The beginning of rebellion

After four years of preparing for rebellion, Absalom obtained permission from his father David to go to Hebron under the pretense of fulfilling a vow to the Lord. However, his true purpose was to proclaim himself king there. Behind his choice of Hebron were three key reasons. (1) It was the place of his birth. (2) His father David had become king in Hebron and began his journey toward becoming king over the unified kingdom from there. Absalom likely intended to follow in his father’s footsteps. (3) Hebron was the central city of the tribe of Judah. If a civil war were to break out, the soldiers who would fight on David’s side would likely be gathered primarily from Hebron. By going there himself, Absalom intended to bring the people of that region under his own control. At this time, Absalom sent secret messengers throughout all the tribes of Israel, calling them to join in his rebellion. This reveals that, through careful preparation, he had already positioned rebels across the nation ready to support his uprising.

Poor judgement

(1) Take note of how easily David was deceived. A kindhearted parent who spoils a child tends to believe their words without question, especially when religion is used as a pretext. David said to Absalom, “Go in peace,” sending him off with goodwill. He had no suspicion whatsoever. Yet these words became the last ones David ever spoke to Absalom. (2) Next, consider the 200 men from Jerusalem who accompanied Absalom to Hebron at his invitation. They were trusted officials of David. They responded to Absalom’s invitation, likely believing it to be a genuine act of religious devotion. For Absalom, even if only a few of them ended up supporting him, it would be a major gain. David’s counselor, Ahithophel the Gilonite, had already joined the conspiracy. Let us remember the words of the Lord Jesus: “So be as wary as serpents, and as innocent as doves.” (Matt. 10:16). Being innocent like a dove is not enough. We must also act with the discernment of a serpent when facing evil. Let us seek spiritual insight to live with both wisdom and purity.