, not only in Syria, but in Mesopotamia. Shobach, his general, invaded David's
kingdom as far as Helam, a border town of eastern Manasseh; but David, crossing the Jordan, surprised and defeated
him.
The spirit of the New Testament is distinguished from the Old in its refusal to avenge insult or injury. These
may be left to God. At the same time, the Divine purpose was served in punishing the crimes of these heathen nations,
and in strengthening the Hebrew people. There is a judgment of nations, as well as of individuals (Mat 25:32).
2 SAMUEL 11
DAVID'S SIN
2 Sam 11:1-5 The story of David's sin.
2 Sam 11:1, It began in sloth. The brunt of the war described in the previous chapter had fallen rather on Syria;
now vengeance must be taken on Ammon. There are times when we are summoned to do God's bidding against His foes.
If, then, we refuse, and linger in self-indulgence, we expose ourselves to terrific assaults of our great adversary.
Idleness is the devil's opportunity. "The devil tempts all men; but idle men tempt the devil:' David had just
risen from his mid-day siesta when he was tempted. Temptation entered through the look (2 Sam 11:2). So Eve (Gen
3:6); and Achan (Jos 7:21). Well may we put our eyes into the Lord's keeping! How often temptation enters through
them! Whatever be our attainments in the Divine life, we are never beyond the peril of falling into sin, which
will blacken our record, and bring sorrow on all our days. The more intimate you are with God, and honored in His
service, the more virulent the devil's hate, and his attempt to cast you down from your excellency (Jam 1:14-15).
2 Sam. 11:6-27 What it led to. -- One sin never abides alone. If it be immediately confessed, it need lead to no
more; but sin hardens the heart, and makes repentance difficult. Perhaps Uriah's suspicions were aroused by his
sudden recall and the king's manner. To send food from the royal table is one of the greatest compliments that
an eastern king can pay (2 Sam 11:8). But Uriah did not fall into the trap, or go to his house; and his self-restraint
(2 Sam 11:9) made David's self-indulgence appear the more guilty. In the warm spring weather the porters and guards
would sleep in the long corridors of the palace. Uriah's drunkenness (2 Sam 11:13) was more David's sin than his
own. "Sober David is worse than drunken Uriah" (Bishop Hall). 2 Sam 11:14-27, There can be no excuse
for such conduct. That the victim should carry the instructions for his own death; that other lives should be sacrificed
as well as Uriah's; that Joab should be admitted into the plot; that the marriage should be so hurriedly consummated
-- all this was as bad as possible.
When we have sinned, we are more eager to conceal it before men than confess it before God. So soon as the sin
was committed, David sought to obliterate its traces from the eyes of men; but PSam 32:1-11 tells us that he "kept
silence" towards God for long -- probably about twelve months. Is it not remarkable that the Bible should
tell this story of one of its chief saints, the "man after God's heart?" It is related for our warning;
as well as to show how inexorably just He is, as well as merciful (1Co 10:11-12).
2 SAMUEL 12
CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS
2 Sam 12:1-12 The Divine indictment. -- During the period that followed his sin, David remained unrepentant (PSam
32:3-4). Conscience did not let him alone; but he did not return to God till the Good Shepherd sought His wandering
sheep. But God could not forgive him till he had confessed. "He restoreth." Nathan's parable (2 Sam 12:1-5)
put David off his guard. It supposes the same sin committed by someone else. We are more apt at judging others
than ourselves. Let us sometimes look at ourselves as we should at other people, and judge our own actions by the
standard we should apply to them. The application (2 Sam 12:7-9) was as bold as the parable was skillful. God often
brings some incident of fiction or of real life before us, concerning which we have no difficulty in forming a
judgment; and, when we have given the verdict, the Spirit turns our sword to divide between our soul and spirit.
2 Sam 12:8, The mercies of God to David had been so conspicuous that his sin was more aggravated. 2 Sam 12:10-12,
Chastisement foretold. We are chastened that we may not be condemned with the world. The natural results of sin
will follow inevitably, though God will transform them into blessing.
