January 19, 2024 • 42 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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Episode Transcript
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Speaker 1 (00:00):
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.
John sixteen thirty three. Dear Lord, I thank you for
sending your Holy Spirit to me in my time of need.
(00:23):
Thank you for allowing me to come to you at
any time and find peace that this world cannot give.
Remind me that when trouble strikes, I don't have to
go through any of it alone or in despair. You
are always with me. You will comfort and strengthen me.
(00:45):
Life is hard sometimes, but you remind me that you
have already overcome every challenge or obstacle I will face.
You have won the victory. Thank you, Jesus for giving
up everything for me, for dying on the cross to
win that victory. No matter how hard things get, I
(01:09):
can be confident in your love for me. I can
stand strong in the hope and the courage and the
strength you give me. God, give me a wise heart,
a heart that turns to you in times of need,
rather than seeking worldly answers that only leave me empty.
(01:33):
Help me to hold on to your magnificent promises. Whenever
I feel overwhelmed. Remind me that you are with me
and that together we will accomplish tremendous feats for your
kingdom and your glory in Jesus name, Amen. Stay tuned
(01:55):
to immerse yourself in the greatest stories ever told from
Pray Tom's podcast, Heroes in the Bible.
Speaker 2 (02:04):
Hello. My name is Matthew Potter, co founder of Prey
dot Com, and before we start today's episode of Heroes
in the Bible, I wanted to ask do you know
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Credit Union, your everyday banking helps grow churches, expand the
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(02:25):
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Speaker 3 (02:45):
Hi.
Speaker 4 (02:45):
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,
(03:06):
and murder. While most people know of David the myth,
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 hope
(03:30):
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 dysfunction ensues,
(03:52):
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 David's story.
(04:12):
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 3 (04:36):
Prelude to chapter twenty five. Behold, the sword shall never
depart from your house because of the violence you enacted
upon your ria. Violence will plague your household, and strife
will come upon you. These haunting words from the prophet
Nathan to King David proved to be true. The power
(04:59):
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 the same roof, but with different parents. Affections would
(05:21):
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 conquering armies and toppling giants, he found himself ill
(05:44):
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 would press in and bless David's lineage despite their
(06:06):
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 that binds the whole universe together. The Messiah, Chapter
(06:29):
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 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
(06:51):
splashed her face. She breathed in deeply, enjoying a brief
respite from the unrelenting heat. However, her moment of peace
was shortly when she saw a reflection of someone behind her.
She turned around 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
(07:14):
her response. I didn't mean to frighten you, he said
with a smile.
Speaker 5 (07:19):
Was just coming to get a drink of water. Then
I found you here all alone.
Speaker 3 (07:23):
Tamar shook her head and chuckled.
Speaker 6 (07:25):
I am sorry, Amnon. I thought I was alone. I
did not hear you coming here. Let me pour you
some water.
Speaker 3 (07:33):
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
(07:55):
unless it was during family meals. Amnon, however, was a
slight except 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.
(08:19):
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
(08:40):
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 6 (08:51):
Well, it was lovely seeing you, brother. I will talk
to you tomorrow evening when we have our family meal.
Speaker 3 (08:57):
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.
(09:18):
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, Amnon still stared in her direction,
lost in his own fantasies. However, his crude thoughts were
(09:39):
interrupted when his friend Jonadab walked by.
Speaker 5 (09:41):
Oh there, my noble prince, Amnon.
Speaker 3 (09:44):
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 5 (10:05):
What troubles you, dear cousin? No more money to pay
for more women?
Speaker 3 (10:09):
Jonadab gave a boisterous laugh than nobody, but Amnon loved.
The prince, shook his head and gestured towards the palace.
Speaker 5 (10:18):
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 3 (10:27):
Jonadab asked, you can have your pick.
Speaker 5 (10:30):
Of the litter. Who on earth could you be pining after?
I am in love with Tamar, Absalom's sister.
Speaker 3 (10:38):
Amnon said, with a sigh. Johnadab laughed out loud, spitting
out some of the water he was.
Speaker 5 (10:43):
Sipping Absalom's sister. You mean your sister too, eh? You
mean to tell me you are in love with your
half sister?
Speaker 3 (10:52):
Jonadab jeered at Amnon and continued to mock him.
