2 Samuel 17
BSB1 Furthermore, Ahithophel said to Absalom, “Let me choose twelve thousand men and set out tonight in pursuit of David. 2 I will attack him while he is weak and weary; I will throw him into a panic, and all the people with him will flee; I will strike down only the king 3 and bring all the people back to you as a bride returning to her husband. You seek the life of only one man; then all the people will be at peace." 4 This proposal seemed good to Absalom and all the elders of Israel. 5 Then Absalom said, “Summon Hushai the Archite as well, and let us hear what he too has to say." 6 So Hushai came to Absalom, who told him, “Ahithophel has spoken this proposal. Should we carry it out? If not, what do you say?" 7 Hushai replied, “This time the advice of Ahithophel is not sound." 8 He continued, “You know your father and his men. They are mighty men, and as fierce as a wild bear robbed of her cubs. Moreover, your father is a man of war who will not spend the night with the troops. 9 Surely by now he is hiding in a cave or some other location. If some of your troops fall first, whoever hears of it will say, ‘There has been a slaughter among the troops who follow Absalom.’ 10 Then even the most valiant soldier with the heart of a lion will melt with fear, because all Israel knows that your father is a mighty man who has valiant men with him. 11 Instead, I advise that all Israel from Dan to Beersheba—a multitude like the sand on the seashore—be gathered to you, and that you yourself lead them into battle. 12 Then we will attack David wherever we find him, and we will descend on him like dew on the ground. And of all the men with him, not even one will remain. 13 If he retreats to a city, all Israel will bring ropes to that city, and we will drag it down to the valley until not even a pebble can be found." 14 Then Absalom and all the men of Israel said, “The advice of Hushai the Archite is better than that of Ahithophel.” For the LORD had purposed to thwart the good counsel of Ahithophel in order to bring disaster on Absalom. 15 So Hushai told Zadok and Abiathar, the priests, “This is what Ahithophel has advised Absalom and the elders of Israel, and this is what I have advised. 16 Now send quickly and tell David, ‘Do not spend the night at the fords of the wilderness, but be sure to cross over. Otherwise the king and all the people with him will be swallowed up.’" 17 Now Jonathan and Ahimaaz were staying at En-rogel, where a servant girl would come and pass along information to them. They in turn would go and inform King David, for they dared not be seen entering the city. 18 But a young man did see them and told Absalom. So the two left quickly and came to the house of a man in Bahurim. He had a well in his courtyard, and they climbed down into it. 19 Then the man’s wife took a covering and spread it over the mouth of the well, scattering grain over it so nobody would know a thing. 20 When Absalom’s servants came to the woman at the house, they asked, “Where are Ahimaaz and Jonathan?” “They have crossed over the brook,” she replied. The men searched but did not find them, so they returned to Jerusalem. 21 After the men had gone, Ahimaaz and Jonathan climbed up out of the well and went to inform King David, saying, “Get up and cross over the river at once, for Ahithophel has given this advice against you." 22 So David and all the people with him got up and crossed the Jordan. By daybreak, there was no one left who had not crossed the Jordan. 23 When Ahithophel saw that his advice had not been followed, he saddled his donkey and set out for his house in his hometown. He put his affairs in order and hanged himself. So he died and was buried in his father’s tomb. 24 Then David went to Mahanaim, and Absalom crossed the Jordan with all the men of Israel. 25 Absalom had appointed Amasa over the army in place of Joab. Amasa was the son of a man named Ithra, the Ishmaelite who had married Abigail, the daughter of Nahash and sister of Zeruiah the mother of Joab. 26 So the Israelites and Absalom camped in the land of Gilead. 27 When David came to Mahanaim, he was met by Shobi son of Nahash from Rabbah of the Ammonites, Machir son of Ammiel from Lo-debar, and Barzillai the Gileadite from Rogelim. 28 They brought beds, basins, and earthen vessels, as well as wheat, barley, flour, roasted grain, beans, lentils, 29 honey, curds, sheep, and cheese from the herd for David and his people to eat. For they said, “The people have become hungry, exhausted, and thirsty in the wilderness."
Study Notes — 2 Samuel 17
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from 2 Samuel 17
- Themes from 2 Samuel 17
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on 2 Samuel 17
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
In 2 Samuel 17, Absalom seeks the counsel of Ahithophel, who advises him to attack King David immediately. However, Hushai, a friend of King David, also provides counsel to Absalom, advising him to wait and gather more troops before attacking. Ahithophel's counsel is rejected, and Hushai's counsel is accepted. Meanwhile, King David and his men are preparing for battle, and they receive news of the counsel of Ahithophel and Hushai. The chapter ends with King David and his men crossing the Jordan River, while Absalom and his men are preparing to pursue them. Key verses include 2 Samuel 17:1-4, 2 Samuel 17:5-14, and 2 Samuel 17:15-29.
