February 2, 2024 • 39 mins
Chapter 27 of Heroes in the Bible: David with Dr. Tony Evans is inspired by 2 Samuel 17-19.
Hanging on a Tree - Absalom rages against his father. However, he underestimates the faithfulness of his father’s men, and the strength of their loyalty.
Today's opening prayer is inspired by Psalm 71:21, Increase my honor and comfort me again.
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Episode Transcript
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Speaker 1 (00:00):
Increase my honor and comfort me again, Psalm seventy one
twenty one. God, I thank you for your love for
me to day. I thank you for your hand leading me.
I thank you for your Holy Spirit guiding me as
I reach for higher and greater things. In your name, Jesus,
(00:23):
everything I do to day is to glorify you. Let
every person who sees me be inspired themselves to reach
for more of what you have for them, more of
what you have called them to for your glory. I
command anything within me that wants to play it safe
(00:44):
or desires things to be easy, to leave my heart,
my mind, my life. Right now, I don't want anything
less than your best for me. Faith is the word
that will direct and define my day because I am
reaching for the increase that you've promised me. God, I
(01:06):
praise you for building me up on the inside so
that nothing I face on the outside can tear me down.
Continue to strengthen me today. Bring breakthroughs in every area
of my life mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Bring breakthroughs
in my work, in my relationships, and in my family
(01:30):
where I am weary or discouraged, where I've been hurt
or wounded, I ask you to comfort me, heal me
inside and out. Surround me once again with your unfailing love.
Draw close to me as I draw close to you
(01:52):
in Jesus name.
Speaker 2 (01:55):
Damen.
Speaker 1 (01:56):
Stay tuned to immerse yourself in the greatest story glory
is ever told. From prey dot COM's podcast, Heroes in
the Bible.
Speaker 3 (02:06):
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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(02:27):
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Speaker 4 (02:46):
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 on Spotify so
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,
(03:07):
and murder. While most people know of David the myth,
few know about David the man. In this episode, father
and son are pitted against each other. Absolom's hostile takeover
of Israel cannot be complete until David is dead. Absolom
has more resources than mercenaries at his disposal, but David
has his mighty men. This episode is about many things,
(03:30):
but more than anything, it is a tribute to the
warriors who have stuck by his side for so long.
The Bible has given us many insight into these warriors,
and we have done our best to give them the
honor they deserve. This episode focuses on them, especially since
David is unable to go into battle himself. David has
many allies on his side, and that is ultimately what
(03:52):
will turn the tide of the battle. Absolom, as intelligent
as he is, will find himself sorely lacking in wisdom.
Before the story continues, we will listen to a prelude.
We are once again brought into a moment during Jesus's life. Judas,
one of Christ's closest friends, gives him up for thirty
(04:13):
pieces of silver, a cheap price for the god of
all creation. The guilt from his act drives Judas mad,
and he meets an undignified demise. His death is a
foreshadowing of another death in this episode. Who it is
you might have already guessed, but David may have other plans.
Join us for episode twenty seven. Hanging on a.
Speaker 2 (04:35):
Tree prelude to chapter twenty seven. Standing at a distance
was Judas. He looked down at his thirty pieces of silver.
They didn't feel right in his hands. They trembled, and
he put the pouch back in his cloak. A tinge
(04:56):
of regrets sparked in Judas as he wants Jesus tumble
down the temple steps. He watched them bind Jesus, strike him,
and throw him around like a dollar. His stomach churned
as he listened to the painful grunts of his master.
Memories of Jesus healing the sick and restoring sight to
the blind flooded Judas's mind. It was unbearable to think
(05:18):
of Jesus being put to death because of him. He
banged on his head and began to cry in anxious red.
He yelled and ran towards the temple courtroom. He burst
through the doors and threw the money bag back at Caiaphas. Please,
he yelled, take your money, take it.
Speaker 5 (05:36):
I do not want.
Speaker 2 (05:36):
Jesus to suffer. Caiaphas chuckled. What am I to do
with this? He asked, what's done is done. Judas frantically
shook his head. Nervous tears filled his eyes.
Speaker 1 (05:48):
No, no, no, no, he yelled.
Speaker 6 (05:50):
I did not know he would be put to death.
Speaker 7 (05:53):
I have sinned and betrayed innocent blood.
Speaker 2 (05:56):
Judas fell to his knees, begging Caiaphas to reconsider. The
high priest scoffed, Get up, you're an embarrassment. Take your
money and be in peace. A worker is worth his wages.
With that, Judas was escorted out of the temple walls.