Speaker 5 (10:55):
And not just any of the dozens of half sisters,
but the one whose brother is a raging sound. Go pass.
Speaker 3 (11:01):
Amnon nodded his head and frowned.
Speaker 5 (11:03):
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 3 (11:18):
Her, Jonadab said, with a devious smile.
Speaker 5 (11:22):
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. Surely she would never think of
such a thing. If I asked, she would turn me.
Speaker 3 (11:37):
Away, am Non said, shaking his head. Jonadab gave a
wicked and almost serpent like gren.
Speaker 7 (11:43):
You don't need to ask, what, am.
Speaker 3 (11:47):
Non said, confused.
Speaker 5 (11:49):
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 3 (12:09):
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 Jonadab's plan. The next morning, am Non feigned illness.
He pretended to writhe in pain. In his bed, he
(12:31):
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 (12:41):
I haven't the slightest idea of father.
Speaker 3 (12:44):
Am Non said, faking a cough.
Speaker 5 (12:46):
I fear that this might pisy yet of me.
Speaker 3 (12:49):
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, a Non said, doing his
best to hold back a smile.
Speaker 5 (13:03):
Please let my sister Tamar come and make me a
couple of her homemade cakes. She is so talented in
how she prepares them. Perhaps they were life in my spirits.
Speaker 3 (13:13):
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
(13:36):
of her freshly baked cakes. She bowed her head and
smiled at him.
Speaker 6 (13:39):
How are you feeling, brother.
Speaker 3 (13:41):
She asked gently. Amnon's eyes were intense with avarice. His
hands trembled at the very sight of her. He could
barely contain his boiling hot desire for her.
Speaker 6 (13:51):
There he is staring again.
Speaker 3 (13:53):
Tamar thought to herself, I must be quick. Tamar faked
a smile and brought the pan to the bedside.
Speaker 6 (14:00):
I have brought you the cakes you requested. I hope
you like them. I have done something different to the dough.
Speaker 3 (14:06):
Amnon 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 (14:20):
You are sweet to bring me these.
Speaker 3 (14:21):
Dear sister, he whispered. He gently caressed her arm.
Speaker 5 (14:25):
You have always been so sweet and caring to me,
unlike the others.
Speaker 3 (14:30):
Tamar pulled her arm away and smirked uncomfortably.
Speaker 6 (14:34):
Your cakes, Amnon here. I shall leave them here at
your bed and you may get some rest.
Speaker 3 (14:40):
I do not want rest, am Non said, grabbing her hand.
Speaker 7 (14:44):
I want you.
Speaker 3 (14:45):
Tamar tried to pull away, but Amnon's grip became stronger.
Panic began to set in for her.
Speaker 6 (14:51):
What are you doing, she asked.
Speaker 3 (14:53):
Lie with me tomorrow, m Noon said, forcibly bringing her
in close.
Speaker 5 (14:58):
It can be just our secret.
Speaker 3 (15:00):
He brought his lips in close to kiss her, but
Tamar struggled to lean her head back.
Speaker 6 (15:05):
Please, Amnon, do not do this. If you violate me
like this, I will never get a husband.
Speaker 5 (15:11):
You think I care.
Speaker 3 (15:12):
About that, Amnon yelled.
Speaker 5 (15:14):
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.
Speaker 3 (15:26):
On mild Tamar pulled away and released herself from his grip.
Tears were welling up within her, but she tried to
remain strong.
Speaker 6 (15:34):
I'm not Please consider what you are.
Speaker 3 (15:36):
Doing, she said, while backing away from him. However, Amnon
was aggressively walking forward. It did not seem like any
words would save her if she continued saying, how.
Speaker 6 (15:47):
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 3 (15:56):
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 6 (16:06):
Please stop, Amnon.
Speaker 3 (16:07):
She yelled a please. 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
(16:31):
kicked her to the 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 Tamark for years. He had imagined what
their first evening would be like 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,
(16:55):
but he was too weak of a human being to
admit his mistake. Instead, he projected his inner hatred on too.
Speaker 5 (17:02):
Tamar, worthless, waste of my time.
Speaker 3 (17:05):
He sneered. Tamar did not look up. She remained on
the bed, weeping. Her silence 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, Ranada.
Speaker 6 (17:28):
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 3 (17:41):
Amnon sat up in the bed and leaned over. His
once longing and doting stare was replaced with complete animosity.