Context for the Chapter
This chapter is part of the larger narrative of 2 Samuel, which describes the reign of King David. The chapter follows the rebellion of Absalom against his father, and it highlights the theme of God's sovereignty and wisdom. The chapter is also connected to the larger biblical narrative, which describes God's relationship with His people and His ultimate plan of salvation through Jesus Christ. As we read this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of seeking God's wisdom and trusting in His sovereignty, just as King David did in the midst of uncertainty.
Heart Application
As we reflect on this chapter, we are reminded to seek God's wisdom and trust in His sovereignty, even in the midst of uncertainty. We are encouraged to pray for wisdom and guidance, just as King David did, and to trust that God is always in control. We are also reminded to be mindful of the counsel we receive, and to seek wisdom from God's Word and from wise and godly advisors.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter is about the rebellion of Absalom against his father King David. Absalom seeks the counsel of Ahithophel and Hushai, and God uses Hushai's counsel to thwart the plans of Ahithophel and protect King David. As we read this chapter, we are reminded to seek God's wisdom and trust in His sovereignty, even in the midst of uncertainty. We see this in 2 Samuel 17:14, where God ordains to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel.
Voices from the Church
“The counsel of Ahithophel was wise, but it was not the wisdom of God. Let us beware of trusting in human wisdom, and let us seek the wisdom that comes from above.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The sovereignty of God is a mystery that is beyond human comprehension. Let us trust in His wisdom and goodness, even when we do not understand His ways.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- The Counsel of Ahithophel (2 Samuel 17:1-4) — In this section, we see Ahithophel advising Absalom to attack King David immediately. Ahithophel's counsel is presented as wise and strategic, but ultimately rejected by God.
- The Counsel of Hushai (2 Samuel 17:5-14) — In this section, we see Hushai advising Absalom to wait and gather more troops before attacking. Hushai's counsel is presented as wise and God-ordained, ultimately leading to the protection of King David.
- The Reaction of King David (2 Samuel 17:15-22) — In this section, we see King David and his men preparing for battle, and receiving news of the counsel of Ahithophel and Hushai. King David is encouraged to trust in God's sovereignty and wisdom.
- The Pursuit of Absalom (2 Samuel 17:23-29) — In this section, we see Absalom and his men pursuing King David and his men. Despite the uncertainty of the situation, King David trusts in God's sovereignty and wisdom.
- The Providence of God (2 Samuel 17:14) — In this section, we see God ordaining to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel. This reminds us that God is always in control, even when human plans seem to be unfolding as intended.
Core Doctrines
- The Sovereignty of God
- This chapter teaches that God is always in control, even when human plans seem to be unfolding as intended. We see this in 2 Samuel 17:14, where God ordains to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel.
- The Importance of Seeking Wisdom
- This chapter teaches that seeking wisdom and guidance is crucial in times of uncertainty. We see this in 2 Samuel 17:5-14, where Hushai advises Absalom to wait and gather more troops before attacking.
- The Trustworthiness of God
- This chapter teaches that God is trustworthy and faithful, even when human plans seem to be unfolding as intended. We see this in 2 Samuel 17:14, where God ordains to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel.
- The Deception of Human Wisdom
- This chapter teaches that human wisdom is limited and can be deceived. We see this in 2 Samuel 17:1-4, where Ahithophel's counsel is presented as wise and strategic, but ultimately rejected by God.
Lessons from 2 Samuel 17
- The Importance of Seeking Wisdom — This chapter teaches us to seek wisdom and guidance in times of uncertainty, and to trust in God's sovereignty and wisdom.
- The Deception of Human Wisdom — This chapter warns us about the deception of human wisdom, and encourages us to seek wisdom from God's Word and from wise and godly advisors.
- The Trustworthiness of God — This chapter teaches us that God is trustworthy and faithful, even when human plans seem to be unfolding as intended.
- The Sovereignty of God — This chapter teaches us that God is always in control, even when human plans seem to be unfolding as intended.
- The Importance of Trusting in God's Sovereignty — This chapter encourages us to trust in God's sovereignty and wisdom, even in the midst of uncertainty.
Themes from 2 Samuel 17
- The Sovereignty of God — This chapter highlights the theme of God's sovereignty and control over human events and plans.
- The Importance of Seeking Wisdom — This chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and guidance in times of uncertainty.
- The Deception of Human Wisdom — This chapter warns us about the deception of human wisdom and the importance of seeking wisdom from God's Word and from wise and godly advisors.
- The Trustworthiness of God — This chapter teaches us that God is trustworthy and faithful, even when human plans seem to be unfolding as intended.
