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Commentary on 2 Samuel 3 verses 7–21
Here, I. Abner breaks with Ish-bosheth, and deserts his interest, upon a little provocation which Ish-bosheth unadvisedly gave him. God can serve his own purposes by the sins and follies of men. 1. Ish-bosheth accused Abner of no less a crime than debauching one of his father's concubines, Sa2 3:7. Whether it was so or no does not appear, nor what ground he had for the suspicion: but, however it was, it would have been Ish-bosheth's prudence to be silent, considering how much it was his interest not to disoblige Abner. If the thing was false, and his jealousy groundless, it was very disingenuous and ungrateful to entertain unjust surmises of one who had ventured his all for him, and was certainly the best friend he had in the world. 2. Abner resented the charge very strongly. Whether he was guilty of the fault concerning this woman or no he does not say (Sa2 3:8), but we suspect he was guilty, for he does not expressly deny it; and, though he was, he lets Ish-bosheth know, (1.) That he scorned to be reproached with it by him, and would not take reproof at his hands. "What!" says Abner, "Am I a dog's head, a vile and contemptible animal, that thou exposest me thus? Sa2 3:8. Is this my recompence for the kindness I have shown to thee and thy father's house, and the good services I have done you?" He magnifies the service with this, that it was against Judah, the tribe on which the crown was settled, and which would certainly have it at last, so that, in supporting the house of Saul, he acted both against his conscience and against his interest, for which he deserved a better requital than this: and yet, perhaps, he would not have been so zealous for the house of Saul if he had not thereby gratified his own ambition and hoped to find his own account in it. Note, Proud men will not bear to be reproved, especially by those whom they think they have obliged. (2.) That he would certainly be revenged on him, Sa2 3:9, Sa2 3:10. With the utmost degree of arrogance and insolence he lets him know that, as he had raised him up, so he could pull him down again and would do it. He knew that God had sworn to David to give him the kingdom, and yet opposed it with all his might from a principle of ambition; but now he complies with it from a principle of revenge, under colour of some regard to the will of God, which was but a pretence. Those that are slaves to their lusts have many masters, which drive, some one way and some another, and, according as they make head, men are violently hurried into self-contradictions. Abner's ambition made him zealous for Ish-bosheth, and now his revenge made him as zealous for David. If he had sincerely regarded God's promise to David, and acted with an eye to that, he would have been steady and uniform in his counsels, and acted in consistency with himself. But, while Abner serves his own lusts, God by him serves his own purposes, makes even his wrath and revenge to praise him, and ordains strength to David by it. Lastly, See how Ish-bosheth was thunder-struck by Abner's insolence: He could not answer him again, Sa2 3:11. If Ish-bosheth had had the spirit of a man, especially of a prince, he might have answered him that his merits were the aggravation of his crimes, that he would not be served by so base a man, and doubted not but to do well enough without him. But he was conscious to himself of his own weakness, and therefore said not a word, lest he should make bad worse. His heart failed him, and he now became, as David had foretold concerning his enemies, like a bowing wall and a tottering fence, Psa 62:3.
II. Abner treats with David. We must suppose that he began to grow weary of Ish-bosheth's cause, and sought an opportunity to desert it, or else, however he might threaten Ish-bosheth with it, for the quashing of the charge against himself, he would not have made good his angry words so soon as he did, Sa2 3:12. He sent messengers to David, to tell him that he was at his service. "Whose is the land? Is it not thine? For thou hast the best title to the government and the best interest in the people's affections." Note, God can find out ways to make those serviceable to the kingdom of Christ who yet have no sincere affection for it and who have vigorously set themselves against it. Enemies are sometimes made a footstool, not only to be trodden upon, but to ascend by. The earth helped the woman.