2 Sam 12:13-14 The penitent's confession. -- This was brief, but truly sincere. It is amplified in Psalm 51. He
came to himself, and instantly he was forgiven and restored. There was no interval between the broken sob and the
Divine response. "Many," says Augustine, "are disposed to fall like David; but not, like David,
to rise again. The fall of David has been recorded, that those who have not fallen may be kept from falling, and
that those who have fallen may rise again:'
2 Sam 12:15-23 The beginning of chastisement. -- The death of the child had been foretold (2 Sam 12:14); but with
fasting and tears, David besought the Lord. Those who bend over dying children can understand something of David's
anguish. Yet such may be comforted by the certainty that the Good Shepherd has gathered the lambs to His arms,
and that parents shall go to them -- i.e., they will recognize and be recognized. 2 Sam 12:25, The name Jedidiah
(beloved of the Lord) given to this child indicates that David recognized his birth as an assurance that God had
forgiven him. It is remarkable that Bathsheba should be chosen for the mother of Israel's greatest monarch, and
a type of Christ. But such is the completeness of God's forgiveness.
2 Sam 12:28-31 The capture of Rabbah. -- The siege had taken two years. It was the city of waters, as the Jabbok
flowed around the lower town. 2 Sam 12:31, David set the captives to work at saws, and axes, and in the brick kiln.
An example of enforced labor. (See R.V., marg.). Confession is the basis of victory.
2 SAMUEL 13
SIN AND SORROW
"Whatsoever a man soweth that shall he also reap:' David had sinned against the family, and through his own
family troubles he suffered to the end of his life. God may forgive; but the natural results of sin follow, though
He may transform them into fires for our purification.
2 Sam 13:1-14 Amnon's sin. -- The evil passion would probably have subsided had it not been for Jonadab's advice.
He did not deserve to be called "friend" Such friends have ruined many young men. By laying stress on
the word sister, Ammon disarmed David's suspicions. The appetite of a sick man needed gratifying; and the cakes
were probably a kind of fancy bread which the eastern women take pride in making.
Awful as these chapters of the Bible are, they are necessary. It would be no mirror held to man's heart if it omitted
records like this. To the child, they mean nothing; but they warn the simple. Better learn of our perils by such
terrible examples than by drifting into them.
2 Sam 13:15-22 Tamar. -- She was expelled from Amnon's house, as though she had been the aggressor. Unholy love
often turns to violent hate. Shame, remorse, gluttony, fear, all combined to make Amnon treat her with this sudden
revulsion of feeling. This is the invariable experience of the sinner. When he has his desire, he loathes himself
and it. 2 Sam 13:19, Tamar (the palm, tall and slender) was clothed in embroidered garments, only worn by those
of highest rank. It is probable that she had been driven out without her vail, and therefore sought to hide her
face with her hands. Absalom was Tamar's own brother. They had the same mother, Maacah, daughter of the king of
Geshur.
2 Sam. 13:23-39 Absalom. -- He brooded over his revenge for two years, then struck the fatal blow. It was an awful
tragedy. If David had dared to punish Amnon, it might have been averted. But David's own hands were not clean.
It is an awful thing for a saint of God to fall into sin; here was Tamar ruined; the firstborn murdered; and Absalom
branded as a murderer and banished.
2 SAMUEL 14
THE WOMAN OF TEKOAH
2 Sam. 14:1-20 The woman of Tekoah. -- Joab was shrewed enough to see that the king longed for Absalom, and had
probably ends of his own to serve by the prodigal's return; and endeavored to bring David to consent by the parable
put into the lips of this woman. Tekoah was a village about twelve miles south of Jerusalem. "She posed as
a mourner, and said by way of parable that which in plain terms would have sounded too harshly; while she lamentably
stated the loss and danger of her son, she showed David his own; and while she moved his compassion, she won him
to pity on himself, and a favorable sentence on Absalom" (Bishop Hall). 2 Sam 14:13-14, She ran a parallel
between God's treatment of the banished, and man's; and urged David to devise means for the return of his banished
son. But she made a profound mistake. God's means involve the vindication of His holy law, and the confession of
sin. But in the case of Absalom there was neither the one nor the other. He came back merely to gratify David's
weak indulgent love, and this led to the evils that followed. Some seem to think that God can welcome His Absaloms
back, just because He wills to do so. If He did, there would be revolt right through the universe.
2 Sam 14:21-24 Absalom's return. -- This refusal to see Absalom was unwise. David faltered in his policy. Evidently
he was conscious of acting unwisely and unjustly; and this prevented decisiveness, which, in such cases, is always
the best policy.