He hated her with more intensity than he had ever
loved her.
Speaker 5 (17:53):
And what makes you think I would care at all
about you? Now leave before I decide to have you
a second time.
Speaker 3 (18:00):
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
(18:20):
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 dam broke. Tears burst forth, and
she cried with great sorrow, so the entire house could
(18:43):
hear the moment. 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 hurt his sister
and rushed to her. He opened the door and found
her lying on the floor, with the rope ripped and
(19:04):
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
(19:26):
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.
(19:49):
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.
Speaker 7 (20:08):
How are you feeling, he asked.
Speaker 3 (20:11):
She shrugged. She did not have to say anything for
her brother to understand. Absalom nodded and asked, with a
straight face, was.
Speaker 7 (20:18):
This Amnon's doing?
Speaker 3 (20:20):
Yes, she said, whimpering. Absalom kissed her forehead and said.
Speaker 7 (20:25):
Hold your peace, my sister, be strong. I will take
care of you.
Speaker 3 (20:31):
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 anger. What he shouted,
The heir to my throne has raped my daughter. His
half sister, Absalom was in the room, along with two
(20:53):
more of his half brothers, Shalib and Jeremoth, sons of Abigail.
They watched their father paced 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.
(21:14):
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 this tongue regarding Amnon, Absalom did not
(21:37):
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
(21:58):
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
(22:21):
stars draped over Absalom's second home in Balhazor, 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,
(22:44):
Absalom 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 drew, the more foolish he became. The revelry continued,
and Amnon was pleased at how the evening was going.
(23:07):
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
barn door was Absalom and his servants. They waited outside,
(23:28):
talking amongst themselves. He encouraged his men, saying.
Speaker 7 (23:32):
Do not fear what may come. Man, be courageous and
be valiant.
Speaker 3 (23:37):
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 (23:47):
Absaloma, what are you doing here?
Speaker 3 (23:49):
He slurred. He looked around, confused.
Speaker 5 (23:53):
How did I find myself in here?
Speaker 3 (23:55):
Absalom squatted down to Amnon's level and looked him in
the eye.
Speaker 7 (23:59):
I had been waiting for this moment for two years, Amnon.
Speaker 3 (24:02):
He held up his dagger and pointed it at Amnon's throat.
The prince all of a sudden, found himself very sober.
Speaker 5 (24:10):
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 3 (24:21):
Quiet, Absalom said, in a calm voice.
Speaker 7 (24:25):
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 5 (24:36):
Would you really return my evil with evil?
Speaker 3 (24:39):
Amnon said nervously.
Speaker 5 (24:42):
What would father say if you knew you did this
to me?
Speaker 3 (24:45):
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 7 (24:57):
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, he talked
about punishing you, but he barely even spoke to you
about it.
Speaker 3 (25:13):
Absalom continued to laugh maniacally. Hanlon was more scared of
his smile than he was of his blade.
Speaker 5 (25:19):
Our father is weak, just like you.
Speaker 3 (25:22):
He said.
Speaker 7 (25:23):
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 praying that what happens tonight reaches his ears, because
(25:45):
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 (25:54):
Please, Absalom, let's talk about this.
Speaker 7 (25:57):
I can explain no explanation, nesss.
Speaker 3 (26:02):
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 7 (26:18):
Finally, a weight off my shoulders, he said.
Speaker 3 (26:23):
He turned to his servants and said.
Speaker 7 (26:25):
Tell my other brothers what I have done. I want
them to run in terror as well.
Speaker 3 (26:30):
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.
(26:53):
News had spread throughout Jerusalem that Absalom killed all of
David's sons. Many people were in an uproar, and when
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. Johnadab, Amnon's closest friend
(27:14):
and David's nephew, appeared. My king, He said, gleefully, you.
Speaker 5 (27:19):
Look as if you've lost all your heirs except the
one who killed them all.
Speaker 3 (27:22):
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 5 (27:34):
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 3 (27:45):
David peered up at the young man, confused. Jonadab shrugged
and smiled.
Speaker 5 (27:49):
I tell you the truth. Absalom has been planning his
revenge since the moment he found out about Tamar. He
wanted justice, and he got it.
