October 3, 2025 • 39 mins
Chapter 25 of Heroes in the Bible: David with Dr. Tony Evans is inspired by 2 Samuel 13-14.
The Exiled Son - Due to his neglect, David’s family begins to tear at the seems, and he finds himself exiling his own son.
Today's opening prayer is inspired by John 16:33, These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Hi, I'm doctor Tony Evans and I'm excited for you
to join me on Heroes in the Bible. Please be
sure to follow the podcast on Apple or Spotify so
that you get the newest episodes right as they come out.
Welcome to the Epic Adventure of David. A story of honor, battle, jealousy, darkness, friendship, love, scandal,
(00:21):
and murder. While most people know of David the myth,
I few know about David the man, and this episode
was still trapped in a dark period of David's life.
His sin has created a ripple effect and his family
is in disarray. I wish I could say there were
redeeming moments in this episode, but unfortunately, this time in
David's life is one long downward spiral. There's always ultimate
(00:45):
hope in Jesus, but for David, everything seems out of
his grasp. This episode features less of David and more
of his children. We will get our first glimpse into
the princes and princesses of the King's Palace. It is
going to be jarring for us to listen to David's sons.
They don't resemble their father in the slightest as the
(01:06):
dysfunction ensues. We can't help but be discouraged. We thought
David would be a better father than this. I would
also like to offer a fair warning about this episode.
There is a scene that depicts sexual violence and abuse.
These scenes should make all of us feel uneasy, but
we thought it was important not to admit aspects of
(01:26):
David's story. It should sadden us all to observe David's household.
Familial strife can sometimes pose a greater challenge than giants
and armies. Will our hero be able to rise to
the occasion or will he fall into the apathy of
many distant fathers. We will find out in this episode
The Exiled Son.
Speaker 2 (01:51):
Prelude to chapter twenty five. Behold, the sword shall never
depart from your house. Because of the islands you enacted
upon Uriah, violence will plague your household, and strife will
come upon you. These haunting words from the prophet Nathan
(02:11):
to King David proved to be true. The power of
generational sin was not to be underestimated. David's bloodshed against
Juriah would have an enduring ripple effect on his family
for generations to come. The addition of Bathsheba and Solomon
to the family would create new rifts between the king's
wives and the king himself. Siblings would be borne under
(02:32):
the same roof, but with different parents. Affections would be
removed and misplaced, and the familial strife would tear the
entire nation apart. David's compromise with Bathsheba created long lasting
scars that would not be meant at easily. David's wives
would feel betrayed and lied to. David's children would lose
respect for him. Although David had mastered the art of
(02:56):
conquering armies and toppling giants, he found himself ill equipped
to lead his family and love them well. His ignorance
would lead to greater turmoil within his family, and bloodshed
would ensue. Yet in David's family there are glimpses of redemption.
Although generations after him would continue down the path of
sin and compromise, God would be faithful and enduring. He
(03:18):
would press in and bless David's lineage despite their floss
because there was a greater mission taking place, a greater
kingdom being established, a kingdom not built on the fragility
of military conquest and empirical power. Rather, a kingdom built
on the foundation of love, justice, sacrifice, and a hero
(03:38):
that binds the whole universe together. The Messiah, Chapter twenty five,
The Exiled Sun. The mid afternoon sun rested high above Jerusalem,
sending down radiant beams of warmth. The summer's heat had
been cruel, and Tamar cooled herself off by the well
(03:58):
in front of the palace. She patted the back of
her neck with a wet cloth, trying desperately to stay cool.
She leaned over the well and splashed her face. She
breathed in deeply, enjoying a brief respite from the unrelenting heat. However,
her moment of peace was short lived when she saw
a reflection of some one behind her. She turned around
(04:19):
and gasped, yelling and grabbing her chest. However, she saw
that it was only Amnon, her half brother. Amnon stepped
back and gasped as well, taken back by her response.
I didn't mean to frighten you, he said with a smile.
Speaker 3 (04:34):
Was just coming to get a drink of water. Then
I found you here all alone.
Speaker 2 (04:38):
Tamar shook her head and chuckled.
Speaker 4 (04:41):
I am sorry, Amnon, I thought I was alone. I
did not hear you coming here, Let me pour you
some water.
Speaker 2 (04:48):
Tamar took a ladle from the well and poured it
into Amnon's water skin. She gave an awkward smile and
bowed her head apologetically. Although they were half siblings, both
children of King David, they did not treat each other
as such. Most of the children were only close to
their full siblings. Tamar was very close to her brother Absalom,
but otherwise did not speak with most of the others
(05:10):
unless it was during family meals. Amnon, however, was a
slight exception. He cared very much for Tamar and was
never too far away from her. She could sense that
Amnon's affection for her was slightly more than platonic. However,
there was nothing in her power to deter him from
being present. They both lived in the household of the king,
after all. Amnon quietly sipped his waterskin and looked at Tamar.
(05:35):
The silence was uncomfortable for her, but Amnon never seemed
to have an issue with it. He simply stared and
smiled while she went about her business. Amnon's personality was
perhaps the opposite of his father's. While David was humble
and brave at heart, Amnon was more entitled and temperamental.
It is why David never trusted him to battle on
(05:55):
his behalf. That distinct privilege was usually given to Absalom,
the second son and Tamar's brother. Tamar covered her hair
and retrieved more water to put in her pail.
Speaker 3 (06:06):
Well.
Speaker 4 (06:07):
It was lovely seeing you, brother. I will talk to
you tomorrow evening when we have our family meal.
Speaker 2 (06:12):
Tamar took her pail and walked back to the house.
Amnon stared as she left, pining after her with unnatural
desires in his heart. He thought she was the most
beautiful thing he had ever seen. Her light brown hair
tucked behind her head covering, she had stunning green eyes
and fair skin. Amnon could not take his eyes off her.
(06:33):
He leaned over the well and smiled. He watched as
her hip swayed back and forth as she walked away.
His eyes were glazed over with desire, and he found
himself lost in his own imagination. Even when Tamar was
no longer in sight, Amnd still stared in her direction,
lost in his own fantasies. However, his crude thoughts were
(06:54):
interrupted when his friend Jonadab walked by.
Speaker 3 (06:57):
Oh there, my noble Prince Amnon.
Speaker 2 (06:59):
He yelled with enthusiasm. He was also the son of
David's brother Shimeah. He was a wiry and tall young
man with awkward and gangly features. His unfiltered enthusiasm and
questionable character vexed most of the members of David's household. However,
he was Amnon's only friend. He leaned over the well
beside Amnon and put his arm around him.
Speaker 3 (07:20):
What troubles you, dear cousin? No more money to pay
for more women?
Speaker 2 (07:25):
Jonadab gave a boisterous laugh that nobody but Amnon loved.
The prince shook his head and gestured towards the palace.
Speaker 3 (07:33):
No, my friend, there is only one woman I truly desire,
and what woman may I ask is not within the
reach of David's firstborn son.
Speaker 2 (07:42):
Jonadab asked, you can have your pick.
Speaker 5 (07:45):
Of the litter.
Speaker 3 (07:46):
Who on earth could you be pining after?
Speaker 5 (07:49):
I am in love with Tamar, Absalom's.
Speaker 2 (07:52):
Sister, Amnon said with a sigh. John Adab laughed out aloud,
spitting out some of the water he was sipping.
Speaker 3 (08:00):
Absalom's sister. You mean your sister too, eh? You mean
to tell me you are in love with your half.
Speaker 2 (08:06):
Sister, Jonadam jeered an Amnon and continued to mock him.
Speaker 3 (08:10):
And not just any of the dozens of half sisters,
but the one whose brother is a raging psychopath.
Speaker 2 (08:16):
Amnon nodded his head and frowned.
Speaker 3 (08:18):
I want her, Jonadab, I want her so ferociously it
makes me sick to my stomach. Night after night, I
tremble with desire. I am burning, and nothing seems to
quench my inner fire. Well, then, what is to stop
you from taking.
Speaker 2 (08:33):
Her, Jonadab said, with a devious smile.
Speaker 3 (08:37):
Come on, you are the prince and heir to the throne.
She would be lucky to share a bed with you.
Go on and take her for yourself. Quench that fire
that burns within you.
Speaker 5 (08:48):
Surely she would never think of such a thing. If
I asked, she would turn me.
Speaker 2 (08:52):
Away, Amnon said, shaking his head. Jonadab gave a wicked
and almost serpent like gren.
Speaker 5 (08:58):
You don't need to add ask.
Speaker 2 (09:01):
What, am Non said, confused.
Speaker 3 (09:04):
Pretend you are sick, deathly sick. No doubt the King's
attention will be on you. He will want to do
anything to keep you healthy. So when he visits, tell
him that you want your sister Tamar to come and
take care of you. Tell him you need her to
prepare your food and bring it to your bed, and
when she comes you have your way with her.