Judas was thrown onto the floor. He lay there for
(06:18):
a long while, his eyes were blanketed with regret. He
rose to his feet, sweat, tears and blood dripped down
his cheeks. Judas hobbled his way towards an olive tree.
He looked up the clouds above were thrashing, ready to burst.
Judas shook his head. His eyes were blazed over as
(06:40):
he threw a nearby rope up onto the tree. He
climbed it, tied a noose around his neck, and jumped
off the branch. The rope tightened and Judas's body flailed
for a long moment. The sound of tightening rope and
rust and leaves cut through the silence of the early morning. Then,
as the sun rose, Judas breathed his last breath Chapter
(07:07):
twenty seven. Hanging on a tree. Chariots of bronze burst
through the palace gates, trampling the well tended garden underfoot.
The chanting of Absalom's name grew louder and louder. As
he dismounted his horse, he turned to the people who
had followed behind him and waved King Absy, he whispered
(07:27):
to himself. He shook his head and.
Speaker 8 (07:30):
Laughed, what a great king I will be.
Speaker 2 (07:33):
He walked into the palace with a hithafel close behind him.
Speaker 8 (07:37):
Gather any of the remaining advisers of the king. He ordered,
I would like to begin my reign as soon as possible.
Speaker 2 (07:44):
A hithafel gathered the men who were close to David
but refrained from following him into the wilderness. Among them
was Hashai, fresh from the Mount of Olives, where he
was commissioned by David to sow discord. Hashai entered into
the throne room of the king, ready to do the
dirty work of politics. He never thought he had a
knack for lying in deception. It was one of the
(08:06):
qualities that made David trust him so much. However, in
this moment, deception was required. He would do his best
to undermine Absalom and a Hithafal in their attempt to
overthrow the kingdom. David's reign in Israel hung in the balance.
The Shai entered and raised his arms to Absalom.
Speaker 9 (08:25):
Long live the King, Long live the King, Long live
the King.
Speaker 2 (08:32):
He shouted and clapped. Absalom cocked his head to the
side and peered at a Shi.
Speaker 8 (08:38):
Hushai, is this the type of loyalty you give your
friend David? I know how close you two were. Why
did you not retreat with him into the wilderness.
Speaker 2 (08:49):
Hushai paused for a moment, remembering that he was not
very good at lying. He smiled and opened his palms.
Speaker 9 (08:55):
Good Absalom, my loyalty is to the king that the
lord and people use. It is clear to me they
have chosen you. So here I am at your service,
just as I was for your father.
Speaker 2 (09:08):
Hashai's lies seemed to satisfy Absalom. He was too prideful
to inquire further.
Speaker 8 (09:13):
Very well, then, he said, we shall now discuss how
to establish me as king over the people. Perhaps a
show of force, what will make the people know I
am king?
Speaker 2 (09:24):
A gesture to a hithefel, What say you, counselor a hithefel,
bowed his head and furrowed his brow.
Speaker 10 (09:30):
You must make your dominance over your father known to
all the people, he said. Showcase your power by going
into your father's concubines, ravage them, and make it known
to all the people that David is a stench and
you alone own the city.
Speaker 2 (09:46):
Absalom, being the egotistical psychopath that he was, loved the idea.
They've pitched a tent on the roof of the palace,
and one by one Absalom went into all ten of
his father's concubines. The entire nation of Israel heard about
what he was doing and immediately began to question the
validity of what was happening. Only minutes into being King
(10:07):
Absalom made his first mistake, and Hushai planned how he
might continue those mistakes. Meanwhile, deep in the forests, resting
on the mount of Olives, David rose from his place
of prayer. He had sang a hymn of desperation and
trust in God. He knew, beyond a shadow of a
doubt that he would be taken care of. All he
(10:28):
had to do. Was remained righteous and willing to act
when called upon. The king led his people down the
other side of the mountain. As they were leaving the summit,
he heard a rustling in the bushes. Shama, Abishai and
David all unsheathed their swords and prepared for a fight.
From the bushes, a stone came flying out and hit
Abhishi directly in the stomach. He keeled back and gasped.
(10:53):
A man came out shouting at them. It was Shimiai,
a member of Sal's family.
Speaker 9 (10:58):
Get out o here, ye men of blood. You are worthless.
You never measured up to King Saul. The Lord is
punishing you for the blood of Saul. This is what
you deserve. You men of blood. Shame on you.
Speaker 2 (11:12):
Abishi rose to his feet and grabbed his sword.
Speaker 10 (11:16):
You shall not speak to my king like that.
Speaker 2 (11:18):
He shouted, and he darted towards Shimiai. However, David ran
after him and held him back. Abshi turned around.