Speaker 3 (27:59):
Jonadab clicked his heels and bowed to the king, then
gleefully left. 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
(28:20):
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
(28:43):
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 years. He waited in exile
for three years. David refused to send for his son
(29:05):
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
(29:25):
evening was the same, as predictable as the sun's setting,
was David's lament over his son Absalom. Joeb 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 8 (29:41):
My king, why do you not send for Absalom and.
Speaker 3 (29:44):
Reconcile, Joeb asked sternly.
Speaker 8 (29:46):
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.
Speaker 3 (29:54):
After all, what would I say? Job? 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
(30:16):
not 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
(30:37):
was 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 Teco. He walked the
(30:58):
streets 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 6 (31:15):
I am at your service, commander of the king. What
can I do for you?
Speaker 3 (31:19):
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. 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 from me. Job went on to explain
(31:41):
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 a fait edible to the citizens of Jerusalem.
(32:02):
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 6 (32:18):
Save me, O King, please save me.
Speaker 3 (32:22):
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 6 (32:30):
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 incessantly. So bad
was their quarreling that one of my sons killed the other.
Speaker 3 (32:50):
The woman paused to compose herself. If David did not
know any better, it seemed as though she was faking tears.
Speaker 6 (32:57):
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
(33:17):
protect me will be gone.
Speaker 3 (33:20):
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 6 (33:42):
My King, might I please implore of you and the
Lord to not punish my son. May he live to
take care of me.
Speaker 3 (33:50):
David paused and ponder 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 6 (34:09):
You, my kind and generous King. The Lord bless you
for your mercy.
Speaker 3 (34:15):
Then she peered up and smiled.
Speaker 6 (34:17):
Please, Lord, would you allow me to say one thing
to the King?
Speaker 3 (34:22):
Speak? David said, plainly, curious about what would happen next.
Speaker 6 (34:27):
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 up Salem home. You are a wise king
(34:47):
and able to discern good and evil. May you use
the same wisdom on yourself that you have on me
to day.
Speaker 3 (34:54):
The woman stood to her feet and bowed her head
and smiled.
Speaker 6 (34:57):
I have said my peace. Thank you for hearing me.
I shall be on my way.
Speaker 3 (35:03):
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,
(35:24):
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 Joab tell you to say these things,
he asked, The woman gulped and nodded. She gave a
(35:47):
nervous laugh.
Speaker 6 (35:47):
And said, ah, surely nothing gets past you, my king.
Joe Ab 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 3 (36:05):
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
(36:25):
for trying to manipulate the king. However, David's demeanor was unexpected.
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. Go and bring him back here to Jerusalem.
(36:47):
Joe Ab let out a sigh of relief. He was
sure that David was going to punish him. However, deep down,
David wanted Absalom back to Jerusalem. This was an excellent
excuse for him to allow him back. Joab bowed his
entire body before David and said.
Speaker 9 (37:03):
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 3 (37:14):
Joab arose and departed from Jerusalem to Gescher, where Ebsalom
and his family resided. The prince was coming home.
Speaker 4 (37:24):
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 has
snowballed into complete familial unrest. His multiple wives, neglect, scandal,
(37:47):
and absentee parenting has left his home in disarray. This
episode highlights the chaos caused 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
(38:10):
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. Emnn's sins were hideous and worthy of contempt.
(38:31):
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 children.
His inability to face his sons was the main source
of strife in this episode. He was unable to punish Emnen,
(38:53):
and he was unable to reconcile with Absolom. Both turned
out to end poorly. Here is another Trie 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.
(39:13):
Sometimes it means neglecting to do the right thing. David,
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
(39:34):
episode begs the question where is David and why does
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,
(39:57):
and most of the important plot lines involve his children.
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
(40:17):
were living their own lives apart from their father. For
all of 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 Joseah has this haunting verse that applies
(40:37):
to this situation. For they have sown the wind, and
they shall reap 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 in Joseah
tells us that those who put in no effort so
the wind will actually create chaos in their lives, reap
(41:01):
the world with 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
(41:24):
seems benign and ineffectual. 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 real
(41:45):
David is hibernating somewhere in a cave. David better figure
things out soon, because Absolom 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
(42:06):
us for episode twenty six, The Exiled Father. 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
(42:29):
get the newest episodes right now as they come out,
and always be inspired by the Bible. God bless
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.
John sixteen thirty three. Dear Lord, I thank you for
sending your Holy Spirit to me in my time of need.