Speaker 2 (09:24):
Jonadab's suggestion was clearly wicked and completely outside the will
of God. However, Amnon smiled at the idea. His burning
passion outweighed his judgment, and he chose to go through
with John Adab's plan. The next morning, am Non feigned illness.
He pretended to writhe in pain in his bed, He
(09:46):
moaned and wailed for the entire house to hear. Finally,
David came to attend to his son. I'm not, David said,
what has happened to make you so ill?
Speaker 5 (09:56):
I haven't the slightest idea of father.
Speaker 2 (09:59):
Am Non said, faking a cough.
Speaker 5 (10:01):
I fear that this might piece yet to me.
Speaker 2 (10:04):
David furrowed his brow and shook his head in concern. No, Amnon,
we cannot lose you. What can I do to help?
There is maybe one thing, Amnon said, doing his best
to hold back a smile.
Speaker 3 (10:18):
Please let my sister Tamar come and make me a
couple of her homemade cakes.
Speaker 5 (10:22):
She is so talented in how she prepares them.
Speaker 3 (10:25):
Perhaps they were life in my spirits.
Speaker 2 (10:28):
David stroked his son's hair and placed a hand on
his face. He smiled with the doting gaze of a father.
Of course, he said, I will send for her. David
left the room, and Amnon propped himself up on the
bed and snickered. He could not wait for what was
going to happen. Next. Hours later, Amnon heard a knock
at his door. Tamar entered the room with a pan
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of her freshly baked cakes. She bowed her head and
smiled at him.
Speaker 4 (10:54):
How are you feeling, brother.
Speaker 2 (10:56):
She asked gently. Amnon's eyes were intense with ever his
hands trembled at the very sight of her. He could
barely contain his boiling hot desire for her.
Speaker 4 (11:06):
There he is staring again.
Speaker 2 (11:08):
Tamar thought to herself, I must be quick. Tamar faked
a smile and brought the pan to the bedside.
Speaker 4 (11:15):
I have brought you the cakes you requested. I hope
you like them. I have done something different to the dough.
Speaker 2 (11:21):
Am Non ignored her. Instead, he gestured to the servants
in the room. Leave us, he said, with authority. The
servants departed from the room, and Tamar began to grow uncomfortable.
Amnon smiled and said.
Speaker 5 (11:35):
You are sweet to bring me these, dear sister.
Speaker 2 (11:37):
He whispered. He gently caressed her arm.
Speaker 5 (11:40):
You have always been so sweet and caring to me,
unlike the others.
Speaker 2 (11:45):
Tamar pulled her arm away and smirked uncomfortably.
Speaker 4 (11:49):
Your cakes, Amnon here. I shall leave them here at
your bed, and you may get some rest.
Speaker 2 (11:55):
I do not want rest, am Non said, grabbing her hand.
Speaker 5 (11:59):
I want you.
Speaker 2 (12:00):
Tamar tried to pull away, but Amnon's grip became stronger.
Hannik began to set in for her.
Speaker 5 (12:06):
What are you doing, she asked, lie with me tomorrow.
Speaker 2 (12:09):
Em Noon said, forcibly, bringing her in close.
Speaker 5 (12:13):
It can be just our secret.
Speaker 2 (12:15):
He brought his lips in close to kiss her, but
Tamar struggled to lean her head back.
Speaker 4 (12:20):
Please, Amnon, do not do this. If you violate me
like this, I will never get a husband.
Speaker 3 (12:26):
You think I care.
Speaker 2 (12:27):
About that, Amnon yelled.
Speaker 3 (12:29):
You think I want any other man speaking with you,
holding you, or touching you. I want to be the
first and only one that gets to drink you in,
smell your hair, and feel your body on my own.
Speaker 2 (12:42):
Tamar pulled away and released herself from his grip. Tears
were welling up within her, but she tried to remain strong.
Speaker 4 (12:49):
I'm not Please consider what you are doing.
Speaker 2 (12:52):
She said, will backing away from him. However, Amnon was
aggressively walking forward. It did not seem like any words
would save her.
Speaker 4 (13:00):
Yet she continued, saying, how would I be able to
carry my shame if you did this to me? Not
only that, but you would be like one of those
outrageous fools that takes women by force.
Speaker 2 (13:11):
Amnon was not convinced. He was still intent on taking her.
She tried one last time to free herself, but Amnon
grabbed her by the hair and drug her to the bed.
Speaker 4 (13:21):
Please stop, amnod.
Speaker 3 (13:23):
She yelled, Please stop.
Speaker 2 (13:24):
Amnon covered her mouth so she would not scream, then
proceeded to brutalize her. Amnon had his way with her,
descending into the dark and recesses of human depravity. His
wickedness against her was violent, cruel, and quick. He thrashed
her around the bed, doing with her as he pleased,
and when he was finished, he kicked her to the
(13:46):
side of the bed and lay there in silence. He
panted heavily while she lay naked on the side of
the bed, weeping for years. Amnon was pining after Tamar.
For years. He had imagined what there were the first
evening would be led together. It was not at all
what he had dreamed, and he felt a great emptiness
in his soul. He hated himself for his sin, but
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he was too weak of a human being to admit
his mistake. Instead, he projected his inner hatred on to Tamar.
Speaker 3 (14:18):
Worthless, waste of my time.
Speaker 2 (14:20):
He sneered. Tamar did not look up. She remained on
the bed, weeping her silence, and arranged him look at me,
he shouted. Tamar looked up with frightened eyes, and Amnon
descended further and further into a pit of self loathing.
Get out of my sight, he said, spitting in her direction.
Tamar looked up, even more panic than before.
Speaker 4 (14:42):
Rada, If you send me away without trying to marry me,
you are dooming me to a life of loneliness. To
not even pay father a bride price would be a
fate worse than death.
Speaker 2 (14:56):
Amnon sat up in the bed and leaned over. Once
longing and doting stare was replaced with complete animosity. He
hated her with more intensity than he had ever loved her.
Speaker 3 (15:08):
And what makes you think I would care at all
about you? Now leave before I decide to have you
a second time.
Speaker 2 (15:15):
Tamar left Amnon's chambers. She was completely shocked at what
had just happened. She limped back to her bedroom. She
sat down in front of the mirror and looked herself
in the eyes. Her green eyes were once alive with
the beautiful vibrancy of youth, yet now they seemed to
lose their color altogether. A small blade was resting on
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her table for cutting fabric. She took it in her
hand and began to cut the sleeves off her royal robe.
Then she put ashes on her head, symbolizing grief and loss.
She looked at herself blankly, slowly, as she thought about
what had happened, the damn broke. Tears burst forth, and
she cried with great sorrow. So the entire house could
(15:58):
heear her more. No one came to her, aid, No
one came to comfort her. In a house filled with people,
her wails were met with silence until Absalom, her brother,
entered the palace from his home. He heard his sister
and rushed to her. He opened the door and found
her lying on the floor, with the rope ripped and
(16:19):
ashes on her forehead. He knelt down and wrapped her
in his arms. What has happened, he whispered, softly, stroking
her hair. She said nothing. She continued sobbing and duck
her face more into her brother's chest. He held her
until she fell asleep, then left to go investigate. He
heard from the servants that she had come from serving
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Amnon in his room, for he was ill. Absalom entered
Amnon's room and looked around. Things were knocked down, and
it smelled like Tamar's perfume. On the bed lay Amnon
fast asleep. It did not take Absalom long to put
the pieces together. He stood over his sleeping brother, staring
down at him, like the reaper himself. However, he did nothing.
(17:05):
He departed from his room and closed the door gently.
He stood there in the hall for a while, thinking.
He slipped back into his sister's room and sat beside
her bed. He watched her sleep for hours, gently stroking
her hair and humming a hymn. She woke for a
brief moment, and Absalom smiled, how are you feeling, he asked,
(17:26):
She shrugged. She did not have to say anything for
her brother to understand. Absalom nodded and asked, with a
straight face, was.
Speaker 6 (17:33):
This Amnon's doing?
Speaker 2 (17:35):
Yes, she said, whimpering. Absalom kissed her forehead and said.
Speaker 6 (17:40):
Hold your peace, my sister, be strong. I will take
care of you.
Speaker 2 (17:46):
So Tamar moved in with Absalom, his wife, and his
three sons. The family cared for her like their own.
Days later, the news of amnon sins were brought to
David's attention. He was fuming with what. He shouted, The
heir to my throne is raped my daughter. His half sister,
(18:07):
Absalom was in the room, along with two more of
his half brothers, Jalieb and Jeremoth, sons of Abigail. They
watched their father pace by the fire, stewing over the news.
How can I entrust the throne to that insolent and
feeble minded? David stopped and composed himself. Thank you for
telling me. What are your thoughts on the matter? Absolom.
(18:29):
Absalom was often asked these questions by his father. Although
he was not the rightful heir, he was clearly his
father's favorite, or at least second favorite to the newborn Solomon.
David would bring Absalom into battle. They would discuss strategy, politics,
and economics together. However, David's respect for Absalom is precisely
why he held his tongue regarding Amnon. Absalom did not
(18:52):
want to say anything he wanted David ignorant of his
true feelings and intentions. Absalom was not like his brother.