2 Sam 14:25-33 Joab's barley field. -- Beauty of body is often a snare, and hides a pit of corruption within. Josephus
says Absalom cut his luxuriant hair once every eight days. The weight of the yearly cutting, by the king's shekel,
would be about three pounds. It was galling to Absalom's pride to be shut out of the king's court, and avoided
by men like Joab. Too often we are content to live without seeing the King's face. We should be more concerned
about this. Sometimes God has to set our barley fields on fire, as it were, to bring us to Himself.
2 SAMUEL 15
ABSALOM'S REBELLION
2 Sam 15:1-12 Absalom's treachery. -- He had just received his father's kiss of reconciliation (2 Sam 14:33). And
this is the first use he makes of favor so justly forfeited, and now restored. By slandering his father, and by
insinuating speeches, he ingratiated himself with the people. When ambition prompts us, we can be courteous and
pleasant. See how self may seem to expel self; when in reality it is but entering deeper into our heart. In 2 Sam
15:7, read four for forty (see R.V. marg.).
Under the mask of religion, Absalom still further matured his plans. Hebron was his native place (2 Sam 3:2), and
a city of the priests (Jos 21:11), in addition to its sacred historic associations. Ahithophel was David's counsellor
(2 Sam 15:12), but followed Absalom in his rebellion. This defection was probably due to the fact that Ahithophel
was grandfather to Bathsheba. This may also explain Ahithophel's hatred to David, expressed in 2 Sam 18:2.
2 Sam. 15:13-29 David's flight. -- Was it that his courage forsook him; or that he could not bear to take arms
against his son; or that he would bow beneath the hand of God? Whatever the cause, David's character never appears
to better advantage than under this trial. The pruning was sharp, but it led to greater fruitfulness. PSam 3:1-8,
PSam 4:1-8, PSam 26:1-12, PSam 28:1-9 and probably PSam 62:1-12 belong to this period. 2 Sam 15:15, This is the
attitude we should maintain towards our King. 2 Sam 15:19, Ittai seems to have been David's associate since his
sojourn in Gath. His words are very noble. They remind us of Joh 12:26; 1Th 5:10; and Phi 1:20. It is thus that
loyal hearts should address Christ. 2 Sam 15:25, David did not believe, as the men of Israel in the days of Samuel,
that the ark was a fetish which carried with it the assurance of victory and the presence of God. Apart from ark
or tabernacle he could seek and find God. In dark and sad clays we cannot do better than appropriate these noble
words, "Behold, here am I; let Him do to me as seemeth good unto Him"
2 Sam 15:30-37 Days of testing. -- Trouble shows us the real value of those who have professed the utmost attachment.
2 Sam 15:30, We are reminded of another procession, led this way by David's Son (Matt. 26). The covered head and
bared foot were signs of intense grief. How David's sins must have come back on him during that ascent! Yet God
was in his thoughts. There was the exclamatory prayer and worship (2 Sam 15:31-32). Faith in God is not inconsistent
with making wise preparations for our defense. We have no right to call for the supernatural till we have done
our part.
2 SAMUEL 16
SHIMEI'S CURSE
2 Sam 16:1-4 Ziba's deception. -- It was a crafty plot. There may have been a shadow of truth in it. But we should
put Ziba's statement beside 2 Sam 19:24. In any case David was rash and premature in answering so hastily (2 Sam
16:4). Let us always hear both sides before we act or speak. How different is man to God! He will never be unmindful
of His covenant, and though we prove ourselves unworthy, He will not alter the word that has gone forth from His
lips.
2 Sam 16:5-14 Shimei's curse. -- As a Benjamite, Shimei had never been really true to David, and now his real character
appeared. Separated from David and his party by a deep ravine, he went along the hill opposite, casting stones
and cursing. This, in the hearing of all his followers, must have been hard for David to bear. David was guiltless
of the blood of Saul; but his heart accused him of other sins, and he was still. When men speak against us, let
us look beyond them to the permission of God (2 Sam 16:10). Let us not avenge ourselves, but rather give place
unto wrath. Vengeance is God's prerogative. He will repay. 2 Sam 16:14, After temptation, and in the midst of sorrow,
God provides refreshment. No difficulty without its arbor of ease! No wound without its palliative! No desert without
its water-spring.