Speaker 10 (11:25):
What are you doing? Let me go over there and
take off his head. Why should this dead dog curse
you like this?
Speaker 5 (11:32):
Let it go, Abishai? David side, he is not worth
the trouble. Besides, perhaps his words are from the Lord.
Speaker 10 (11:40):
What are you talking about, David?
Speaker 2 (11:42):
Of course they aren't, Abishi exclaimed, he is.
Speaker 10 (11:44):
A bitter old fool and should be punished.
Speaker 2 (11:47):
As Abeshi was saying this, shimi I continued to throw
stones and mud at them. David covered his head from
the stones and said.
Speaker 5 (11:55):
My own son wants me dead. What could this man
possibly say to make me feel worse than I do?
Speaker 2 (12:01):
Now leave him alone.
Speaker 5 (12:04):
If his words are from God, then I deserved him.
If he is sinning, then God will punish. Either way,
God would not be happy if I lash out at him.
Why would I return.
Speaker 2 (12:18):
Evil for evil? David began to walk away, but shimi
I was persisting. He threw stones, mud and sticks at David.
His men did their best to shield him, but were
unable to block the pile of cow dung he threw
with David's head. It hit him in the side of
the face, and David stumbled to his knees. It was
truly a low point for the king. He was mocked, cursed,
(12:41):
and had dung on his face. The king stood to
his feet in dignity and pressed on. They camped beside
the Jordan River and refreshed themselves. David sang songs of
hope to encourage the people. Absalom tapped his fingers on
the throne and stared deeply into the fire. His gaze
was intense, and he was lost in deep thought. Absalom
(13:04):
was a patient man, consumed with every detail of his coup.
The final obstacle of his reign as king was David himself.
He needed him dead. A Hithefel and a shy were
both standing at attention behind the throne. Hashin noticed a
Hithethel's eyes. They were intensely fixed on Absalom, like a
dog waiting for a bone. There was something strange about
(13:27):
a Hithefel. He was not well and clearly obsessed with
pleasing the new king, Ashin knew there was room to
cause chaos among the two of them. He just needed
to use his words very carefully. A Hithephel Absalom said.
The councilor was quick to move in front of the
throne and bow his head.
Speaker 8 (13:45):
What are your thoughts about what we should do next?
Shall we hunt for David or send assassins?
Speaker 2 (13:51):
A showing of.
Speaker 10 (13:52):
Strength is best, my lord, A Hithafel said, let me
choose twelve thousand men to pursue David. He is less
than a thousand with him, and less of them are warriors.
We will overwhelm them with few casualties and focus on
killing David alone. Once he is slain, then the people
are bound to follow us.
Speaker 2 (14:10):
A Hithefel knelt down to the king and said.
Speaker 10 (14:12):
Allow me to bring the people back to you like
a bride comes to her husband.
Speaker 2 (14:17):
Absalom seemed to like his idea. A showing of strength
would establish him over David. It would be satisfying to
march against him with twelve thousand men behind him. He
wanted to prove to his father that he could lead
such an army. Absalom turned to Hashai and beckoned him forward.
Speaker 8 (14:35):
What say you, Hashai, Do you agree with the Hithephel.
Shall we march up against David?
Speaker 2 (14:41):
Hashai looked at a Hithefel, and then back at Absalom.
Speaker 9 (14:44):
A Hithaphel is a wise man, but I believe this
time he is wrong, blatantly and clearly wrong.
Speaker 2 (14:51):
A Hithafel's upper lip twitched into a brief snarl.
Speaker 10 (14:54):
Do you not find the king strong enough to defeat
David with twelve thousand men behind him?
Speaker 2 (15:00):
A Hitthethal scoffed. Hashai shook his head. It's not that,
my king, I swear.
Speaker 9 (15:06):
However, you should know very well your father is surrounded
by his mighty men. Six hundred of them have toppled
over forty thousand easily. They are strong, good tacticians, experience,
and now you have provoked them like a mother bear
robbed of her cubs. It does not seem to me
a wise decision to simply march against them and expect
(15:28):
to win.
Speaker 10 (15:29):
What if we surprise.
Speaker 2 (15:31):
Them, a Hitthefel said, they will need to rest.
Speaker 10 (15:34):
What if we attacked them in the middle.
Speaker 2 (15:36):
Of the night. Hushai shook his head again.
Speaker 9 (15:38):
You clearly have not met King David do you really
think he would sleep among the people. No, he will
camp elsewhere to protect the people from harm. All you
will accomplish is attacking innocent people and being called a
murderer of fellow Israelites.