Amnon was a simple man of simple pleasures. Like most
weak willed men, Amnon saw what he wanted and took
it immediately. This was not so for Absalom. He was
a patient man. Although his blood boiled hot with rage
(19:14):
against his half brother, he did not act upon it.
He would wait patiently, as a lioness does with her prey.
He would bide his time until the perfect moment, then
strike when Amnon least expected it. For two years, he waited, planning, preparing.
Absalom knew that vengeance was better served cold. The evening
(19:36):
stars draped over Absalom's second home in Balhisor, and the
warm summer air settled in the valley. Absalom had invited
many people to celebrate the sheep sharing season with him.
Fine wine and freshly made cheese fill their bellies, and
they laughed into the night, sharing memories from their childhoods.
On the surface, it was a perfect night of brotherly love. However,
(19:59):
Absol had different intentions for the evening. His gaze was
fixed on Amnon the entire night. Completely ignorant of Absalom's
disdain for him, Amnon continued to enjoy the hospitality, drinking
of his wine and dancing to the music. The more
wine he drank, the more foolish he became. The revelry continued,
(20:19):
and Amnon was pleased at how the evening was going.
Amnon had become sufficiently drunk and stumbled outside to get
some fresh air. The prince meandered into the barn and
plucked himself down in a pile of hay. He nestled in,
dozing off in the warm summer night. However, he was
a fool to think he was safe. Slowly approaching the
(20:39):
barn door was Absalom and his servants. They waited outside,
talking amongst themselves. He encouraged his men, saying.
Speaker 6 (20:47):
Do not fear what may come. Man, be courageous and
be valiant.
Speaker 2 (20:52):
They drew out their daggers and walked into the barn.
The torchlight lit up the entire barn, and rat scurried
away at the sight. Amnon woke up to see Absalom
standing over him.
Speaker 5 (21:02):
Absalom, what are you doing here?
Speaker 2 (21:05):
He slurred. He looked around, confused.
Speaker 3 (21:08):
How did I find myself in here?
Speaker 2 (21:10):
Absalom squatted down to Amnon's level and looked him in
the eye.
Speaker 6 (21:14):
I have been waiting for this moment for two years, Amnon.
Speaker 2 (21:17):
He held up his dagger and pointed it at Amnon's throat.
The Prince all of a sudden, found himself very sober.
Speaker 3 (21:25):
Absalom, whatever it is that you think I have done,
I assure you I haven't. If this is about Tamar,
let me tell you that it is a big misunderstanding.
In fact, she.
Speaker 2 (21:36):
Quiet, Absalom said, in a calm.
Speaker 6 (21:39):
Voice, every syllable that comes out of your mouth is
like grinding stones against my ears. For all your babbling
and talking, you somehow manage to say nothing at all.
Speaker 3 (21:52):
Would you really return my evil with evil?
Speaker 2 (21:54):
Amnon said, nervously, What.
Speaker 5 (21:57):
Would father say if you knew you did this to me?
Speaker 2 (22:00):
Absalom chuckle and flipped his blade in his hand. His
laughter was unsettling. He couldn't help himself laughing. It drew
out for a long while before he sighed. He shook
his head.
Speaker 6 (22:12):
I want father to know about this night. You see,
when he found out about your crime against my sister,
he was outraged, but he did nothing sure and talked
about punishing you, but he barely even spoke to you
about it.
Speaker 2 (22:28):
Absalom continued to laugh maniacally. Amlon was more scared of
his smile than he was of his blade.
Speaker 6 (22:34):
Our father is weak, just like you, he said. You
are so weak that you had to force yourself on
your own sister just to feel powerful. Our father is
so weak that he found out his daughter had been
raped and did nothing about it. Both of you are
not worthy of the throne. So yes, here I am
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praying that what happens to night reaches his ears, because
when he hears what I have done, he will know
I am a stronger man than he, and I will
be a stronger king too.
Speaker 5 (23:09):
Please, Absalom, let's talk about this.
Speaker 6 (23:12):
I can explain no explanation necessary.
Speaker 2 (23:16):
Who Rather, He looked back at his men and nodded
for them to strike. They all did at once, driving
their blades through the Prince's throat chest and stomached. Absalom
wiped off his blade and breathed a sigh of relief.
Speaker 6 (23:33):
Finally, weight off my shoulders.
Speaker 2 (23:37):
He said. He turned to his servants and.
Speaker 6 (23:39):
Said, tell my other brothers what I have done. I
want them to run in terror as well.
Speaker 2 (23:45):
When the other sons of David heard about what Absalom did,
they mounted their mules and fled Immediately, Absalom sauntered back
to his home and sat in his seat. He ate
alone in the room, content to enjoy the silence caused
by fear. The whole family would now know Absalom was
not someone to be trifled with. The palace was in pandemonium.
(24:08):
News had spread throughout Jerusalem that Absalom killed all of
David's sons. Many people were in an uproar, and when
news came to David, he was destroyed. He tore his
garments and lay on the earth, mourning the death of
his sons. Yet in the midst of the chaos, an
unexpected figure of truth emerged. Jonadab Amnon's closest friend and
(24:29):
David's nephew, appeared. My king, He said, gleefully.
Speaker 3 (24:34):
You look as if you've lost all your heirs except
the one who killed them all.
Speaker 2 (24:38):
I have no patience for your jos Jonadab, leave me
to my grief, David said somberly. I shall leave you,
my king, Jonadab said, with a bow.
Speaker 3 (24:49):
However, I think it might be good for you to
know that most of your sons are alive and well.
Absalom only killed him none he alone is dead.
Speaker 2 (25:00):
David peered up at the young man, confused. Jonadab shrugged
and smiled.
Speaker 5 (25:04):
I tell you the truth.
Speaker 3 (25:06):
Absalom has been planning his revenge since the moment he
found out about Tamar.
Speaker 5 (25:11):
He wanted justice, and he got it.
Speaker 2 (25:14):
Jonadab clicked his heels and bowed to the king, then
gleefully laughed. Even though Amnon had just been killed, Jonadab
seemed immune to any sort of human feeling. David sprang
to his feet in anger and yelled find me. Beniah,
the captain of the guard, came and stood at attention.
David was fuming with righteous anger. Absalom is hereby exiled
(25:35):
from Jerusalem. If I see his face, for hear his
donkeys enter into these walls, he shall die. David banished Absalom. However,
he felt the pangs of guilt because of it. He
knew that Absalom had only done what he did because
David refused to act when necessary. He should have punished
Amnon in the very beginning, yet he did not because
(25:58):
he was afraid of losing the heir to the throne.
He was woefully mistaken and now paid the price. With
both of his eldest sons gone, Absalom fled from Jerusalem
and went to Gesher with his family. There they remained
with their flocks and herds for three years. He waited
in exile for three years. David refused to send for
(26:19):
his son or mention his name. For three years, Absalom
was stewing in his own hatred of his father. He plotted, prepared,
and obsessed over his reunion with his father. David would
soon learn to beware the fury of a patient man,
for Absalom's greatest weapon was time. For three years, every
(26:40):
evening was the same, as predictable as the sun's setting
was David's lament over his son. Absalom. Joab watched each
day as David's heart ached for his exiled son. His
moaning had grown incessant, and Joab had reached his wits end.
Speaker 7 (26:56):
My King, why do you not send for Absalom and reconcile.
Speaker 2 (27:00):
Joeb asked sternly.
Speaker 7 (27:01):
You and I both know that you forgave him long ago.
It is time to end your reeling and bring him home.
He is the heir to the throne, after all.
Speaker 2 (27:10):
What would I say, Joab? David asked, how could I
face him after three years? What kind of father banishes
his son for so long? Joab rolled his eyes. He
had had this conversation with David dozens of times, and
they all entered the same way. The king would not
(27:31):
relinquish his pride and bring his son home. Instead, he
wallowed in self pity and sorrow. Joab and Absalom were
kindred spirits in many ways. The two of them were
close when Absalom served under David's army. He was a
fine warrior and had the cutthroat nature that Joab appreciated
in a soldier. However, even Joab knew that Absalom was
(27:52):
unhinged in many ways. The moral guideposts that most people
had from the law of the Lord seemed to be
absent in Absalom. It made him a brutal warrior, but
a terrible friend. Fed up with David's constant wallowing, Joab
decided to take matters into his own hands. He sought
help from a woman in Teaco. He walked the streets
(28:13):
and found her performing in front of a crowd. She
was an actress and singer. Her performance enraptured the crowd
and brought them in. Dozens of them gathered around her,
hanging on her every word. When she was finished, Joab
approached her. I have business for him, he whispered.
Speaker 4 (28:30):
I am at your service, commander of the king. What
can I do for you?
Speaker 2 (28:34):
She replied eagerly. She knew who Joab was. Everyone in
Israel knew the face of Joab. He had accomplished great
things on the battlefield and was revered among many.
