College Press Bible Study Textbook Series
2 Samuel 15 - Introduction
PART FOUR
ABSALOM'S REVOLT
2 Samuel 15:1 to 2 Samuel 19:43
A DIGEST OF CHAPTER 15
Absalom's conspiracy. Absalom stole the hearts of the people by sitting in the gate in the capital city and indicating that he was sympathetic to their causes. When he had gained sufficient support, he went to Hebron, where his father had first ruled. His trip to Hebron was under the pretense of paying a vow, but in reality he went there to assemble his forces and begin his rebellion.
David's flight. David did not choose to stay in Jerusalem and defend the capital city. It is doubtful that he wanted to meet his son on the field of battle. He also would be reluctant to see street fighting in the city of the great king. His decision was to flee across the Jordan into Gilead.
David's counterplot. David sent some of his faithful friends back into Jerusalem to act as spies. He especially instructed Hushai to defeat the counsel of Ahithophel.
LESSONS FOR LEARNING
1.
The fickleness of multitudes. Men and women who had been soundly in support of the government of David suddenly turned to support the cause of his rebellious son. Some of them went along with the revolt without really knowing what was happening. Absalom was a demagogue, and many of the people were deceived into following him. Those who want to please God must be careful lest they follow along with the crowd.
2.
Let him do to me as seemeth good (2 Samuel 15:26). David was willing to let God discipline him as it seemed good to Him, He was resting his case in the hands of the righteous judge. He knew that he had sinned against God, and he was willing to pay whatever penalty should be exacted. This surrender of life is commendable.
CHAPTER 15 IN REVIEW
1.
How many men ran before Absalom?
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2.
To what city did Absalom go to start his revolt?
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3.
What instrument did Absalom use to signal the beginning of his revolt?
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4.
How many men went with Absalom?
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5.
What councilor of David joined Absalom?
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6.
From what town was he?
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7.
How many Philistine men went with David?
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8.
What was the name of the man from Gath?
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9.
What two priests took care of the Ark?
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10.
What was the name of the councilor whom David left in Jerusalem?
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