(00:23):
Thank you for allowing me to come to you at
any time and find peace that this world cannot give.
Remind me that when trouble strikes, I don't have to
go through any of it alone or in despair. You
are always with me. You will comfort and strengthen me.
(00:45):
Life is hard sometimes, but you remind me that you
have already overcome every challenge or obstacle I will face.
You have won the victory. Thank you, Jesus for giving
up everything for me, for dying on the cross to
win that victory. No matter how hard things get, I
(01:09):
can be confident in your love for me. I can
stand strong in the hope and the courage and the
strength you give me. God, give me a wise heart,
a heart that turns to you in times of need,
rather than seeking worldly answers that only leave me empty.
(01:33):
Help me to hold on to your magnificent promises. Whenever
I feel overwhelmed. Remind me that you are with me
and that together we will accomplish tremendous feats for your
kingdom and your glory in Jesus name, Amen. Stay tuned
(01:55):
to immerse yourself in the greatest stories ever told from
Pray Tom's podcast, Heroes in the Bible.
Speaker 2 (02:04):
Hello. My name is Matthew Potter, co founder of Prey
dot Com, and before we start today's episode of Heroes
in the Bible, I wanted to ask do you know
what your bank does with your money? At America's Christian
Credit Union, your everyday banking helps grow churches, expand the
reach of missions agencies, and supports fellow believers across the country.
(02:25):
Learn more about specials for switching to ACCU and their
nationwide banking capabilities at America's christiancu dot Com Forward slash
Prey plus the peace of mind knowing that this credit
union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration.
Speaker 3 (02:45):
Hi.
Speaker 4 (02:45):
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,
(03:06):
and murder. While most people know of David the myth,
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 hope
(03:30):
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 dysfunction ensues,
(03:52):
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 David's story.
(04:12):
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 3 (04:36):
Prelude to chapter twenty five. Behold, the sword shall never
depart from your house because of the violence you enacted
upon your ria. Violence will plague your household, and strife
will come upon you. These haunting words from the prophet
Nathan to King David proved to be true. The power
(04:59):
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 the same roof, but with different parents. Affections would
(05:21):
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 conquering armies and toppling giants, he found himself ill
(05:44):
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 would press in and bless David's lineage despite their
(06:06):
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 that binds the whole universe together. The Messiah, Chapter
(06:29):
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 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
(06:51):
splashed her face. She breathed in deeply, enjoying a brief
respite from the unrelenting heat. However, her moment of peace
was shortly when she saw a reflection of someone behind her.
She turned around 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
(07:14):
her response. I didn't mean to frighten you, he said
with a smile.
Speaker 5 (07:19):
Was just coming to get a drink of water. Then
I found you here all alone.
Speaker 3 (07:23):
Tamar shook her head and chuckled.
Speaker 6 (07:25):
I am sorry, Amnon. I thought I was alone. I
did not hear you coming here. Let me pour you
some water.
Speaker 3 (07:33):
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
(07:55):
unless it was during family meals. Amnon, however, was a
slight except 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.
(08:19):
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
(08:40):
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 6 (08:51):
Well, it was lovely seeing you, brother. I will talk
to you tomorrow evening when we have our family meal.
Speaker 3 (08:57):
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.
(09:18):
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, Amnon still stared in her direction,
lost in his own fantasies. However, his crude thoughts were
(09:39):
interrupted when his friend Jonadab walked by.
Speaker 5 (09:41):
Oh there, my noble prince, Amnon.
Speaker 3 (09:44):
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 5 (10:05):
What troubles you, dear cousin? No more money to pay
for more women?
Speaker 3 (10:09):
Jonadab gave a boisterous laugh than nobody, but Amnon loved.
The prince, shook his head and gestured towards the palace.
Speaker 5 (10:18):
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 3 (10:27):
Jonadab asked, you can have your pick.
Speaker 5 (10:30):
Of the litter. Who on earth could you be pining after?
I am in love with Tamar, Absalom's sister.
Speaker 3 (10:38):
Amnon said, with a sigh. Johnadab laughed out loud, spitting
out some of the water he was.
Speaker 5 (10:43):
Sipping Absalom's sister. You mean your sister too, eh? You
mean to tell me you are in love with your
half sister?
Speaker 3 (10:52):
Jonadab jeered at Amnon and continued to mock him.