Speaker 8 (28:45):
I need you to play a part for me, he said.
Pretend to be a mourner and put on mourning garments.
I need you to speak to the king and convince
him of something for me.
Speaker 2 (28:55):
Joab went on to explain every elaborate detail of her job.
Joab knew that the King would not listen to reason,
so perhaps Joab needed to try an appeal to David's
tender and empathetic heart. It was noon, and David sat
on his throne, hearing the appeals of the people. The
king did his best to make himself available to the
(29:15):
citizens of Jerusalem. They would fall before him and make
their troubles known to him. If he could help, he would.
David was a compassionate man and desired for justice to
be known and shown throughout the country. A woman finally
entered the court. She fell on her face and paid
homage to him, saying.
Speaker 4 (29:33):
Save me, O King, please save me.
Speaker 2 (29:37):
What is your request? David asked regally, make it known
to me, and I will see if I can be
of service to you.
Speaker 4 (29:46):
Alas, I am a widow from Tico, my dear King,
My husband is dead and buried with his ancestors. The
only joy left for me was my two precious sons.
Yet they hated one another and argued in se So
bad was there quarreling that one of my sons killed
the other.
Speaker 2 (30:05):
The woman paused to compose herself. If David did not
know any better, it seemed as though she was faking tears.
Speaker 4 (30:12):
The woman continued, saying, now the entire village has risen
against me. They want me to give up my son
so they might punish him for killing his brother. However,
if they take my son in stone him, I am
left with nothing and no one. The wealth my husband
left will disappear, and the son I have remaining to
(30:33):
protect me will be gone.
Speaker 2 (30:35):
David rose up from his throne and sat beside the woman.
His smile was kind and reassuring. Go to your house
in peace. The king said, I will give orders to
the elders of Ticoh concerning you. I will be your
protection if they take your son. The King was very
gracious in his offer. However, the woman had her own request.
Speaker 4 (30:57):
My King, might I please I ploor of you and
the Lord to not punish my son. May he live
to take care of me.
Speaker 2 (31:05):
David paused and pondered the request. They were special circumstances,
and the King did not want this woman suffering, so
he agreed, saying, I will pardon your son of his crimes.
As the Lord lives, not one hair on his head
will be harmed. The woman lay her hands at David's
feet and said, thank.
Speaker 4 (31:25):
You, my kind and generous King. The Lord bless you
for your mercy.
Speaker 2 (31:30):
Then she peered up and smiled.
Speaker 4 (31:32):
Please, Lord, would you allow me to say one thing
to the king.
Speaker 2 (31:37):
Speak, David said, plainly, curious about what would happen next.
Speaker 4 (31:42):
Why have you shown yourself to be a hypocrite to
the people of God. You pardon my son, but you
convict yourself because you do not bring your banished son
home and pardon him for his crimes. My King, I
have come here on behalf of the people to request
you bring upsel home. You are a wise king and
(32:03):
able to discern good and evil. May you use the
same wisdom on yourself that you have on me to day.
Speaker 2 (32:09):
The woman stood to her feet and bowed her head
and smiled.
Speaker 4 (32:13):
I have said my peace. Thank you for hearing me.
I shall be on my way.
Speaker 2 (32:18):
As the woman departed, David peered at her. Then, as
she was leaving, he stopped her. Stop. He commanded. She
turned around, come to me, he said sternly. She did
as she was told and knelt down before the king.
He stood over her and looked down. No more games, woman,
(32:39):
I will ask you a question and you will answer
me plainly. Do you understand? She nodded in agreement. David
knelt down and looked her in the eyes intensely. It
was not a pleasant stare. In his eyes were wisdom
and truth. If joe Ab tell you to say these things,
he asked, gulped and nodded. She gave a nervous laugh
(33:03):
and said.
Speaker 4 (33:04):
Ah, surely nothing gets past you, my king. Joab was
the one who told me to say these things. He
desired to change your heart concerning your son. However, you
have the wisdom necessary to make the right decision. That
much has been made clear.
Speaker 2 (33:21):
You may go, David said. On your way out, you
will find Joab to the left of the entrance. Tell
him to come in. The woman bowed and did as
she was told. Joab walked in after she left and
knelt down before the king. He was visibly nervous, knowing
full well that he had just been caught red handed
for trying to manipulate the king. However, David's demeanor was unexpected.
(33:45):
He was relaxed and calm. He looked at Joab and said, Commander,
I know you are close with my son. Behold, I
grant your wish, oh and bring him back here to Jerusalem.
Joe Ab led out a sigh of relief. He was
sure that David was going to punish him. However, deep down,
(34:09):
David wanted Absalom back in Jerusalem. This was an excellent
excuse for him to allow him back. Joab bowed his
entire body before David and said.
Speaker 8 (34:19):
Your mercy continues to astound me, my king. For all
our years, you have continually shown the grace of God.
Thank you for granting my request.
Speaker 2 (34:29):
Joab arose and departed from Jerusalem to Gescher, where Ebsalom
and his family resided. The prince was coming home.
Speaker 1 (34:39):
Although David has mastered the art of conquering armies and
toppling giants, he found himself ill equipped to lead his
family and love them well. That certainly turned out to
be true. The curse Nathan gave in the prelude manifested
itself in this episode. The poor judgment of David had
snowballed into complete familial unrest. His multiple wives, neglect, scandal,
(35:02):
and absentee parenting has left his home in disarray. This
episode highlights the chaos cause by a father's sin. The
generations that come up after us will live in the
wake of our decisions. The degeneracy of David's children ought
to be a warning to us as parents. It takes dedication, attentiveness,
and love to build up a child. But our children
(35:25):
can be easily undone by our sin and neglect. A
prevailing theme in scripture is that each generation, if they
aren't attuned to God, are doomed to repeat the sins
of their forefathers. Many will be mindful to break the
cycles so we don't pass our parents sins to the
next generation. Eminen sins were hideous and worthy of contempt.
(35:47):
Perhaps David, in his better years, would have dealt with
him righteously, balancing judgment and mercy, as he was known
to do. However, in this episode he is paralyzed. The
man who slew giants was unable to face his own
own children. His inability to face his sons was the
main source of strife in this episode. He was unable
to punish Emnen, and he was unable to reconcile with Absolom.
(36:11):
Both turned out to end poorly. Here is another truth
we must take to heart. There is such a thing
as a sin of omission. James says to him who
knows what is good and does not do it to him,
that is sin. Sin doesn't always mean doing the wrong thing.
Sometimes it means neglecting to do the right thing. David,
(36:32):
in both instances with his sons, fails to do the
right thing. We think if we ignore our problems that
they will magically go away. However, the opposite tends to
be true. The longer we neglect our problems, the worse
they become. Next episode will remind David of that. This
episode begs the question where is David and why does
(36:53):
he seem so absent? In this episode? He clearly cares
about what's going on, but he doesn't seem to do
anything about it. The writing style of this episode gives
us a few clues as to what the issue might be.
David is mostly absent when it matters in this episode,
and most of the important plot lines involve his children.
(37:15):
We are seeing the world through their lens. It is
not that David is gone. He is simply doing other things.
We have been following David this whole time, as he
slays kings, liberates kingdoms, and writes music. This episode reminds
us that while all of that was happening, his children
were living their own lives apart from their father.
Speaker 2 (37:35):
For all of.
Speaker 1 (37:36):
David's strengths, he did not live up to his calling
as a father. For all his victories. He failed to
succeed where it mattered most. If your home isn't in order,
then any success outside it becomes meaningless. The Book of
Joseiah has this haunting verse that applies to this situation.
For they have sown the wind, and they shall reap
(37:57):
the whirlwind. We can often think, if we put it
no effort, we will get nothing in return. Some people
are okay with that deal. They can be lazy and
nothing will change. But that version Joseah tells us that
those who put in no effort so the wind will
actually create chaos in their lives, reap the world within.
(38:17):
You can't do nothing and expect things to stay the same.
It is an objective fact that most things deteriorate when
they are neglected. At the end of the episode, David
is paralyzed with grief. He exiled Absalom, but felt guilty
for keeping him away. This is an obnoxious version of
David we aren't used to seeing. He seems benign and ineffectual.
(38:41):
It would seem that age, compromise, and guilt have tamed
the giant slayer. He eventually lets Absolom back in, but
only after they're created effort by Joe App, who tried
to use the same tactic as Nathan from the last episode.
What will it take to get the Warrior Poet back?
It seems like the David is hibernating somewhere in a cave.
(39:03):
David better figure things out soon because Absalom is coming
back to the city and we have seen what type
of evil he is capable of. If he is not
on guard, he may lose everything. The title of our
next episode should give us a sense of what will
happen next. Join us for episode twenty six, The Exiled Father.
(39:24):
Thanks again for listening. For more inspiring stories, daily prayers
and wisdom to last a lifetime, go to pray dot com.
And to expand your heroes in the Bible Journey, download
the Heroes of the Faith devotional at Tonyevans dot org.
