2 Samuel 24:4
2 Samuel 24:4 in Multiple Translations
Nevertheless, the king’s word prevailed against Joab and against the commanders of the army. So Joab and the commanders of the army departed from the presence of the king to count the troops of Israel.
Notwithstanding the king’s word prevailed against Joab, and against the captains of the host. And Joab and the captains of the host went out from the presence of the king, to number the people of Israel.
Notwithstanding, the king’s word prevailed against Joab, and against the captains of the host. And Joab and the captains of the host went out from the presence of the king, to number the people of Israel.
But the king's order was stronger than Joab and the captains of the army. And Joab and the captains of the army went out from the king, to take the number of the children of Israel.
But the king was adamant so Joab and the army commanders left the king and went to census the people of Israel.
Notwithstanding the Kings worde preuailed against Ioab and against the captaines of the hoste: therefore Ioab and the captaines of the hoste went out from the presence of the King to nomber the people of Israel.
And the word of the king is severe towards Joab, and against the heads of the force, and Joab goeth out, and the heads of the force, [from] before the king to inspect the people, even Israel;
Notwithstanding, the king’s word prevailed against Joab and against the captains of the army. Joab and the captains of the army went out from the presence of the king to count the people of Israel.
Notwithstanding the king's word prevailed against Joab, and against the captains of the host. And Joab and the captains of the host went out from the presence of the king, to number the people of Israel.
But the king’s words prevailed over the words of Joab, and of the captains of the army: and Joab, and the captains of the soldiers went out from the presence of the king, to number the people of Israel.
But the king commanded Joab and his officers to do it. So they left the king and went out to count the people of Israel.
Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Samuel 24:4
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2 Samuel 24:4 Interlinear (Deep Study)
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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Samuel 24:4
Study Notes — 2 Samuel 24:4
- Context
- Cross References
- 2 Samuel 24:4 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 24:4
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 24:4
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 24:4
- Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 24:4
- Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 24:4
- Sermons on 2 Samuel 24:4
Context — David’s Military Census
4Nevertheless, the king’s word prevailed against Joab and against the commanders of the army. So Joab and the commanders of the army departed from the presence of the king to register the troops of Israel.
5They crossed the Jordan and camped near Aroer, south of the town in the middle of the valley, and proceeded toward Gad and Jazer. 6Then they went to Gilead and the land of Tahtim-hodshi, and on to Dan-jaan and around to Sidon.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Acts 5:29 | But Peter and the other apostles replied, “We must obey God rather than men. |
| 2 | Ecclesiastes 8:4 | For the king’s word is supreme, and who can say to him, “What are you doing?” |
| 3 | 1 Chronicles 21:4 | Nevertheless, the king’s word prevailed against Joab. So Joab departed and traveled throughout Israel, and then he returned to Jerusalem. |
| 4 | Exodus 1:17 | The midwives, however, feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt had instructed; they let the boys live. |
2 Samuel 24:4 Summary
This verse shows that King David's decision to count his troops was not popular with his military leaders, but he insisted on it anyway. This event teaches us about the importance of trusting in God's wisdom and sovereignty, rather than relying on human strength and numbers, as seen in Psalm 20:7. By studying this verse, we can learn to prioritize God's will and plans over our own desires and ambitions, and to trust in His goodness and provision, even when things don't make sense to us, just like the Israelites had to trust God in Exodus 14:13-14.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did King David insist on counting the troops despite Joab's concerns?
King David's insistence on counting the troops may have been driven by pride or a desire for power, as seen in his disregard for Joab's warning, which is similar to the pride that led to the fall of Lucifer in Isaiah 14:12-15.
What does it mean that the king's word prevailed against Joab and the commanders of the army?
This phrase indicates that King David's authority and decision-making power took precedence over the objections and concerns of his military leaders, much like the authority of God's word in Psalm 119:89.
Is there any significance to the fact that Joab and the commanders of the army departed from the presence of the king?
Yes, their departure signifies their obedience to the king's command, despite their reservations, and may also symbolize a separation from the king's presence and blessing, as seen in the story of Adam and Eve's expulsion from the Garden of Eden in Genesis 3:23-24.
How does this event relate to the larger story of King David's life and reign?
This event is part of a larger narrative that explores King David's successes and failures, and ultimately points to the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and wisdom, as expressed in Proverbs 3:5-6.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways in which I may be prioritizing my own desires and plans over God's will, and how can I surrender to His sovereignty?
- How do I respond when faced with decisions or commands that I do not fully understand or agree with, and what can I learn from Joab's example?
- In what ways can I cultivate a deeper trust in God's wisdom and provision, even when circumstances seem uncertain or challenging?
- What are some potential consequences of prioritizing human wisdom and strength over spiritual discernment and obedience, and how can I avoid these pitfalls in my own life?
Gill's Exposition on 2 Samuel 24:4
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Samuel 24:4
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Samuel 24:4
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Samuel 24:4
Cambridge Bible on 2 Samuel 24:4
Sermons on 2 Samuel 24:4
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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The Calling of God by Oswald J. Smith | In this sermon, the speaker tells a parable about a master who returns to his estate and rewards his servants based on their faithfulness and diligence. The master is pleased with |
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(First Baptist Church) #4 - the Welsh Revival of 1904-05 by J. Edwin Orr | In this sermon transcript, the speaker discusses the impact of a revival on the community and the role of the police during this time. The speaker shares that before the revival, t |
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Obedience - the Pathway to Blessing by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of knowing and living by the Word of God. He highlights the need for individuals and families to recognize their own shortcomi |
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Family Series Part 1 (Adolescence and Obedience) by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living in obedience to God and following His word. He highlights the tendency for people to prioritize trivial matters ove |
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Major Ian Thomas - Part 2 by Major Ian Thomas | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power and significance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. He highlights how the early church was transformed by their rediscovery of a |
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Saving Life of Christ - Part 2 by Major Ian Thomas | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the issue of faith fading into mere form and how the church has lost touch with the true essence of Christianity. He emphasizes that history |
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(John - Part 31): The Unpopularity of Jesus and His Doctrines by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being free to follow God's leading, even if it means going against the expectations of others. He encourages the audience |