Speaker 5 (10:55):
And not just any of the dozens of half sisters,
but the one whose brother is a raging sound. Go pass.
Speaker 3 (11:01):
Amnon nodded his head and frowned.
Speaker 5 (11:03):
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 3 (11:18):
Her, Jonadab said, with a devious smile.
Speaker 5 (11:22):
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. Surely she would never think of
such a thing. If I asked, she would turn me.
Speaker 3 (11:37):
Away, am Non said, shaking his head. Jonadab gave a
wicked and almost serpent like gren.
Speaker 7 (11:43):
You don't need to ask, what, am.
Speaker 3 (11:47):
Non said, confused.
Speaker 5 (11:49):
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 3 (12:09):
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 Jonadab's plan. The next morning, am Non feigned illness.
He pretended to writhe in pain. In his bed, he
(12:31):
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 (12:41):
I haven't the slightest idea of father.
Speaker 3 (12:44):
Am Non said, faking a cough.
Speaker 5 (12:46):
I fear that this might pisy yet of me.
Speaker 3 (12:49):
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, a Non said, doing his
best to hold back a smile.
Speaker 5 (13:03):
Please let my sister Tamar come and make me a
couple of her homemade cakes. She is so talented in
how she prepares them. Perhaps they were life in my spirits.
Speaker 3 (13:13):
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
(13:36):
of her freshly baked cakes. She bowed her head and
smiled at him.
Speaker 6 (13:39):
How are you feeling, brother.
Speaker 3 (13:41):
She asked gently. Amnon's eyes were intense with avarice. His
hands trembled at the very sight of her. He could
barely contain his boiling hot desire for her.
Speaker 6 (13:51):
There he is staring again.
Speaker 3 (13:53):
Tamar thought to herself, I must be quick. Tamar faked
a smile and brought the pan to the bedside.
Speaker 6 (14:00):
I have brought you the cakes you requested. I hope
you like them. I have done something different to the dough.
Speaker 3 (14:06):
Amnon 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 (14:20):
You are sweet to bring me these.
Speaker 3 (14:21):
Dear sister, he whispered. He gently caressed her arm.
Speaker 5 (14:25):
You have always been so sweet and caring to me,
unlike the others.
Speaker 3 (14:30):
Tamar pulled her arm away and smirked uncomfortably.
Speaker 6 (14:34):
Your cakes, Amnon here. I shall leave them here at
your bed and you may get some rest.
Speaker 3 (14:40):
I do not want rest, am Non said, grabbing her hand.
Speaker 7 (14:44):
I want you.
Speaker 3 (14:45):
Tamar tried to pull away, but Amnon's grip became stronger.
Panic began to set in for her.
Speaker 6 (14:51):
What are you doing, she asked.
Speaker 3 (14:53):
Lie with me tomorrow, m Noon said, forcibly bringing her
in close.
Speaker 5 (14:58):
It can be just our secret.
Speaker 3 (15:00):
He brought his lips in close to kiss her, but
Tamar struggled to lean her head back.
Speaker 6 (15:05):
Please, Amnon, do not do this. If you violate me
like this, I will never get a husband.
Speaker 5 (15:11):
You think I care.
Speaker 3 (15:12):
About that, Amnon yelled.
Speaker 5 (15:14):
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.
Speaker 3 (15:26):
On mild Tamar pulled away and released herself from his grip.
Tears were welling up within her, but she tried to
remain strong.
Speaker 6 (15:34):
I'm not Please consider what you are.
Speaker 3 (15:36):
Doing, she said, while backing away from him. However, Amnon
was aggressively walking forward. It did not seem like any
words would save her if she continued saying, how.
Speaker 6 (15:47):
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 3 (15:56):
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 6 (16:06):
Please stop, Amnon.
Speaker 3 (16:07):
She yelled a please. 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
(16:31):
kicked her to the 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 Tamark for years. He had imagined what
their first evening would be like 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,
(16:55):
but he was too weak of a human being to
admit his mistake. Instead, he projected his inner hatred on too.
Speaker 5 (17:02):
Tamar, worthless, waste of my time.
Speaker 3 (17:05):
He sneered. Tamar did not look up. She remained on
the bed, weeping. Her silence 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, Ranada.