Speaker 2 (15:55):
Absalom was annoyed, but knew Hushai was correct. If a
Shi could sense the tension between him, Absalom and a Hithaval,
he breathed in deeply and thought for a moment. Perhaps
he began.
Speaker 9 (16:09):
We should meet them at a neutral battlefield, one in
which we can get a clear vantage point of David.
We increase our efforts if we can target David specifically.
Speaker 2 (16:18):
The Shai could tell that his answers were not satisfying Absalom,
so he appealed to his ego, saying.
Speaker 9 (16:24):
I have no doubt that you will be able to
rally the men of Israel behind you. March up against
David and face him yourself. If for some reason he
gets past you and into the city, all Israel will
bring ropes and we shall drag him into the valley
until not even a pebble is to be found there.
Speaker 2 (16:42):
That final word stirred Absalom, and he was pleased with
a Shai very well Absalom said, we shall march.
Speaker 8 (16:49):
We will gather men and meet David and his band
of old dogs, and the entire world shall know that
I am the great King of Israel.
Speaker 2 (17:00):
So Absalom rose from his throne to go and prepare,
leaving Hashai and a Hithefel alone. The two of them
stood there, staring at one another for a long time.
A Hithefel knew who Shai was up to something, but
could not prove it. Hashai could see the unbalanced psyche
of a Hithefel begin to teeter away. He was shaking
(17:20):
and nervous. Finally, Hashai spoke, saying, it is time to
prepare the man. A Hitthefel, you should be following the king.
A Hithefel said nothing. He left, and Hashai rushed to
go send word to David. He went to have Biethar
and Zaduk, telling them all that was happening.
Speaker 9 (17:39):
You must warn David not to rest in the warpath
of Absalom. If he is anywhere near the Jorda River,
he must escape now if his people want to live.
Speaker 2 (17:49):
Jonathan and Ahimaas left to send the message to David
on behalf of their fathers. They ran into the night
like cats, scurrying through the streets without making a noise. However,
there were some who were aware of their mission. A
young man had seen them leaving the city and sent
word to Absalom's guards. They left on horseback in pursuit
of the young priests. Jonathan and Ahimaaz ran for their lives,
(18:12):
cutting corners and hopping over barrels of wine and grain.
The chase was frantic, and the two men felt like
they were moments away from being captured. They turned the
corner to their rendezvous point with another woman messenger. She
was standing by the well waiting for them. Instead of
greeting her, the two young men leaped forward and jumped
(18:32):
into the well. When the woman saw the guards riding,
she quickly lifted the large tarp covering and draped it
over the mouth of the well. The guards slid to
a stop and yellop, where did they go?
Speaker 5 (18:45):
Where are Jonathan and Ahimeas?
Speaker 2 (18:48):
The woman didn't flinch. She pointed south and said they.
Speaker 6 (18:51):
Jumped into the brook and followed it downstream. I think
they were heading outside of the city, she said.
Speaker 2 (18:57):
The guards wasted no time. All of the brook down
for miles, searching desperately for the young men. When they
found nothing, they rode back into the city and searched
for them. There the woman uncovered the well. The two
young priests burst out of the water and gasped for her.
Speaker 7 (19:14):
You must leave now, the.
Speaker 2 (19:15):
Woman said, I may be back. So the two men
ran into the night, sopping wet and filled with purpose.
The silvery moon hung over David's camp like a watchman.
Its silvery light shone down on them. Bouncing off the
water of the Jordan River, David washed his face in
the cool water, wiping off the last of the dung.
(19:37):
He sighed and looked up at the moon. It seemed
closer than usual, as if the eye of God was
bending down closer to keep a close watch. David shook
his head and chuckled. He wished Jonathan was here. He
longed to hear his wisdom on what he should do next.
He could not run forever. Eventually, he knew they would
have to fight. As the thought of fighting crossed his mind,
(20:00):
he wondered where Joab was. Perhaps he too has abandoned me,
David thought to himself, I am no longer a man
worth following. The king had a sinking feeling that he
was being punished for his sins. Nathan had prophesied that
bloodshed would never leave his house. This seemed like a
reasonable fulfillment of that prophecy. He looked back at the camp.
(20:24):
Most of the people had retreated into their tents for
the night. He still could not believe all his mighty
men and hundreds of his servants had followed him into
the wilderness. He did not find himself worthy of their loyalty,
but he would do his very best to protect them.