III. David enters into a treaty with Abner, but upon condition that he shall procure him the restitution of Michal his wife, Sa2 3:13. Hereby, 1. David showed the sincerity of his conjugal affection to his first and most rightful wife; neither her marrying another, nor his, had alienated him from her. Many waters could not quench that love. 2. He testified his respect to the house of Saul. So far was he from trampling upon it, now that it was fallen, that even in his elevation he valued himself not a little on his relation to it. He cannot be pleased with the honours of the throne unless he have Michal, Saul's daughter, to share with him in them, so far is he from bearing any malice to the family of his enemy. Abner sent him word that he must apply to Ish-bosheth, which he did (Sa2 3:14), pleading that he had purchased her at a dear rate, and she was wrongfully taken from him. Ish-bosheth durst not deny his demand, now that he had not Abner to stand by him, but took her from Phaltiel, to whom Saul had married her (Sa2 3:15), and Abner conducted her to David, not doubting but that then he should be doubly welcome when he brought him a wife in one hand and a crown in the other. Her latter husband was loth to part with her, and followed her weeping (Sa2 3:16), but there was no remedy: he must thank himself; for when he took her he knew that another had a right to her. Usurpers must expect to resign. Let no man therefore set his heart on that to which he is not entitled. If any disagreement has separated husband and wife, as they expect the blessing of God let them be reconciled, and come together again; let all former quarrels be forgotten, and let them live together in love, according to God's holy ordinance.
IV. Abner uses his interest with the elders of Israel to bring them over to David, knowing that whichever way they went the common people would follow of course. Now that it serves his own turn he can plead in David's behalf that he was, 1. Israel's choice (Sa2 3:17): "You sought for him in times past to be king over you, when he had signalized himself in so many engagements with the Philistines and done you so much good service; no man can pretend to greater personal merit than David nor to less than Ish-bosheth. You have tried them both, Detur digniori - Give the crown to him that best deserves it. Let David be your king." 2. God's choice (Sa2 3:18): "The Lord hath spoken of David. Compare Sa2 3:9. When God appointed Samuel to anoint him he did, in effect, promise that by his hand he would save Israel; for for that end he was made king. God having promised, by David's hand, to save Israel, it is both your duty, in compliance with God's will, and your interest, in order to your victories over your enemies, to submit to him; and it is the greatest folly in the world to oppose him." Who would have expected such reasonings as these out of Abner's mouth? But thus God will make the enemies of his people to know and own that he has loved them, Rev 3:9. He particularly applied to the men of Benjamin, those of his own tribe, on whom he had the greatest influence, and whom he had drawn in to appear for the house of Saul. He was the man that had deceived them, and therefore he was concerned to undeceive them. Thus the multitude are as they are managed.
V. David concludes the treaty with Abner; and he did wisely and well therein; for, whatever induced Abner to it, it was a good work to put an end to the war, and to settle the Lord's anointed on the throne; and it was as lawful for David to make use of his agency as it is for a poor man to receive alms from a Pharisee, who gives it in pride and hypocrisy. Abner reported to David the sense of the people and the success of his communications with them, Sa2 3:19. He came now, not as at first privately, but with a retinue of twenty men, and David entertained them with a feast (Sa2 3:20) in token of reconciliation and joy and as a pledge of the agreement between them: it was a feast upon a covenant, like that, Gen 26:30. If thy enemy hunger, feed him; but, if he submit, feast him. Abner, pleased with his entertainment, the prevention of his fall with Saul's house (which would have been inevitable if he had not taken this course), and much more with the prospect he had of preferment under David, undertakes in a little time to perfect the revolution, and to bring all Israel into obedience to David, Sa2 3:21. He tells David he shall reign over all that his heart desired. He knew David's elevation took rise from God's appointment, yet he insinuates that it sprang from his own ambition and desire of rule; thus (as bad men often do) he measured that good man by himself. However, David and he parted very good friends, and the affair between them was well settled. Thus it behoves all who fear God and keep his commandments to avoid strife, even with the wicked, to live at peace with all men, and to show the world that they are children of the light.