Speaker 6 (17:28):
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 3 (17:41):
Amnon sat up in the bed and leaned over. His
once longing and doting stare was replaced with complete animosity.
He hated her with more intensity than he had ever
loved her.
Speaker 5 (17:53):
And what makes you think I would care at all
about you? Now leave before I decide to have you
a second time.
Speaker 3 (18:00):
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
(18:20):
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 dam broke. Tears burst forth, and
she cried with great sorrow, so the entire house could
(18:43):
hear the moment. 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 hurt his sister
and rushed to her. He opened the door and found
her lying on the floor, with the rope ripped and
(19:04):
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
(19:26):
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.
(19:49):
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.
Speaker 7 (20:08):
How are you feeling, he asked.
Speaker 3 (20:11):
She shrugged. She did not have to say anything for
her brother to understand. Absalom nodded and asked, with a
straight face, was.
Speaker 7 (20:18):
This Amnon's doing?
Speaker 3 (20:20):
Yes, she said, whimpering. Absalom kissed her forehead and said.
Speaker 7 (20:25):
Hold your peace, my sister, be strong. I will take
care of you.
Speaker 3 (20:31):
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 anger. What he shouted,
The heir to my throne has raped my daughter. His
half sister, Absalom was in the room, along with two
(20:53):
more of his half brothers, Shalib and Jeremoth, sons of Abigail.
They watched their father paced 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.
(21:14):
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 this tongue regarding Amnon, Absalom did not
(21:37):
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
(21:58):
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
(22:21):
stars draped over Absalom's second home in Balhazor, 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,
(22:44):
Absalom 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 drew, the more foolish he became. The revelry continued,
and Amnon was pleased at how the evening was going.
(23:07):
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
barn door was Absalom and his servants. They waited outside,
(23:28):
talking amongst themselves. He encouraged his men, saying.
Speaker 7 (23:32):
Do not fear what may come. Man, be courageous and
be valiant.
Speaker 3 (23:37):
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 (23:47):
Absaloma, what are you doing here?
Speaker 3 (23:49):
He slurred. He looked around, confused.
Speaker 5 (23:53):
How did I find myself in here?
Speaker 3 (23:55):
Absalom squatted down to Amnon's level and looked him in
the eye.
Speaker 7 (23:59):
I had been waiting for this moment for two years, Amnon.
Speaker 3 (24:02):
He held up his dagger and pointed it at Amnon's throat.
The prince all of a sudden, found himself very sober.
Speaker 5 (24:10):
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 3 (24:21):
Quiet, Absalom said, in a calm voice.
Speaker 7 (24:25):
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 5 (24:36):
Would you really return my evil with evil?
Speaker 3 (24:39):
Amnon said nervously.
Speaker 5 (24:42):
What would father say if you knew you did this
to me?
Speaker 3 (24:45):
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 7 (24:57):
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, he talked
about punishing you, but he barely even spoke to you
about it.
Speaker 3 (25:13):
Absalom continued to laugh maniacally. Hanlon was more scared of
his smile than he was of his blade.
Speaker 5 (25:19):
Our father is weak, just like you.
Speaker 3 (25:22):
He said.
Speaker 7 (25:23):
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 praying that what happens tonight reaches his ears, because
(25:45):
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 (25:54):
Please, Absalom, let's talk about this.
Speaker 7 (25:57):
I can explain no explanation, nesss.
Speaker 3 (26:02):
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 7 (26:18):
Finally, a weight off my shoulders, he said.
Speaker 3 (26:23):
He turned to his servants and said.
Speaker 7 (26:25):
Tell my other brothers what I have done. I want
them to run in terror as well.
Speaker 3 (26:30):
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.
(26:53):
News had spread throughout Jerusalem that Absalom killed all of
David's sons. Many people were in an uproar, and when
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. Johnadab, Amnon's closest friend
(27:14):
and David's nephew, appeared. My king, He said, gleefully, you.
Speaker 5 (27:19):
Look as if you've lost all your heirs except the
one who killed them all.
Speaker 3 (27:22):
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 5 (27:34):
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 3 (27:45):
David peered up at the young man, confused. Jonadab shrugged
and smiled.
Speaker 5 (27:49):
I tell you the truth. Absalom has been planning his
revenge since the moment he found out about Tamar. He
wanted justice, and he got it.
