This is part of a video series covering the entire Bible in 4 years, one chapter at a time. Start at the beginning with Genesis 1 (Youtube link: https://youtu.be/wC2qD4RGOdo)) and work through the playlist. Or go to https://www.peace.org.au/bible.html for more information.
In this video listen to 2 Samuel Chapter 14, read by David Alley, followed by comments and prayer.
In 2 Samuel Chapter 14 Absalom would have been third in line to the throne, but after murdering Ammon he goes into exile in Geshur.
Joab for unknown reason initiates a process to restore Absalom. It takes five years in two stages to bring this about. Absalom’s banishment in Geshur for three years, and then isolation at home for another two seems cruel to us, but was somewhat merciful punishment for the times. David loved his son, but probably felt he had no choice. The law required Absalom to be killed, just as it required Amnon to die. But David seems to be following the example of what God did to Cain, allowing him to live for killing his brother, but sending him away. Eventually David and Absalom are reconciled, but it is not what it was before, and Absalom only feins respect. His heart is far away.
After his restoration, Absalom sets about his strategy of winning people over in an attempt to take the throne. In some ways Absalom is like Lucifer - someone close to the king, who aspired to be the king, and had justification in their own mind as to why it was right.
There is a thing called the Absalom spirit - a spirit of rebellion and usurping. This happens in some ministries where an up and coming leader sees themselves as better and wants to remove the head leader. It can be done obviously or quietly. The spirit is not a person, and yet a person can act like Absalom, controlled by that same motive.
We must make sure such a thing isn’t within us. Instead we seek a spirit of sonship, the heart of Christ towards his parents and towards his heavenly father. We seek to honor our leaders and serve with sincerity.
Oct 21, 2021 | Message by David Alley