Forward slash Heroes. Follow the podcast on Apple or Spotify
to get the newest episodes right now as they come out,
(39:47):
and always be inspired by the Bible. God bless
Hi, I'm doctor Tony Evans and I'm excited for you
to join me on Heroes in the Bible. Please be
sure to follow the podcast on Apple or Spotify so
that you get the newest episodes right as they come out.
Welcome to the Epic Adventure of David. A story of honor, battle, jealousy, darkness, friendship, love, scandal,
(00:21):
and murder. While most people know of David the myth,
I few know about David the man, and this episode
was still trapped in a dark period of David's life.
His sin has created a ripple effect and his family
is in disarray. I wish I could say there were
redeeming moments in this episode, but unfortunately, this time in
David's life is one long downward spiral. There's always ultimate
(00:45):
hope in Jesus, but for David, everything seems out of
his grasp. This episode features less of David and more
of his children. We will get our first glimpse into
the princes and princesses of the King's Palace. It is
going to be jarring for us to listen to David's sons.
They don't resemble their father in the slightest as the
(01:06):
dysfunction ensues. We can't help but be discouraged. We thought
David would be a better father than this. I would
also like to offer a fair warning about this episode.
There is a scene that depicts sexual violence and abuse.
These scenes should make all of us feel uneasy, but
we thought it was important not to admit aspects of
(01:26):
David's story. It should sadden us all to observe David's household.
Familial strife can sometimes pose a greater challenge than giants
and armies. Will our hero be able to rise to
the occasion or will he fall into the apathy of
many distant fathers. We will find out in this episode
The Exiled Son.
Speaker 2 (01:51):
Prelude to chapter twenty five. Behold, the sword shall never
depart from your house. Because of the islands you enacted
upon Uriah, violence will plague your household, and strife will
come upon you. These haunting words from the prophet Nathan
(02:11):
to King David proved to be true. The power of
generational sin was not to be underestimated. David's bloodshed against
Juriah would have an enduring ripple effect on his family
for generations to come. The addition of Bathsheba and Solomon
to the family would create new rifts between the king's
wives and the king himself. Siblings would be borne under
(02:32):
the same roof, but with different parents. Affections would be
removed and misplaced, and the familial strife would tear the
entire nation apart. David's compromise with Bathsheba created long lasting
scars that would not be meant at easily. David's wives
would feel betrayed and lied to. David's children would lose
respect for him. Although David had mastered the art of
(02:56):
conquering armies and toppling giants, he found himself ill equipped
to lead his family and love them well. His ignorance
would lead to greater turmoil within his family, and bloodshed
would ensue. Yet in David's family there are glimpses of redemption.
Although generations after him would continue down the path of
sin and compromise, God would be faithful and enduring. He
(03:18):
would press in and bless David's lineage despite their floss
because there was a greater mission taking place, a greater
kingdom being established, a kingdom not built on the fragility
of military conquest and empirical power. Rather, a kingdom built
on the foundation of love, justice, sacrifice, and a hero
(03:38):
that binds the whole universe together. The Messiah, Chapter twenty five,
The Exiled Sun. The mid afternoon sun rested high above Jerusalem,
sending down radiant beams of warmth. The summer's heat had
been cruel, and Tamar cooled herself off by the well
(03:58):
in front of the palace. She patted the back of
her neck with a wet cloth, trying desperately to stay cool.
She leaned over the well and splashed her face. She
breathed in deeply, enjoying a brief respite from the unrelenting heat. However,
her moment of peace was short lived when she saw
a reflection of some one behind her. She turned around
(04:19):
and gasped, yelling and grabbing her chest. However, she saw
that it was only Amnon, her half brother. Amnon stepped
back and gasped as well, taken back by her response.
I didn't mean to frighten you, he said with a smile.
Speaker 3 (04:34):
Was just coming to get a drink of water. Then
I found you here all alone.
Speaker 2 (04:38):
Tamar shook her head and chuckled.
Speaker 4 (04:41):
I am sorry, Amnon, I thought I was alone. I
did not hear you coming here, Let me pour you
some water.
Speaker 2 (04:48):
Tamar took a ladle from the well and poured it
into Amnon's water skin. She gave an awkward smile and
bowed her head apologetically. Although they were half siblings, both
children of King David, they did not treat each other
as such. Most of the children were only close to
their full siblings. Tamar was very close to her brother Absalom,
but otherwise did not speak with most of the others
(05:10):
unless it was during family meals. Amnon, however, was a
slight exception. He cared very much for Tamar and was
never too far away from her. She could sense that
Amnon's affection for her was slightly more than platonic. However,
there was nothing in her power to deter him from
being present. They both lived in the household of the king,
after all. Amnon quietly sipped his waterskin and looked at Tamar.
(05:35):
The silence was uncomfortable for her, but Amnon never seemed
to have an issue with it. He simply stared and
smiled while she went about her business. Amnon's personality was
perhaps the opposite of his father's. While David was humble
and brave at heart, Amnon was more entitled and temperamental.
It is why David never trusted him to battle on
(05:55):
his behalf. That distinct privilege was usually given to Absalom,
the second son and Tamar's brother. Tamar covered her hair
and retrieved more water to put in her pail.
Speaker 3 (06:06):
Well.
Speaker 4 (06:07):
It was lovely seeing you, brother. I will talk to
you tomorrow evening when we have our family meal.
Speaker 2 (06:12):
Tamar took her pail and walked back to the house.
Amnon stared as she left, pining after her with unnatural
desires in his heart. He thought she was the most
beautiful thing he had ever seen. Her light brown hair
tucked behind her head covering, she had stunning green eyes
and fair skin. Amnon could not take his eyes off her.
(06:33):
He leaned over the well and smiled. He watched as
her hip swayed back and forth as she walked away.
His eyes were glazed over with desire, and he found
himself lost in his own imagination. Even when Tamar was
no longer in sight, Amnd still stared in her direction,
lost in his own fantasies. However, his crude thoughts were
(06:54):
interrupted when his friend Jonadab walked by.
Speaker 3 (06:57):
Oh there, my noble Prince Amnon.
Speaker 2 (06:59):
He yelled with enthusiasm. He was also the son of
David's brother Shimeah. He was a wiry and tall young
man with awkward and gangly features. His unfiltered enthusiasm and
questionable character vexed most of the members of David's household. However,
he was Amnon's only friend. He leaned over the well
beside Amnon and put his arm around him.
Speaker 3 (07:20):
What troubles you, dear cousin? No more money to pay
for more women?
Speaker 2 (07:25):
Jonadab gave a boisterous laugh that nobody but Amnon loved.
The prince shook his head and gestured towards the palace.
Speaker 3 (07:33):
No, my friend, there is only one woman I truly desire,
and what woman may I ask is not within the
reach of David's firstborn son.
Speaker 2 (07:42):
Jonadab asked, you can have your pick.
Speaker 5 (07:45):
Of the litter.
Speaker 3 (07:46):
Who on earth could you be pining after?
Speaker 5 (07:49):
I am in love with Tamar, Absalom's.
Speaker 2 (07:52):
Sister, Amnon said with a sigh. John Adab laughed out aloud,
spitting out some of the water he was sipping.
Speaker 3 (08:00):
Absalom's sister. You mean your sister too, eh? You mean
to tell me you are in love with your half.
Speaker 2 (08:06):
Sister, Jonadam jeered an Amnon and continued to mock him.
Speaker 3 (08:10):
And not just any of the dozens of half sisters,
but the one whose brother is a raging psychopath.
Speaker 2 (08:16):
Amnon nodded his head and frowned.
Speaker 3 (08:18):
I want her, Jonadab, I want her so ferociously it
makes me sick to my stomach. Night after night, I
tremble with desire. I am burning, and nothing seems to
quench my inner fire. Well, then, what is to stop
you from taking.
Speaker 2 (08:33):
Her, Jonadab said, with a devious smile.
Speaker 3 (08:37):
Come on, you are the prince and heir to the throne.
She would be lucky to share a bed with you.
Go on and take her for yourself. Quench that fire
that burns within you.
Speaker 5 (08:48):
Surely she would never think of such a thing. If
I asked, she would turn me.
Speaker 2 (08:52):
Away, Amnon said, shaking his head. Jonadab gave a wicked
and almost serpent like gren.
Speaker 5 (08:58):
You don't need to add ask.
Speaker 2 (09:01):
What, am Non said, confused.
Speaker 3 (09:04):
Pretend you are sick, deathly sick. No doubt the King's
attention will be on you. He will want to do
anything to keep you healthy. So when he visits, tell
him that you want your sister Tamar to come and
take care of you. Tell him you need her to
prepare your food and bring it to your bed, and
when she comes you have your way with her.
Speaker 2 (09:24):
Jonadab's suggestion was clearly wicked and completely outside the will
of God. However, Amnon smiled at the idea. His burning
passion outweighed his judgment, and he chose to go through
with John Adab's plan. The next morning, am Non feigned illness.