2 Sam 16:15-23 Absalom in Jerusalem. -- Hushai's apparent adhesion to Absalom gave him high hope. Scripture narrates,
without approving, Hushai's conduct. Deception is not justified by the fact of its end being a righteous one Ahithophel's
atrocious counsel pandered to the passions of Absalom, and destroyed all hope of reconciliation between father
and son. How accurately was Nathan's prophecy fulfilled (2 Sam 12:11-12). By wisdom can no man prevail. God takes
the wise in their own craftiness. Beware of that counsel which falls in with the prompting of passion. He who counsels
you to do what is morally wrong can never safely guide in matters of prudence.
2 SAMUEL 17
A TYPE OF JUDAS
In this chapter there are many evidences that God upholds David, even while He visits him with chastisement, according
to Nathan's prediction.
2 Sam 17:1-14 The defeat of Ahithophel's counsel -- No doubt Ahithophel's counsel was the wiser; but Absalom and
his followers were blinded with passion, and were unable to discriminate, and so fell easily into the net laid
by Hushai. The delay was of the utmost value to David. The descending on David as dew is very graphic -- so silent,
and rapid, and irresistible. The allusion to ropes is probably metaphorical. 2 Sam 17:14, Absalom's decision was
Divinely overruled, and was in answer to David's prayer. The Hebrew was accustomed to say that God did what we
should say God permitted to be done (Pro 21:30; 1Co 1:19-20).
2 Sam 17:15-22 Tidings to David. -- Hushai was even now afraid that Ahithophel might gain his way. Hence the message
to David to lose no time in placing the river between himself and his son. 2 Sam 17:17, En-rogel was outside Jerusalem,
where the valleys of Hinnom and Jehoshaphat join; and tidings were brought to them by a woman. They were, however,
recognized by a lad, and would never have reached David but for a deception practiced on Absalom's servants at
Bahurim, similar to that which Rahab adopted at Jericho (Josh. 2). God's purpose would doubtless have been fulfilled
without this deception, which, in the sacred narrative, is not justified.
When we cease to trust God, we resort to trickery. Messages are constantly coming to us to warn us or indicate
our path of duty -- voices from the unseen; but we forbear to take heed. Unlike David, we make no response, and
are overtaken by disaster. If only Peter had heeded his Master's sad prognostications!
2 Sam 17:23 Ahithophel's death. -- As he had foreshadowed Judas in his treachery (PSam 41:9), so did he in his
doom (Mat 27:5). He was prompted to it, not only by the mortification to his pride, but because he anticipated
the failure of Absalom's rebellion, and feared the certain punishment David would inflict.
2 Sam 17:24-29 David at Mahanaim. -- Amasa was Absalom's cousin (1 Chron 2:13-47). God raised up friends to minister
to his servant. But nothing could compensate him for the loss of the Lord's house. The thirst of the stag in the
glades of Bashan's forest was the proper emblem of his desire for the house of God. But amid all was the certainty
that days of praise were coming, in which he should go again to the altar of God, his exceeding joy.
2 SAMUEL 18
ABSALOM'S DEATH
2 Sam 18:1-8 The battle. -- The men of Gilead rallied around David's standard. Josephus says that he was soon at
the head of four thousand soldiers. They loved their king too well to permit him to risk his life. "Worth
ten thousand of us" (2 Sam 18:3). Thus we may address the Lord Jesus. Because of His infinite worth we are
sure of our acceptance. 2 Sam 18:5, In David's tender thought of his prodigal and rebellious son, we may clearly
see God's pitiful love towards us when we go astray. We may have been thoughtless and rebellious; defied His authority,
and refused to give Him His rightful place and honor; and yet He gives charge concerning us.
2 Sam 18:9-18 The death of Absalom. -- The tree was probably a terebinth (2 Sam 18:9, R.V. marg.), for which Bashan
is famous. Note that Absalom's head, rather than his hair, was caught in the fork of the branches. 11, The girdle
would be the badge of authority, the mark of an officer. Absalom met a deserved fate (Deu 21:18, Deu 21:21)
2 Sam 18:19-33 David's lament. -- David was more of a father than a king. There were many reasons for joy -- his
own life was delivered, his kingdom was restored. But nothing can stay his grief that his son was dead, and in
such a manner, and on account of his own sin. Those to whom public interests are committed must often subordinate
themselves to their charge.