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SUMMARY
2 Samuel 3:17 captures a pivotal moment in the protracted civil war between the house of Saul and the house of David. It records Abner, the formidable commander of Saul's army and the most influential figure supporting Ish-bosheth, initiating crucial communication with the respected elders of Israel. In this strategic overture, Abner reminds them of their prior inclination and desire for David to be their king, thereby meticulously laying the groundwork for the eventual unification of all Israel under David's long-awaited and divinely ordained rule.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is strategically placed within the narrative of the "long war" between the two rival houses, a conflict explicitly introduced in 2 Samuel 3:1. Immediately prior to this, Abner experiences a profound personal and political rupture with Ish-bosheth, stemming from an accusation regarding Rizpah, one of Saul's concubines. This dispute serves as the direct catalyst for Abner's decisive shift in allegiance, prompting his commitment to transfer the entire kingdom to David (as detailed in 2 Samuel 3:6-11). Verse 17 marks the commencement of Abner's active and calculated efforts to persuade the northern tribes, through their influential elders, to accept David's kingship. This communication represents the critical first step in a series of negotiations that will ultimately lead to David's anointing as king over all Israel, although Abner himself will tragically be assassinated before witnessing the full realization of his efforts.
Historical & Cultural Context: Following the catastrophic deaths of King Saul and his sons at Mount Gilboa, Israel found itself in a state of profound political fragmentation and leadership vacuum. The northern tribes, largely under Abner's sway, had hastily crowned Saul's surviving son, Ish-bosheth, as their king in Mahanaim, while the tribe of Judah had already anointed David as their king in Hebron. This period was characterized by a bitter civil war, marked by skirmishes and a struggle for legitimate authority over the entire nation. The "elders of Israel" were not merely elderly individuals but highly respected and influential tribal leaders, representing the collective wisdom, authority, and will of their respective communities. Their consent and allegiance were absolutely paramount for legitimizing any king's rule over the entire nation. Abner's appeal to their "times past" desire for David likely harks back to David's immense popularity as a military hero and anointed figure before Saul's descent into jealousy, and perhaps even to the widely known divine anointing of David by Samuel, which would have resonated deeply with the elders (see 1 Samuel 16:12-13).
Key Themes: This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes woven throughout the book of 2 Samuel. Firstly, it vividly illustrates the theme of Divine Sovereignty Amidst Human Affairs, demonstrating how God's long-ordained plan for David's kingship is meticulously brought to fruition, even through the complex, often self-serving, and morally ambiguous actions of human agents like Abner. Secondly, it underscores the critical theme of Unification and National Identity, as Abner's strategic efforts represent a crucial step towards healing the deep political and tribal divisions that had plagued Israel since Saul's death. The desire for a unified kingdom under a single, divinely appointed leader was a deep-seated aspiration. Finally, the verse touches upon the Legitimacy of Kingship, emphasizing that for David's rule to be truly accepted and embraced by all Israel, it required not only divine appointment but also the recognition and willing consent of the people, represented by their elders, echoing a long-standing, often suppressed, desire for David as their rightful and capable leader.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse powerfully employs Rhetorical Appeal, as Abner strategically reminds the elders of Israel of their past inclinations towards David. This appeal to a shared memory and a pre-existing consensus serves to legitimize his proposal and smooth the path for David's ascendancy, making the transition seem like a natural culmination rather than an abrupt change. There is also a strong element of Foreshadowing, as Abner's words and actions here directly set the stage for the eventual, long-awaited unification of all Israel under David's kingship, a major turning point and the central narrative arc of the book. Furthermore, the situation contains a profound Irony: Abner, who has been David's fiercest and most formidable adversary for years, now becomes his most ardent advocate, driven not by newfound loyalty to David but by personal slight, wounded pride, and astute political pragmatism. This unexpected shift highlights the complex interplay of human will and divine purpose.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly illustrates the intricate interplay between divine sovereignty and human agency in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. While Abner's decision to switch allegiance was undeniably motivated by personal pique, wounded pride, and political calculation, it undeniably served God's overarching purpose to establish David as king over all Israel—a promise made long before (e.g., 1 Samuel 16:1-13). God frequently uses imperfect, even morally ambiguous, human actions and complex circumstances to bring about His perfect and righteous will. The long, drawn-out civil war was a period of testing, purification, and waiting for David and the nation, but God's plan for David's kingship was unshakeable. Circumstances were now aligning for its fulfillment, demonstrating that God is actively at work even in the midst of human conflict, political maneuvering, and personal motivations, guiding history towards His intended, glorious ends.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The narrative of 2 Samuel 3:17 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, encouraging us to cultivate patience and unwavering trust in God's perfect timing. Just as God's plan for David's kingship unfolded over years of civil war, division, and complex human interactions, our own lives and the broader purposes of God may require seasons of waiting, navigating complexity, and even apparent delay. We are called to diligently discern God's will and courageously align ourselves with it, even when it demands significant shifts in perspective or difficult transitions, much like the elders were reminded of their past inclination towards David. Furthermore, Abner's instrumental role highlights the profound power of influence and leadership; whether in our homes, workplaces, or communities, we possess the opportunity to strategically communicate and act in ways that can pave the way for God's purposes, recognizing that He can sovereignly use a diverse array of individuals and circumstances, even those with mixed motives, to achieve His divine ends.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did Abner suddenly switch allegiance to David?