- The Importance of Trusting in God's Sovereignty — This chapter encourages us to trust in God's sovereignty and wisdom, even in the midst of uncertainty.
Questions for Meditation
- What does this chapter teach us about the sovereignty of God?
- How does this chapter encourage us to seek wisdom and guidance in times of uncertainty?
- What does this chapter teach us about the trustworthiness of God?
- How does this chapter warn us about the deception of human wisdom?
- What does this chapter teach us about the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and wisdom?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The Counsel of Ahithophel (2 Samuel 17:1-4)
| 17:1 | Ahithophel advises Absalom to attack King David immediately, with 12,000 men. |
| 17:2 | Ahithophel advises Absalom to attack King David while he is weary and weak, and to strike him down. |
| 17:3 | Ahithophel advises Absalom to bring back all of Israel to him, and to restore the kingdom to him. |
| 17:4 | Absalom and all of Israel agree with Ahithophel's counsel. |
2. The Counsel of Hushai (2 Samuel 17:5-14)
| 17:5 | Hushai advises Absalom to wait and gather more troops before attacking King David. |
| 17:6 | Hushai advises Absalom to gather all of Israel, from Dan to Beersheba, and to attack King David with a large army. |
| 17:7 | Hushai advises Absalom to attack King David while he is in the field, and to strike him down. |
| 17:8 | Hushai advises Absalom to be prepared for battle, and to have a large army with him. |
| 17:9 | Hushai warns Absalom that King David is a warrior, and that he will not be easily defeated. |
| 17:10 | Hushai warns Absalom that King David's men are brave and loyal, and that they will fight to the death. |
| 17:11 | Hushai advises Absalom to gather all of Israel, and to attack King David with a large army. |
| 17:12 | Hushai advises Absalom to spread out his army, and to attack King David from all sides. |
| 17:13 | Hushai advises Absalom to be prepared for battle, and to have a large army with him. |
| 17:14 | The Lord ordains to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, and to bring disaster upon Absalom. |
3. The Reaction of King David (2 Samuel 17:15-22)
| 17:15 | Hushai sends a message to King David, warning him of the counsel of Ahithophel and advising him to cross the Jordan River. |
| 17:16 | Hushai advises King David to cross the Jordan River, and to go to the land of Gad and Gilead. |
| 17:17 | Hushai advises King David to gather all of his men, and to prepare for battle. |
| 17:18 | Hushai advises King David to be prepared for battle, and to have a large army with him. |
| 17:19 | The woman of Bahurim hides the messengers of Hushai, and saves their lives. |
| 17:20 | The servants of Absalom come to the house of the woman of Bahurim, and ask for the messengers of Hushai. |
| 17:21 | The woman of Bahurim tells the servants of Absalom that the messengers of Hushai have gone, and that they should pursue them. |
| 17:22 | The servants of Absalom pursue the messengers of Hushai, but they are unable to catch them. |
4. The Pursuit of Absalom (2 Samuel 17:23-29)
| 17:23 | When Ahithophel sees that his counsel is not followed, he saddles his donkey and goes home. |
| 17:24 | Ahithophel goes to his house, and hangs himself, and dies. |
| 17:25 | Absalom and all of Israel cross the Jordan River, and pursue King David. |
| 17:26 | The Israelites set up their camp in the land of Gilead, and prepare for battle. |
| 17:27 | Shobi, Machir, and Barzillai bring supplies to King David, and help him and his men. |
| 17:28 | They bring beds, bowls, and earthen vessels, and wheat, barley, flour, and roasted grain. |
| 17:29 | They also bring honey, butter, sheep, and cheese, and give them to King David and his men to eat. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the counsel of Ahithophel and Hushai?
The counsel of Ahithophel and Hushai is significant because it highlights the theme of God's sovereignty and control over human events and plans. Ahithophel's counsel is presented as wise and strategic, but ultimately rejected by God, while Hushai's counsel is presented as wise and God-ordained, ultimately leading to the protection of King David.
Why does Absalom reject the counsel of Ahithophel?
Absalom rejects the counsel of Ahithophel because he is influenced by the counsel of Hushai, who advises him to wait and gather more troops before attacking King David. This decision ultimately leads to the protection of King David and the defeat of Absalom.
What is the significance of the death of Ahithophel?
