Longterm plan

Absalom was the type of person who carried out his plans with long-term strategy. (1) After two full years, he put his plan to kill Amnon into action. This reveals how deeply rooted and unshakable his hatred truly was. (2) To avoid arousing suspicion about his plan, Absalom first invited his father, King David, and his servants to the celebration of the sheep-shearing. Of course, he anticipated that David would decline. (3) As expected, David declined the invitation. Attending an event hosted by only one of his sons could be seen as favoritism. (4) Absalom then asked that his eldest brother, Amnon, be sent in his place. (5) At first, David hesitated, but because Absalom persisted insistently, he eventually agreed to send Amnon along with all the king’s sons to the celebration. It may seem strange that a man as wise as David would fall into Absalom’s scheme, but here it should be understood that God had allowed David’s discernment to be dulled. Thus, Amnon came to receive judgment for his sin.

The assassination

Let us take note of the depth of Absalom’s sin. (1) He chose the least appropriate time and place to commit murder. A setting that was meant to be one of joy and gratitude became a scene of bloodshed. This was an act of rebellion against God. (2) Furthermore, when Amnon had become drunk, Absalom commanded his young servants to kill him at his order. He dragged his subordinates into his own sin. (3) He said, “Do not fear; have I not commanded you myself? Be courageous and be valiant.” What he meant was, “Once the eldest son Amnon is dead, I will become the heir to the throne. When that happens, I will be able to reward you.” Behind these words lies Absalom’s hidden ambition for the throne. We must not hold on to hatred in our hearts. The best way to be freed from hatred is to entrust judgment to the Lord. “Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written: ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord” (Rom. 12:19).