Answer: Abner's decision was primarily triggered by a deep personal insult and a direct challenge to his authority from Ish-bosheth. Ish-bosheth accused Abner of having relations with Rizpah, one of Saul's concubines, which in ancient Israel was a highly provocative act, often interpreted as an attempt to claim the throne (see 2 Samuel 3:7). Abner, enraged by this public accusation and the perceived slight to his honor, swore a solemn oath to transfer the entire kingdom from the house of Saul to David. While personal offense was the immediate catalyst, Abner also likely possessed the political acumen to recognize the inevitable decline of Saul's house and David's undeniable, divinely favored ascendancy, making a strategic move to secure his own future and influence within the emerging new regime.
Who were the "elders of Israel" and why were they so important?
Answer: The "elders of Israel" were the highly respected, typically older, male leaders of families, clans, and tribes throughout the northern kingdom. They constituted the primary governing body and held significant social, political, and religious authority, acting as representatives and spokesmen for their respective communities. Their approval, consent, and collective endorsement were absolutely essential for any major national decision, including the appointment or recognition of a king. Their agreement conferred legitimacy upon a ruler and was crucial for ensuring the unity and cooperation of the diverse tribes, as vividly demonstrated when David was finally anointed king over all Israel by these very elders in 2 Samuel 5:3.
What does "Ye sought for David in times past" refer to?
Answer: This phrase likely refers to the period before Saul's intense jealousy overshadowed David's widespread popularity. David was a celebrated military hero, beloved by the people for his astonishing victories against the Philistines, especially after his triumph over Goliath (see 1 Samuel 18:7). His charisma, leadership, and military prowess had already earned him immense favor among the populace. Furthermore, David had been secretly anointed king by Samuel long before he ascended to any throne (see 1 Samuel 16:12-13), a fact that may have been known or rumored among the influential leaders, indicating a divine favor and inherent suitability for kingship that the elders had recognized and perhaps even desired during those earlier, more hopeful times.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The long and arduous process of unifying Israel under David's kingship, culminating in Abner's strategic appeal to the elders, serves as a profound foreshadowing of the ultimate, perfect kingship of Jesus Christ. David, though divinely chosen and anointed, was an imperfect king who came to power through conflict, political maneuvering, and even personal failings. Yet, his reign brought a measure of unity and peace to a divided nation, establishing the royal line from which the Messiah would ultimately come. In the New Testament, we discover that humanity is far more deeply divided by sin and spiritual rebellion than Israel was by tribal loyalties, and our innate longing for a perfect ruler, a true shepherd, is ultimately and completely fulfilled in Jesus. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world and the King of kings and Lord of lords. Unlike David, who established an earthly kingdom that would eventually crumble, Jesus proclaimed that His kingdom is not of this world, yet it is a spiritual kingdom that gathers people from every tribe, tongue, and nation into an eternal, unified family (see Revelation 7:9-10). He is the one who truly reconciles all things to Himself, bringing ultimate peace, spiritual unity, and eternal redemption to His people, fulfilling the ancient desire for a perfect, righteous King who reigns forever (see Ephesians 1:9-10 and Colossians 1:19-20).