Read verses 8-32: David had a trusted commander of his army called Joab (his nephew). Saul’s right hand man had been Abner, and he continued to oppose David for a long time after Saul had died. He refused to accept David’s kingship and instead he made Saul’s one remaining son, Ishbosheth, king over Israel. Ishbosheth was a tool in Abner’s hands. He may have been crowned by Abner but he was not God’s anointed. It was to be 7 years (v.11) before Abner’s opposition failed and David was eventually made king over a united Israel. The account of Abner’s challenge is in verses 12-30. Q. How is David’s attitude towards Saul an example for us in relation to our leaders a) in the church and b) in the country?
2 Samuel chapter 3 Read verses 1-5 David settled in Hebron and had children – but all that time there was civil war between the house of Saul (led by Abner) and the house of David (led by Joab). Read verses 6-21 6-11: Abner was the mainstay behind Ishbosheth’s kingship (Ishbosheth was weak in health and character) but he was unappreciated; his righteous indignation would suggest he had not acted inappropriately. Notably, Abner understood the Lord’s promise that David would ultimately become king over all Israel (v.9&10). “The throne of David” is first mentioned in this verse. Q. Why does that phrase have great significance? Is it the same type of kingship as Saul had, or is there a difference? 12-20: Abner wished to make a treaty with David and conferred with various elders in Israel (v.17) so that he could meet David with an offer. David said he would be prepared to meet Abner if he brought Michal (his first wife) with him. Michal was Saul’s daughter – by claiming her he was claiming Saul’s kingdom too. After conferring with all the parties Abner went to Hebron and told David that all Israel was behind him and were ready to make an agreement (v.21). This was a shrewd move on his part because it was probable that he expected to be commander over all the armies of Israel. BUT ... Read verses 22-30 David’s general, Joab (who was also his nephew), comes back, realizes what has happened and accuses Abner of deception. (He hated Abner because his brother had died at Abner’s hands (ch.2v22&23). Not only did Joab hate Abner, but his position as commander of David’s army was now threatened. Without David’s knowledge, and putting his own interests first, Joab killed Abner (v.27). David declared he had no part in the shedding of Abner’s blood. David’s respect for Saul as the Lord’s anointed encompassed all his household. His attititude would have won the respect of all Israel.
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