He pretended to writhe in pain in his bed, He
(09:46):
moaned and wailed for the entire house to hear. Finally,
David came to attend to his son. I'm not, David said,
what has happened to make you so ill?
Speaker 5 (09:56):
I haven't the slightest idea of father.
Speaker 2 (09:59):
Am Non said, faking a cough.
Speaker 5 (10:01):
I fear that this might piece yet to me.
Speaker 2 (10:04):
David furrowed his brow and shook his head in concern. No, Amnon,
we cannot lose you. What can I do to help?
There is maybe one thing, Amnon said, doing his best
to hold back a smile.
Speaker 3 (10:18):
Please let my sister Tamar come and make me a
couple of her homemade cakes.
Speaker 5 (10:22):
She is so talented in how she prepares them.
Speaker 3 (10:25):
Perhaps they were life in my spirits.
Speaker 2 (10:28):
David stroked his son's hair and placed a hand on
his face. He smiled with the doting gaze of a father.
Of course, he said, I will send for her. David
left the room, and Amnon propped himself up on the
bed and snickered. He could not wait for what was
going to happen. Next. Hours later, Amnon heard a knock
at his door. Tamar entered the room with a pan
(10:51):
of her freshly baked cakes. She bowed her head and
smiled at him.
Speaker 4 (10:54):
How are you feeling, brother.
Speaker 2 (10:56):
She asked gently. Amnon's eyes were intense with ever his
hands trembled at the very sight of her. He could
barely contain his boiling hot desire for her.
Speaker 4 (11:06):
There he is staring again.
Speaker 2 (11:08):
Tamar thought to herself, I must be quick. Tamar faked
a smile and brought the pan to the bedside.
Speaker 4 (11:15):
I have brought you the cakes you requested. I hope
you like them. I have done something different to the dough.
Speaker 2 (11:21):
Am Non ignored her. Instead, he gestured to the servants
in the room. Leave us, he said, with authority. The
servants departed from the room, and Tamar began to grow uncomfortable.
Amnon smiled and said.
Speaker 5 (11:35):
You are sweet to bring me these, dear sister.
Speaker 2 (11:37):
He whispered. He gently caressed her arm.
Speaker 5 (11:40):
You have always been so sweet and caring to me,
unlike the others.
Speaker 2 (11:45):
Tamar pulled her arm away and smirked uncomfortably.
Speaker 4 (11:49):
Your cakes, Amnon here. I shall leave them here at
your bed, and you may get some rest.
Speaker 2 (11:55):
I do not want rest, am Non said, grabbing her hand.
Speaker 5 (11:59):
I want you.
Speaker 2 (12:00):
Tamar tried to pull away, but Amnon's grip became stronger.
Hannik began to set in for her.
Speaker 5 (12:06):
What are you doing, she asked, lie with me tomorrow.
Speaker 2 (12:09):
Em Noon said, forcibly, bringing her in close.
Speaker 5 (12:13):
It can be just our secret.
Speaker 2 (12:15):
He brought his lips in close to kiss her, but
Tamar struggled to lean her head back.
Speaker 4 (12:20):
Please, Amnon, do not do this. If you violate me
like this, I will never get a husband.
Speaker 3 (12:26):
You think I care.
Speaker 2 (12:27):
About that, Amnon yelled.
Speaker 3 (12:29):
You think I want any other man speaking with you,
holding you, or touching you. I want to be the
first and only one that gets to drink you in,
smell your hair, and feel your body on my own.
Speaker 2 (12:42):
Tamar pulled away and released herself from his grip. Tears
were welling up within her, but she tried to remain strong.
Speaker 4 (12:49):
I'm not Please consider what you are doing.
Speaker 2 (12:52):
She said, will backing away from him. However, Amnon was
aggressively walking forward. It did not seem like any words
would save her.
Speaker 4 (13:00):
Yet she continued, saying, how would I be able to
carry my shame if you did this to me? Not
only that, but you would be like one of those
outrageous fools that takes women by force.
Speaker 2 (13:11):
Amnon was not convinced. He was still intent on taking her.
She tried one last time to free herself, but Amnon
grabbed her by the hair and drug her to the bed.
Speaker 4 (13:21):
Please stop, amnod.
Speaker 3 (13:23):
She yelled, Please stop.
Speaker 2 (13:24):
Amnon covered her mouth so she would not scream, then
proceeded to brutalize her. Amnon had his way with her,
descending into the dark and recesses of human depravity. His
wickedness against her was violent, cruel, and quick. He thrashed
her around the bed, doing with her as he pleased,
and when he was finished, he kicked her to the
(13:46):
side of the bed and lay there in silence. He
panted heavily while she lay naked on the side of
the bed, weeping for years. Amnon was pining after Tamar.
For years. He had imagined what there were the first
evening would be led together. It was not at all
what he had dreamed, and he felt a great emptiness
in his soul. He hated himself for his sin, but
(14:10):
he was too weak of a human being to admit
his mistake. Instead, he projected his inner hatred on to Tamar.
Speaker 3 (14:18):
Worthless, waste of my time.
Speaker 2 (14:20):
He sneered. Tamar did not look up. She remained on
the bed, weeping her silence, and arranged him look at me,
he shouted. Tamar looked up with frightened eyes, and Amnon
descended further and further into a pit of self loathing.
Get out of my sight, he said, spitting in her direction.
Tamar looked up, even more panic than before.
Speaker 4 (14:42):
Rada, If you send me away without trying to marry me,
you are dooming me to a life of loneliness. To
not even pay father a bride price would be a
fate worse than death.
Speaker 2 (14:56):
Amnon sat up in the bed and leaned over. Once
longing and doting stare was replaced with complete animosity. He
hated her with more intensity than he had ever loved her.
Speaker 3 (15:08):
And what makes you think I would care at all
about you? Now leave before I decide to have you
a second time.
Speaker 2 (15:15):
Tamar left Amnon's chambers. She was completely shocked at what
had just happened. She limped back to her bedroom. She
sat down in front of the mirror and looked herself
in the eyes. Her green eyes were once alive with
the beautiful vibrancy of youth, yet now they seemed to
lose their color altogether. A small blade was resting on
(15:35):
her table for cutting fabric. She took it in her
hand and began to cut the sleeves off her royal robe.
Then she put ashes on her head, symbolizing grief and loss.
She looked at herself blankly, slowly, as she thought about
what had happened, the damn broke. Tears burst forth, and
she cried with great sorrow. So the entire house could
(15:58):
heear her more. No one came to her, aid, No
one came to comfort her. In a house filled with people,
her wails were met with silence until Absalom, her brother,
entered the palace from his home. He heard his sister
and rushed to her. He opened the door and found
her lying on the floor, with the rope ripped and
(16:19):
ashes on her forehead. He knelt down and wrapped her
in his arms. What has happened, he whispered, softly, stroking
her hair. She said nothing. She continued sobbing and duck
her face more into her brother's chest. He held her
until she fell asleep, then left to go investigate. He
heard from the servants that she had come from serving
(16:41):
Amnon in his room, for he was ill. Absalom entered
Amnon's room and looked around. Things were knocked down, and
it smelled like Tamar's perfume. On the bed lay Amnon
fast asleep. It did not take Absalom long to put
the pieces together. He stood over his sleeping brother, staring
down at him, like the reaper himself. However, he did nothing.
(17:05):
He departed from his room and closed the door gently.
He stood there in the hall for a while, thinking.
He slipped back into his sister's room and sat beside
her bed. He watched her sleep for hours, gently stroking
her hair and humming a hymn. She woke for a
brief moment, and Absalom smiled, how are you feeling, he asked,
(17:26):
She shrugged. She did not have to say anything for
her brother to understand. Absalom nodded and asked, with a
straight face, was.
Speaker 6 (17:33):
This Amnon's doing?
Speaker 2 (17:35):
Yes, she said, whimpering. Absalom kissed her forehead and said.
Speaker 6 (17:40):
Hold your peace, my sister, be strong. I will take
care of you.
Speaker 2 (17:46):
So Tamar moved in with Absalom, his wife, and his
three sons. The family cared for her like their own.
Days later, the news of amnon sins were brought to
David's attention. He was fuming with what. He shouted, The
heir to my throne is raped my daughter. His half sister,
(18:07):
Absalom was in the room, along with two more of
his half brothers, Jalieb and Jeremoth, sons of Abigail. They
watched their father pace by the fire, stewing over the news.
How can I entrust the throne to that insolent and
feeble minded? David stopped and composed himself. Thank you for
telling me. What are your thoughts on the matter? Absolom.
(18:29):
Absalom was often asked these questions by his father. Although
he was not the rightful heir, he was clearly his
father's favorite, or at least second favorite to the newborn Solomon.
David would bring Absalom into battle. They would discuss strategy, politics,
and economics together. However, David's respect for Absalom is precisely
why he held his tongue regarding Amnon. Absalom did not
(18:52):
want to say anything he wanted David ignorant of his
true feelings and intentions. Absalom was not like his brother.