2 SAMUEL 19
DAVID'S TRIUMPHANT RETURN
2 Sam 19:1-8 Joab's reproof. -- The tidings of the king's grief spread through the troops, and instead of being
welcomed home, they slunk ashamed and silent into the city. Joab's sharp reproof was needed. David had every reason
to be thankful for his faithfulness, though marred in the tone in which he spoke. Perhaps the father of the prodigal
son filled the empty chambers of his home with words like these!
2 Sam 19:9-15 The welcome back. -- Roused from the stupor of his grief, David began to act with his usual energy
and tact. There were three parties, David's, Absalom's, and that of those who were indifferent. The king did right
to await the nation's recall. This was given by Israel, but his own tribe of Judah did not speak. He made, therefore,
a direct appeal to the men of Judah, which overcame the last symptoms of reluctance, and won Amasa to his side
by a promise of the command of the army instead of Joab.
2 Sam 19:16-23 Shimei. -- He had cursed David, but now took an altogether different view of matters. There is no
reason to think that his repentance was sincere; but to appear repentant was his only hope.
2 Sam 19:19-20, These words will befit our lips. The best fitness for coming to Christ is the knowledge of sin;
the best time is first of all this day.
2 Sam 19:24-30 Mephibosheth. -- The Oriental is specially careful of his beard, and the neglect in this case indicated
deep sorrow. David received his expressions of homage rather coldly, and decreed the division of the estate. It
may be that he suspected the genuineness of the expressions employed by the son of his old friend.
2 Sam 19:31-40 Barzillai. -- True to David in his affliction, this aged man now received his reward, even to a
share in the king's palace. Even more glorious are the rewards offered by Jesus to those who suffer with him (Rom
8:17). For Chimham's inheritance, see Jer 41:17.
2 Sam 19:41-43 The mutterings of the storm. -- The ten tribes were probably offended at David's having sent a special
summons to his own tribe, and having awaited their reply. He appears to have not delayed for the escort of the
ten tribes, but to have returned with that of Judah alone. This appearance of partiality greatly excited them.
2 SAMUEL 20
SHEBA'S REBELLION
2 Sam 20:1-2 Sheba's rebellion. -- Like Shimei, Sheba belonged to the tribe of Benjamin. The disaffection of Israel
gave him his opportunity. No sooner was one rebellion quelled, and David restored to the kingdom, than another
demanded his care. Thus literally was Nathan's prophecy fulfilled of the sword not departing from his house. A
backslider, even when restored, tastes the bitter fruit of departure from God.
2 Sam 20:4-12 Amasa's death. -- The appointment of Amasa as captain, and -- when his delay threatened to prove
fatal --of Abishai, was a terrible affront to the haughty spirit of Joab. At Gibeon, Amasa assumed his new position;
and was saluted in the most friendly way by Joab. Josephus says that the old general allowed his sword to fall
out on purpose, that he might have an excuse for approaching Amasa, with a naked sword in his hand.
2 Sam 20:13-22 The pursuit and death of Sheba. -- Abelbeth-maachah was situated in the extreme north of Palestine,
above Lake Merom. Joab prepared to besiege it. The intervention of this wise woman, who, probably like Deborah,
was its judge and governor, prevented the siege, and saved the city from destruction. Bishop Hall says: "Spiritually,
the case is ours; every man's breast is as a city enclosed; every sin is a traitor that lurks within the walls.
God calls to us for our sin. If we love the head of our traitor above the life of our soul, we shall justly perish
in his vengeance. We cannot be more willing to part with our sin than our merciful God is to withdraw His judgments:'
Probably it would be better to translate 2 Sam 20:18-19, freely, thus: "When the people saw thee lay siege
to Abel, they said, Surely he will ask if we will have peace; for the law prescribes that he should offer peace
to strangers, and much more to Israelite cities: and if he do this, we shall soon bring matters to an amicable
termination, for we are a peaceable people."