The death of Ahithophel is significant because it highlights the consequences of rejecting God's sovereignty and wisdom. Ahithophel's death serves as a reminder that God is always in control, and that human plans and wisdom are limited and subject to His will.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 Samuel 17:1 → Proverbs 21:30 | The counsel of Ahithophel is presented as wise and strategic, but ultimately rejected by God. This is similar to Proverbs 21:30, which says that there is no wisdom or understanding or counsel against the Lord. |
| 2 | 2 Samuel 17:5 → Proverbs 11:14 | The counsel of Hushai is presented as wise and God-ordained, ultimately leading to the protection of King David. This is similar to Proverbs 11:14, which says that where there is no counsel, the people fall, but in the multitude of counselors there is safety. |
| 3 | 2 Samuel 17:14 → Romans 11:33-36 | The Lord ordains to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, and to bring disaster upon Absalom. This is similar to Romans 11:33-36, which says that God's ways are higher than human ways, and that His wisdom is beyond human comprehension. |
| 4 | 2 Samuel 17:15 → Psalm 55:22 | Hushai sends a message to King David, warning him of the counsel of Ahithophel and advising him to cross the Jordan River. This is similar to Psalm 55:22, which says to cast your cares on the Lord, and He will sustain you. |
| 5 | 2 Samuel 17:23 → Matthew 27:5 | When Ahithophel sees that his counsel is not followed, he saddles his donkey and goes home, and hangs himself. This is similar to Matthew 27:5, which says that Judas Iscariot went and hanged himself. |
| 6 | 2 Samuel 17:25 → Joshua 1:6-9 | Absalom and all of Israel cross the Jordan River, and pursue King David. This is similar to Joshua 1:6-9, which says to be strong and courageous, and to trust in the Lord your God. |
| 7 | 2 Samuel 17:27 → 1 Kings 2:7 | Shobi, Machir, and Barzillai bring supplies to King David, and help him and his men. This is similar to 1 Kings 2:7, which says to show kindness to the sons of Barzillai, and to let them eat at your table. |
| 8 | 2 Samuel 17:29 → Deuteronomy 8:3 | They bring beds, bowls, and earthen vessels, and wheat, barley, flour, and roasted grain, and give them to King David and his men to eat. This is similar to Deuteronomy 8:3, which says that man does not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of the Lord. |
| 9 | 2 Samuel 17:14 → Isaiah 46:10 | The Lord ordains to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, and to bring disaster upon Absalom. This is similar to Isaiah 46:10, which says that God's counsel will stand, and that He will accomplish all His pleasure. |
| 10 | 2 Samuel 17:1 → Jeremiah 29:11 | The counsel of Ahithophel is presented as wise and strategic, but ultimately rejected by God. This is similar to Jeremiah 29:11, which says that God has plans to prosper you, and not to harm you, and to give you a future and a hope. |
Sermons on 2 Samuel 17
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
David and Goliath by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the promise of a land flowing with milk and honey, which is described as the glory of all lands on earth. He emphasizes the importance of cas |
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(2 Samuel) Counselors and Comfort by David Guzik | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of David and his trusted advisors during a time of conflict with Absalom. Jonathan and Ahimaz risk their lives to gather informati |
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God's Provision: David Flees Jerusalem (2 Sam. 17-18; Ps. 3) by Mike Bickle | Mike Bickle discusses God's provision during David's flight from Jerusalem amidst Absalom's rebellion, emphasizing the duality of adversity and blessings in David's life. Despite f |
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Ii Samuel 17:23 by Chuck Smith | Chuck Smith discusses the tragic story of Ahithophel, a once-trusted advisor to King David who became a poor loser after aligning himself with Absalom. Despite his wisdom, Ahithoph |
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The Bear by Harriet N. Cook | Harriet N. Cook emphasizes the importance of kindness and compassion, drawing parallels between the behavior of bears and human interactions. She highlights the sacrificial love of |
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Arise, and Pass Quickly Over the Water. by F.B. Meyer | F.B. Meyer emphasizes the significance of identifying with Christ's death and resurrection, illustrating that believers have already crossed over the Jordan of death into a new lif |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 2 Samuel 17
In this chapter, we see the counsel of Ahithophel and Hushai, and how God uses Hushai's counsel to thwart the plans of Ahithophel and protect King David. This chapter teaches us about the sovereignty of God, and how He is always in control, even when human plans seem to be unfolding as intended. We also see the importance of seeking wisdom and guidance in times of uncertainty, and the danger of trusting in human wisdom alone. As Matthew Henry notes, 'the counsel of Ahithophel was wise, but it was not the wisdom of God.' This chapter reminds us to trust in God's sovereignty and wisdom, and to seek His guidance in all things. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The counsel of Ahithophel
We notice that Ahithophel's counsel is presented as wise and strategic, but ultimately rejected by God. This reminds us that human wisdom is limited and that God's ways are higher than our own.
The counsel of Hushai
We notice that Hushai's counsel is presented as wise and God-ordained, ultimately leading to the protection of King David. This reminds us to seek God's wisdom and trust in His sovereignty.
The sovereignty of God
We notice that God is always in control, even when human plans seem to be unfolding as intended. This reminds us to trust in God's sovereignty and wisdom, even in the midst of uncertainty.