Amnon was a simple man of simple pleasures. Like most
weak willed men, Amnon saw what he wanted and took
it immediately. This was not so for Absalom. He was
a patient man. Although his blood boiled hot with rage
(19:14):
against his half brother, he did not act upon it.
He would wait patiently, as a lioness does with her prey.
He would bide his time until the perfect moment, then
strike when Amnon least expected it. For two years, he waited, planning, preparing.
Absalom knew that vengeance was better served cold. The evening
(19:36):
stars draped over Absalom's second home in Balhisor, and the
warm summer air settled in the valley. Absalom had invited
many people to celebrate the sheep sharing season with him.
Fine wine and freshly made cheese fill their bellies, and
they laughed into the night, sharing memories from their childhoods.
On the surface, it was a perfect night of brotherly love. However,
(19:59):
Absol had different intentions for the evening. His gaze was
fixed on Amnon the entire night. Completely ignorant of Absalom's
disdain for him, Amnon continued to enjoy the hospitality, drinking
of his wine and dancing to the music. The more
wine he drank, the more foolish he became. The revelry continued,
(20:19):
and Amnon was pleased at how the evening was going.
Amnon had become sufficiently drunk and stumbled outside to get
some fresh air. The prince meandered into the barn and
plucked himself down in a pile of hay. He nestled in,
dozing off in the warm summer night. However, he was
a fool to think he was safe. Slowly approaching the
(20:39):
barn door was Absalom and his servants. They waited outside,
talking amongst themselves. He encouraged his men, saying.
Speaker 6 (20:47):
Do not fear what may come. Man, be courageous and
be valiant.
Speaker 2 (20:52):
They drew out their daggers and walked into the barn.
The torchlight lit up the entire barn, and rat scurried
away at the sight. Amnon woke up to see Absalom
standing over him.
Speaker 5 (21:02):
Absalom, what are you doing here?
Speaker 2 (21:05):
He slurred. He looked around, confused.
Speaker 3 (21:08):
How did I find myself in here?
Speaker 2 (21:10):
Absalom squatted down to Amnon's level and looked him in
the eye.
Speaker 6 (21:14):
I have been waiting for this moment for two years, Amnon.
Speaker 2 (21:17):
He held up his dagger and pointed it at Amnon's throat.
The Prince all of a sudden, found himself very sober.
Speaker 3 (21:25):
Absalom, whatever it is that you think I have done,
I assure you I haven't. If this is about Tamar,
let me tell you that it is a big misunderstanding.
In fact, she.
Speaker 2 (21:36):
Quiet, Absalom said, in a calm.
Speaker 6 (21:39):
Voice, every syllable that comes out of your mouth is
like grinding stones against my ears. For all your babbling
and talking, you somehow manage to say nothing at all.
Speaker 3 (21:52):
Would you really return my evil with evil?
Speaker 2 (21:54):
Amnon said, nervously, What.
Speaker 5 (21:57):
Would father say if you knew you did this to me?
Speaker 2 (22:00):
Absalom chuckle and flipped his blade in his hand. His
laughter was unsettling. He couldn't help himself laughing. It drew
out for a long while before he sighed. He shook
his head.
Speaker 6 (22:12):
I want father to know about this night. You see,
when he found out about your crime against my sister,
he was outraged, but he did nothing sure and talked
about punishing you, but he barely even spoke to you
about it.
Speaker 2 (22:28):
Absalom continued to laugh maniacally. Amlon was more scared of
his smile than he was of his blade.
Speaker 6 (22:34):
Our father is weak, just like you, he said. You
are so weak that you had to force yourself on
your own sister just to feel powerful. Our father is
so weak that he found out his daughter had been
raped and did nothing about it. Both of you are
not worthy of the throne. So yes, here I am
(22:56):
praying that what happens to night reaches his ears, because
when he hears what I have done, he will know
I am a stronger man than he, and I will
be a stronger king too.
Speaker 5 (23:09):
Please, Absalom, let's talk about this.
Speaker 6 (23:12):
I can explain no explanation necessary.
Speaker 2 (23:16):
Who Rather, He looked back at his men and nodded
for them to strike. They all did at once, driving
their blades through the Prince's throat chest and stomached. Absalom
wiped off his blade and breathed a sigh of relief.
Speaker 6 (23:33):
Finally, weight off my shoulders.
Speaker 2 (23:37):
He said. He turned to his servants and.
Speaker 6 (23:39):
Said, tell my other brothers what I have done. I
want them to run in terror as well.
Speaker 2 (23:45):
When the other sons of David heard about what Absalom did,
they mounted their mules and fled Immediately, Absalom sauntered back
to his home and sat in his seat. He ate
alone in the room, content to enjoy the silence caused
by fear. The whole family would now know Absalom was
not someone to be trifled with. The palace was in pandemonium.
(24:08):
News had spread throughout Jerusalem that Absalom killed all of
David's sons. Many people were in an uproar, and when
news came to David, he was destroyed. He tore his
garments and lay on the earth, mourning the death of
his sons. Yet in the midst of the chaos, an
unexpected figure of truth emerged. Jonadab Amnon's closest friend and
(24:29):
David's nephew, appeared. My king, He said, gleefully.
Speaker 3 (24:34):
You look as if you've lost all your heirs except
the one who killed them all.
Speaker 2 (24:38):
I have no patience for your jos Jonadab, leave me
to my grief, David said somberly. I shall leave you,
my king, Jonadab said, with a bow.
Speaker 3 (24:49):
However, I think it might be good for you to
know that most of your sons are alive and well.
Absalom only killed him none he alone is dead.
Speaker 2 (25:00):
David peered up at the young man, confused. Jonadab shrugged
and smiled.
Speaker 5 (25:04):
I tell you the truth.
Speaker 3 (25:06):
Absalom has been planning his revenge since the moment he
found out about Tamar.
Speaker 5 (25:11):
He wanted justice, and he got it.
Speaker 2 (25:14):
Jonadab clicked his heels and bowed to the king, then
gleefully laughed. Even though Amnon had just been killed, Jonadab
seemed immune to any sort of human feeling. David sprang
to his feet in anger and yelled find me. Beniah,
the captain of the guard, came and stood at attention.
David was fuming with righteous anger. Absalom is hereby exiled
(25:35):
from Jerusalem. If I see his face, for hear his
donkeys enter into these walls, he shall die. David banished Absalom. However,
he felt the pangs of guilt because of it. He
knew that Absalom had only done what he did because
David refused to act when necessary. He should have punished
Amnon in the very beginning, yet he did not because
(25:58):
he was afraid of losing the heir to the throne.
He was woefully mistaken and now paid the price. With
both of his eldest sons gone, Absalom fled from Jerusalem
and went to Gesher with his family. There they remained
with their flocks and herds for three years. He waited
in exile for three years. David refused to send for
(26:19):
his son or mention his name. For three years, Absalom
was stewing in his own hatred of his father. He plotted, prepared,
and obsessed over his reunion with his father. David would
soon learn to beware the fury of a patient man,
for Absalom's greatest weapon was time. For three years, every
(26:40):
evening was the same, as predictable as the sun's setting
was David's lament over his son. Absalom. Joab watched each
day as David's heart ached for his exiled son. His
moaning had grown incessant, and Joab had reached his wits end.
Speaker 7 (26:56):
My King, why do you not send for Absalom and reconcile.
Speaker 2 (27:00):
Joeb asked sternly.
Speaker 7 (27:01):
You and I both know that you forgave him long ago.
It is time to end your reeling and bring him home.
He is the heir to the throne, after all.
Speaker 2 (27:10):
What would I say, Joab? David asked, how could I
face him after three years? What kind of father banishes
his son for so long? Joab rolled his eyes. He
had had this conversation with David dozens of times, and
they all entered the same way. The king would not
(27:31):
relinquish his pride and bring his son home. Instead, he
wallowed in self pity and sorrow. Joab and Absalom were
kindred spirits in many ways. The two of them were
close when Absalom served under David's army. He was a
fine warrior and had the cutthroat nature that Joab appreciated
in a soldier. However, even Joab knew that Absalom was
(27:52):
unhinged in many ways. The moral guideposts that most people
had from the law of the Lord seemed to be
absent in Absalom. It made him a brutal warrior, but
a terrible friend. Fed up with David's constant wallowing, Joab
decided to take matters into his own hands. He sought
help from a woman in Teaco. He walked the streets
(28:13):
and found her performing in front of a crowd. She
was an actress and singer. Her performance enraptured the crowd
and brought them in. Dozens of them gathered around her,
hanging on her every word. When she was finished, Joab
approached her. I have business for him, he whispered.
Speaker 4 (28:30):
I am at your service, commander of the king. What
can I do for you?
Speaker 2 (28:34):
She replied eagerly. She knew who Joab was. Everyone in
Israel knew the face of Joab. He had accomplished great
things on the battlefield and was revered among many.
Speaker 8 (28:45):
I need you to play a part for me, he said.
Pretend to be a mourner and put on mourning garments.
I need you to speak to the king and convince
him of something for me.