2 SAMUEL 21
THREE YEARS' FAMINE
2 Sam 21:1-9 The Famine. -- The time when this famine occurred cannot be fixed with certainty. "In all probability
it was before Absalom's rebellion, in the account of which we may trace one, if not two allusions, to the execution
of Saul's sons" (2 Sam 16:7-8; 2 Sam 19:28) (Cambridge Bible). 2 Sam 21:1, Three years passed before David
took the famine seriously to heart, or realized that it might have a special cause. If God is contending with you,
do not prolong your grief by delaying to inquire the cause (Job 10:2). The reason for the famine was a strange
one. The Gibeonites had obtained Joshua's oath by fraud, but God regarded it as binding. Saul's violation of this
oath is only referred to here. But his acts involved the whole nation (2 Sam 21:3-9). The remnant was in the position
of the Goel, and therefore they were bound to ask for satisfaction at the hands of the representatives of the family
of Saul. 2 Sam 21:6, The fact that Saul was God's chosen monarch was cited as an aggravation of the crime. Merab
(2 Sam 21:8) should be read for Michal (1Sam 18:19).
2 Sam 21:10-14 The waiting of Rizpah. -- It was a heathen practice to expose to ridicule the malefactor's body;
but the Gibeonites were not bound by the laws of Israel. Rizpah kept watch day and night, on a shadeless rock,
from early spring until late into the autumn, and the falling rain proved that the famine was ended. She bore patiently
the fierce heat of the sun in the Syrian summer, in the devotion of her love, which became contagious, and even
stirred David to treat with similar honor the remains of Saul and Jonathan. Fire spreads itself without impoverishment,
and love ignites love. Go on doing what is right at all costs; it will stir others to deeds of heroic zeal!
2 Sam 21:15-22 The wars with the Philistines. -- This paragraph is somewhat out of chronological order. The incident
is repeated in 1Ch 20:4-8, as immediately following the capture of Rabbah. 2 Sam 21:17, A beautiful figure. Monstrous
sin stalked the earth in the persons of these giants. Their presence towards the close of David's life -- the beginning
of which was rendered memorable by the death of Goliath -- reminds us that the temptations we had thought at an
end will again molest us.
2 SAMUEL 22
A PSALM OF THANKSGIVING
This Psalm of Thanksgiving is repeated with but slight variations in Psa 8:1-9. It was probably written, as the
Cambridge Bible suggests, in the period of peace, described in 2 Sam 22:7 :1. In Heb 2:13 and Rom 15:9, the apostle
applies it to the Lord Jesus.
2 Sam 22:2-4 David's resolution to bless God. -- "My" occurs nine times in two verses. It is thus that
the heart sings to God in the day when it is delivered. And in R.V. "even mine" accentuates the glad
sense of possession. How many-sided Christ is! The soul piles one expression on another, but they are all inadequate.
2 Sam. 22:5-20 God's delivering grace. -- The Psalm begins with a description of the depths into which David had
sunk. 2 Sam 22:5-6, Death not only threatened, but compassed him. 2 Sam 22:7, Yet he could cry. There is no distress
so deep, no flood so high, but our cry may rise into the ear of God. 2 Sam 22:8-16, The deliverance is sublimely
described. Do not be afraid of the storm! -- the dark clouds are His chariot; the thick darkness is the curtain
of His pavilion; the thunder is His voice; the stormy wind His breath. He will be your stay; He will deliver; He
will reward according to the righteousness of Him in whom you stand.
2 Sam 22:21-29 The principles of God's government. -- This was not a boast of self-righteousness before God; but
of integrity in his dealings with those who persecuted him. The Psalm was evidently written before his great fall.
Those who suffer wrongfully may commit their cause to Him who judgeth righteously (1Pe 2:19-23).
2 Sam. 22:30-46 David's personal experience. -- God is extolled for His faithfulness, His exaltation of David,
the destruction of His foes, and the establishment of His kingdom. Be perfect -- that is, whole-hearted -- towards
God, and He will be whole-hearted in His love and care. His way is perfect, and He will guide your way in perfectness
(2 Sam 22:31-33 R.V. marg.). What cannot that man do who is right with God, not only in the work of Jesus, but
in his whole-hearted consecration! He gives power to run and leap. He is a lamp. He is a shield and a rock. And
all this so gently that we are insensibly led to positions of influence and greatness, to be used for Him. And
from the height we shall magnify His deliverances.
2 Sam 22:47-51 A prophecy of the promised seed. -- The "anointed" and the "seed for evermore"
anticipate a greater than David. Of Him also it shall be true that God will bring Him forth from the hate and opposition
of His enemies, and lift Him on high, and give Him the heathen for His inheritance.
