Study 7

Text: Psalm 3; 2 Samuel 13-19

INADEQUATE DEALING WITH WICKEDNESS

How correctly David described the rise of wickedness in the following text.

"Lord, how they have increased who trouble me!
Many are they who rise up against me.
Many are they who say of me,
'There is no help for him in God."
Psalm 3:1-2

This was certainly true when Absalom, his son, gathered people to rise up against David! For three years, Absalom fled from the justice of the land (2 Samuel 13:37). Though he was a prince, he would have been executed for murdering his brother (2 Samuel 13:29, 33).

Wickedness not adequately dealt with would always remain a threat! Instead of dealing with Absalom according to justice, David extended a pardon to him (2 Samuel 13:21). Joab, one of the senior generals in David's army schemed to have Absalom forgiven (2 Samuel 13:19-24).

THE RISE AND SPREAD OF WICKEDNESS

Absalom had more than reconciliation with his father in mind! He had designs of usurping his father's throne!

"After this it happened that Absalom provided himself
With chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him."
2 Samuel 15:1

1. A Cunning political move

Absalom's plans were deep. Firstly, he sought to gain popular support. Impressions were important to him. He had a powerful sense of vanity as well. His hair was the most outstanding features in his life.

2. Stealing the hearts of the people

People began to respond and hailed him as a good and prospective leader. He would show sympathy to those who came to him. He would also cast aspersions on the way the country was run by his father (Cf. 2 Samual 15:1-5).
Let us ponder the following text that described the rapid rise of Absalom's political fortune.

"And so it was, whenever anyone came near to him
To bow down to him, that he would put out his hand and take him
And kiss him. In this manner Absalom acted toward all Israel
Who came to the king for judgment, so Absalom stole the hearts
Of the men of Israel."
Genesis 15:5-6

WHEN NOTHING IS DONE TO PREVENT WICKEDNESS FROM SPREADING

What a grave lesson to learn! Sin must be dealt with effectively, or else the problem(s) would never go away completely!

~ Pastor Charlie Tan ~

Released 18th January 2004, © Bethany Independent-Presbyterian Church, Singapore