Speaker 2 (28:55):
Joab went on to explain every elaborate detail of her job.
Joab knew that the King would not listen to reason,
so perhaps Joab needed to try an appeal to David's
tender and empathetic heart. It was noon, and David sat
on his throne, hearing the appeals of the people. The
king did his best to make himself available to the
(29:15):
citizens of Jerusalem. They would fall before him and make
their troubles known to him. If he could help, he would.
David was a compassionate man and desired for justice to
be known and shown throughout the country. A woman finally
entered the court. She fell on her face and paid
homage to him, saying.
Speaker 4 (29:33):
Save me, O King, please save me.
Speaker 2 (29:37):
What is your request? David asked regally, make it known
to me, and I will see if I can be
of service to you.
Speaker 4 (29:46):
Alas, I am a widow from Tico, my dear King,
My husband is dead and buried with his ancestors. The
only joy left for me was my two precious sons.
Yet they hated one another and argued in se So
bad was there quarreling that one of my sons killed
the other.
Speaker 2 (30:05):
The woman paused to compose herself. If David did not
know any better, it seemed as though she was faking tears.
Speaker 4 (30:12):
The woman continued, saying, now the entire village has risen
against me. They want me to give up my son
so they might punish him for killing his brother. However,
if they take my son in stone him, I am
left with nothing and no one. The wealth my husband
left will disappear, and the son I have remaining to
(30:33):
protect me will be gone.
Speaker 2 (30:35):
David rose up from his throne and sat beside the woman.
His smile was kind and reassuring. Go to your house
in peace. The king said, I will give orders to
the elders of Ticoh concerning you. I will be your
protection if they take your son. The King was very
gracious in his offer. However, the woman had her own request.
Speaker 4 (30:57):
My King, might I please I ploor of you and
the Lord to not punish my son. May he live
to take care of me.
Speaker 2 (31:05):
David paused and pondered the request. They were special circumstances,
and the King did not want this woman suffering, so
he agreed, saying, I will pardon your son of his crimes.
As the Lord lives, not one hair on his head
will be harmed. The woman lay her hands at David's
feet and said, thank.
Speaker 4 (31:25):
You, my kind and generous King. The Lord bless you
for your mercy.
Speaker 2 (31:30):
Then she peered up and smiled.
Speaker 4 (31:32):
Please, Lord, would you allow me to say one thing
to the king.
Speaker 2 (31:37):
Speak, David said, plainly, curious about what would happen next.
Speaker 4 (31:42):
Why have you shown yourself to be a hypocrite to
the people of God. You pardon my son, but you
convict yourself because you do not bring your banished son
home and pardon him for his crimes. My King, I
have come here on behalf of the people to request
you bring upsel home. You are a wise king and
(32:03):
able to discern good and evil. May you use the
same wisdom on yourself that you have on me to day.
Speaker 2 (32:09):
The woman stood to her feet and bowed her head
and smiled.
Speaker 4 (32:13):
I have said my peace. Thank you for hearing me.
I shall be on my way.
Speaker 2 (32:18):
As the woman departed, David peered at her. Then, as
she was leaving, he stopped her. Stop. He commanded. She
turned around, come to me, he said sternly. She did
as she was told and knelt down before the king.
He stood over her and looked down. No more games, woman,
(32:39):
I will ask you a question and you will answer
me plainly. Do you understand? She nodded in agreement. David
knelt down and looked her in the eyes intensely. It
was not a pleasant stare. In his eyes were wisdom
and truth. If joe Ab tell you to say these things,
he asked, gulped and nodded. She gave a nervous laugh
(33:03):
and said.
Speaker 4 (33:04):
Ah, surely nothing gets past you, my king. Joab was
the one who told me to say these things. He
desired to change your heart concerning your son. However, you
have the wisdom necessary to make the right decision. That
much has been made clear.
Speaker 2 (33:21):
You may go, David said. On your way out, you
will find Joab to the left of the entrance. Tell
him to come in. The woman bowed and did as
she was told. Joab walked in after she left and
knelt down before the king. He was visibly nervous, knowing
full well that he had just been caught red handed
for trying to manipulate the king. However, David's demeanor was unexpected.
(33:45):
He was relaxed and calm. He looked at Joab and said, Commander,
I know you are close with my son. Behold, I
grant your wish, oh and bring him back here to Jerusalem.
Joe Ab led out a sigh of relief. He was
sure that David was going to punish him. However, deep down,
(34:09):
David wanted Absalom back in Jerusalem. This was an excellent
excuse for him to allow him back. Joab bowed his
entire body before David and said.
Speaker 8 (34:19):
Your mercy continues to astound me, my king. For all
our years, you have continually shown the grace of God.
Thank you for granting my request.
Speaker 2 (34:29):
Joab arose and departed from Jerusalem to Gescher, where Ebsalom
and his family resided. The prince was coming home.
Speaker 1 (34:39):
Although David has mastered the art of conquering armies and
toppling giants, he found himself ill equipped to lead his
family and love them well. That certainly turned out to
be true. The curse Nathan gave in the prelude manifested
itself in this episode. The poor judgment of David had
snowballed into complete familial unrest. His multiple wives, neglect, scandal,
(35:02):
and absentee parenting has left his home in disarray. This
episode highlights the chaos cause by a father's sin. The
generations that come up after us will live in the
wake of our decisions. The degeneracy of David's children ought
to be a warning to us as parents. It takes dedication, attentiveness,
and love to build up a child. But our children
(35:25):
can be easily undone by our sin and neglect. A
prevailing theme in scripture is that each generation, if they
aren't attuned to God, are doomed to repeat the sins
of their forefathers. Many will be mindful to break the
cycles so we don't pass our parents sins to the
next generation. Eminen sins were hideous and worthy of contempt.
(35:47):
Perhaps David, in his better years, would have dealt with
him righteously, balancing judgment and mercy, as he was known
to do. However, in this episode he is paralyzed. The
man who slew giants was unable to face his own
own children. His inability to face his sons was the
main source of strife in this episode. He was unable
to punish Emnen, and he was unable to reconcile with Absolom.
(36:11):
Both turned out to end poorly. Here is another truth
we must take to heart. There is such a thing
as a sin of omission. James says to him who
knows what is good and does not do it to him,
that is sin. Sin doesn't always mean doing the wrong thing.
Sometimes it means neglecting to do the right thing. David,
(36:32):
in both instances with his sons, fails to do the
right thing. We think if we ignore our problems that
they will magically go away. However, the opposite tends to
be true. The longer we neglect our problems, the worse
they become. Next episode will remind David of that. This
episode begs the question where is David and why does
(36:53):
he seem so absent? In this episode? He clearly cares
about what's going on, but he doesn't seem to do
anything about it. The writing style of this episode gives
us a few clues as to what the issue might be.
David is mostly absent when it matters in this episode,
and most of the important plot lines involve his children.
(37:15):
We are seeing the world through their lens. It is
not that David is gone. He is simply doing other things.
We have been following David this whole time, as he
slays kings, liberates kingdoms, and writes music. This episode reminds
us that while all of that was happening, his children
were living their own lives apart from their father.
Speaker 2 (37:35):
For all of.
Speaker 1 (37:36):
David's strengths, he did not live up to his calling
as a father. For all his victories. He failed to
succeed where it mattered most. If your home isn't in order,
then any success outside it becomes meaningless. The Book of
Joseiah has this haunting verse that applies to this situation.
For they have sown the wind, and they shall reap
(37:57):
the whirlwind. We can often think, if we put it
no effort, we will get nothing in return. Some people
are okay with that deal. They can be lazy and
nothing will change. But that version Joseah tells us that
those who put in no effort so the wind will
actually create chaos in their lives, reap the world within.
(38:17):
You can't do nothing and expect things to stay the same.
It is an objective fact that most things deteriorate when
they are neglected. At the end of the episode, David
is paralyzed with grief. He exiled Absalom, but felt guilty
for keeping him away. This is an obnoxious version of
David we aren't used to seeing. He seems benign and ineffectual.
(38:41):
It would seem that age, compromise, and guilt have tamed
the giant slayer. He eventually lets Absolom back in, but
only after they're created effort by Joe App, who tried
to use the same tactic as Nathan from the last episode.
What will it take to get the Warrior Poet back?
It seems like the David is hibernating somewhere in a cave.
(39:03):
David better figure things out soon because Absalom is coming
back to the city and we have seen what type
of evil he is capable of. If he is not
on guard, he may lose everything. The title of our
next episode should give us a sense of what will
happen next. Join us for episode twenty six, The Exiled Father.
(39:24):
Thanks again for listening. For more inspiring stories, daily prayers
and wisdom to last a lifetime, go to pray dot com.
And to expand your heroes in the Bible Journey, download
the Heroes of the Faith devotional at Tonyevans dot org.
Forward slash Heroes. Follow the podcast on Apple or Spotify
to get the newest episodes right now as they come out,
(39:47):
and always be inspired by the Bible. God bless
Host
Dr. Tony Evans
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