Speaker 3 (27:59):
Jonadab clicked his heels and bowed to the king, then
gleefully left. 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
(28:20):
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
(28:43):
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 years. He waited in exile
for three years. David refused to send for his son
(29:05):
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
(29:25):
evening was the same, as predictable as the sun's setting,
was David's lament over his son Absalom. Joeb 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 8 (29:41):
My king, why do you not send for Absalom and.
Speaker 3 (29:44):
Reconcile, Joeb asked sternly.
Speaker 8 (29:46):
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.
Speaker 3 (29:54):
After all, what would I say? Job? 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
(30:16):
not 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
(30:37):
was 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 Teco. He walked the
(30:58):
streets 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 6 (31:15):
I am at your service, commander of the king. What
can I do for you?
Speaker 3 (31:19):
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. 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 from me. Job went on to explain
(31:41):
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 a fait edible to the citizens of Jerusalem.
(32:02):
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 6 (32:18):
Save me, O King, please save me.
Speaker 3 (32:22):
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 6 (32:30):
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 incessantly. So bad
was their quarreling that one of my sons killed the other.
Speaker 3 (32:50):
The woman paused to compose herself. If David did not
know any better, it seemed as though she was faking tears.
Speaker 6 (32:57):
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
(33:17):
protect me will be gone.
Speaker 3 (33:20):
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 6 (33:42):
My King, might I please implore of you and the
Lord to not punish my son. May he live to
take care of me.
Speaker 3 (33:50):
David paused and ponder 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 6 (34:09):
You, my kind and generous King. The Lord bless you
for your mercy.
Speaker 3 (34:15):
Then she peered up and smiled.
Speaker 6 (34:17):
Please, Lord, would you allow me to say one thing
to the King?
Speaker 3 (34:22):
Speak? David said, plainly, curious about what would happen next.
Speaker 6 (34:27):
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 up Salem home. You are a wise king
(34:47):
and able to discern good and evil. May you use
the same wisdom on yourself that you have on me
to day.
Speaker 3 (34:54):
The woman stood to her feet and bowed her head
and smiled.
Speaker 6 (34:57):
I have said my peace. Thank you for hearing me.
I shall be on my way.
Speaker 3 (35:03):
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,
(35:24):
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 Joab tell you to say these things,
he asked, The woman gulped and nodded. She gave a
(35:47):
nervous laugh.
Speaker 6 (35:47):
And said, ah, surely nothing gets past you, my king.
Joe Ab 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 3 (36:05):
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
(36:25):
for trying to manipulate the king. However, David's demeanor was unexpected.
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. Go and bring him back here to Jerusalem.
(36:47):
Joe Ab let out a sigh of relief. He was
sure that David was going to punish him. However, deep down,
David wanted Absalom back to Jerusalem. This was an excellent
excuse for him to allow him back. Joab bowed his
entire body before David and said.
Speaker 9 (37:03):
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 3 (37:14):
Joab arose and departed from Jerusalem to Gescher, where Ebsalom
and his family resided. The prince was coming home.
Speaker 4 (37:24):
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 has
snowballed into complete familial unrest. His multiple wives, neglect, scandal,
(37:47):
and absentee parenting has left his home in disarray. This
episode highlights the chaos caused 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
(38:10):
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. Emnn's sins were hideous and worthy of contempt.
(38:31):
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 children.
His inability to face his sons was the main source
of strife in this episode. He was unable to punish Emnen,
(38:53):
and he was unable to reconcile with Absolom. Both turned
out to end poorly. Here is another Trie 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.
(39:13):
Sometimes it means neglecting to do the right thing. David,
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
(39:34):
episode begs the question where is David and why does
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,
(39:57):
and most of the important plot lines involve his children.
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
(40:17):
were living their own lives apart from their father. For
all of 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 Joseah has this haunting verse that applies
(40:37):
to this situation. For they have sown the wind, and
they shall reap 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 in Joseah
tells us that those who put in no effort so
the wind will actually create chaos in their lives, reap
(41:01):
the world with 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
(41:24):
seems benign and ineffectual. 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 real
(41:45):
David is hibernating somewhere in a cave. David better figure
things out soon, because Absolom 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
(42:06):
us for episode twenty six, The Exiled Father. 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
(42:29):
get the newest episodes right now as they come out,
and always be inspired by the Bible. God bless
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