2 SAMUEL 23
DAVID'S MIGHTY MEN
2 Sam 23:1-7 David's last words. -- These words appropriately follow the Psalm of the previous chapter. Their theme
is suggested by the last verse of that thanksgiving song. 2 Sam 23:1, His threefold designation. 2 Sam 23:2, His
consciousness of inspiration. 2 Sam 23:3, The Rock of Israel had promised him a ruler who should rule men in the
fear of God (R.V. marg.). The foundation of the reign of the Messiah, David's son, should be equity and righteousness.
4, "David had been familiar with the yearly transformation of the dry and dusty downs of Bethlehem into a
lovely garden of brilliant flowers; an apt emblem of the gracious influence of the perfect rule of an ideal king
upon a hard and desert world" (Cambridge Bible). 2 Sam 23:5, A parenthetical clause in which David explains
that, so far as his own household is concerned, the dawn had been overcast, and the grass withered. But although
his family history had been spotted and beclouded, yet it was a subject of deepest faith and joy to him that God
would ever be mindful of the covenant into which He had entered. 2 Sam 23:6, As thorns are uprooted from a field,
so would wicked men be from the kingdom of the Messiah. 2 Sam 23:7, Evidently then the scepter of Christ will be
one of judgment as well as mercy. He will rule the nations with a rod of iron.
2 Sam. 23:8-39 David's mighty men. -- The first of these verses may be read thus: "He who sits in the seat
of the Tachmonite, who was chief among the captains, was Adino" Eight hundred (2 Sam 23:8) is three hundred
in 1Ch 11:11. The great victories achieved by Eleazar and Shammah are ascribed to the Lord (2 Sam 23:10-12). Even
the mighty men were powerless without Him. 2 Sam 23:17, The same principle should lead us to abstain from intoxicating
drink, which is mingled with the blood of the myriads it yearly ruins. Abishai and Benaiah were probably among
these three. The name of the third is unknown.
2 SAMUEL 24
NUMBERING THE PEOPLE
2 Sam 24:1-9 The numbering of the people. -- God cannot tempt any man; but He is often described as doing what
He permits to be done. Satan was the counsellor here (1Ch 21:1). 2 Sam 24:3, Joab and others seem to have done
their utmost to dissuade David, but were defeated by his strong will. So man often rushes to his destruction in
spite of warning voices, which God has raised up to stay him. 2 Sam 24:5, The census was taken first in the eastern
part of the kingdom. The river of Gad is rendered "valley" in margin. 2 Sam 24:6, Their progress was
northward to Gilead, thence to Zidon, then along the western coast southwards. 2 Sam 24:9, The total differs from
1Ch 21:5 by three hundred thousand. But the bands of soldiers are not included here, whereas they are included
there (1Ch 21:5). Pride loves to enumerate our resources, and boast of them. This is wrong and foolish. We have
nothing that we have not received; and it is ours only in the sense of stewardship, to be employed for our Lord.
2 Sam 24:10-17 Punishment. -- God forgives our sins when we confess them; but there is chastisement to be borne.
2 Sam 24:14, It was a great strait indeed, but David chose wisely. 2 Sam 24:15, What an agony must have filled
the mind of David during those three days! How deeply humbled must he have been as he saw how easily the numbers
of his people, which had caused him so much vain-glory, could melt away before the blight of the pestilence! 2
Sam 24:16, God will not suffer us to be tempted beyond what we are able; He will bid the angels sheathe their swords,
and say, "It is enough" At the threshing-floor the Lord repents; i.e., He alters His procedure when we
alter our behavior! He will cease threshing. 2 Sam 24:17, A beautiful touch of self-renunciation in David, who
was prepared to be sacrificed, if his people might be spared. (Compare Rom 9:1, Rom 9:2).
2 Sam 24:18-25 The temple site. -- Out of this awful pestilence there came the temple-site, in the threshing-floor
of Araunah, or Ornan, one of the ancient inhabitants of the land (1Ch 26:18; 2Ch 3:1). This altar was one of expiation.
Jerusalem was spared because the victims suffered in the sacrificial flames. 2 Sam 24:24, The words of this Jebusite
may well shame some of our Christian giving. The sum here mentioned, about five pounds, was for floor, oxen, etc.,
the large sum (1Ch 21:25) for the whole hill. Thus a Gentile furnished the temple-site, and the materials were
largely taken from Gentile nations -- all emblematical of the part that Gentiles were to play in the erection of
that spiritual temple, the Church.