They were his sheep, and he was their shepherd. David
caught a glimpse of his son, Solomon, being carried into
(20:45):
the tent with his mother. He jogged over to them
and gave his son a kiss on the forehead. He
tucked both of the men and sang a hymn as
they drifted asleep. He stroked Solomon's hair and wondered what
would become of him. You are special, little one, David whispered,
I wonder what would become of you. The king left
(21:09):
the tent and sat down beside the fire. Abeshai, Shamah, Eliezar,
and Attai were already gathered around. The five of them
spoke for a long while about the next steps. They bickered, laughed,
and cried. It was just like old times in the wilderness.
God was still their leader, and they trusted the Lord
for his intervention. As the night was growing cold and
(21:31):
the men were ready to retreat into their tents, a
stirring was caused among the camp. The two young priests
had finally arrived with word from Hashai. Absalom is marching.
They shouted, you must arise and go quickly over the water,
for Absalom and the others will be here within the
next few days.
Speaker 5 (21:50):
Where do they expect us to battle?
Speaker 7 (21:52):
David asked Gilead David, they are sending many men to
fight against you. Absalom will not relent until he he
has you in his grasp.
Speaker 2 (22:01):
David nodded and dismissed the men to return home. He
slept that night, and first thing in the morning he
gathered all the people to cross the Jordan. Once again,
David found himself wading through the river, unsure. Above the
next steps, a Hithafel watched Absalom leave with his army
(22:22):
to Gilead. Instead of appointing him as commander or Joe
ab As commander. He appointed Amasa, a boy and a brute.
A Hithafel had finally come to a breaking point. He
had stewed in anger against David for so long that
he was too quick to jump to Absalom's side. Now
he was a man without a king. He betrayed David,
(22:43):
and Absalom preferred the Council of Hashai over him. His
hands trembled and his cheeks were red with rage. He
took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and left to
return home. He set his house in order, tied a
noose to the top of his home, and hung himself.
His body hung there, lifeless, as a symbol of the
sad and sorry state of Israel, a nation without a king.
(23:09):
A storm was approaching. The wind howled from the east,
and David wrapped his cloak around him tightly as he
and his men marched forward. Absalom had crossed the Jordan River,
encamped at the forest of a freeham beside a large valley. David,
Ittai and Abeshi climbed a small hill to get a
better view of the battlefield. It was rough and wide ground.
(23:31):
If they were to fight there, it would not be
easy Absalom's men outnumbered David's five to one. An open
field would give the advantage to the army. With more men,
we can take the fight straight to the forest, David said.
If we take today to march around the valley, we
can meet them on the other side of the forest
of Ephriam.
Speaker 10 (23:51):
It would certainly narrow the battle to a more manageable size.
Speaker 2 (23:54):
Ittai agreed, However, I.
Speaker 10 (23:56):
Would still feel more comfortable if we had more men.
Speaker 7 (24:00):
Than more men you shall get.
Speaker 2 (24:02):
A voice called out from behind them. David and Abshi
looked over and behind them was Joab leading hundreds of soldiers.
He opened his arms up and smiled.
Speaker 7 (24:12):
You did not think I joined the ranks of Absalom,
did you?
Speaker 2 (24:15):
He burnt my fields. David laughed and embraced his friend.
The four of them discussed the situation and all arrived
at the same conclusion they had the best chance attacking
in the forest. David gathered the men together and began
to map out the battle.
Speaker 5 (24:31):
Abashi, you will take a third of the men and
attack first. Itai will take a third of the attack
from the flank. Joe Ab, you will take the last
third and ambush them. Once the battle has been initiated.
I will march with Abashi at the front. I desire
to face Absalom myself and bring him back with me.
(24:51):
Any questions, The three others looked at each other with
concerned looks on their faces. What is wrong, David asked.
Joab answered and said.
Speaker 7 (25:01):
My king, this is a battle. You should not march
into what No, I.
Speaker 2 (25:07):
Must go with you.
Speaker 5 (25:08):
It is my dutiest king, and I will not abandon
you like I did in Amon.
Speaker 2 (25:13):
This is different. It's I protested.
Speaker 10 (25:15):
If you are there, they will not relent until you
are captured. However, if you are absent, it gives us
the option to retreat. They do not care about us.
They only care about you.
Speaker 2 (25:28):
Joe have placed a hand on David's shoulder.
Speaker 7 (25:30):
I would not want to fight against my own son.
If the moment came when I had to slay him
for the good of the nation, I am not sure
I would have the strength. So I will spare you
from that decision. You should defend the city nearby with
a group of mighty men. If we need to retreat,
we will flee into the nearby city and you can
help us escape.
Speaker 2 (25:50):
David paused for a long while he sighed and looked
out over the horizon. Again, his son was camped near
the forest, probably strategizing with his own men on how
to slay him. It hurt him deeply that he had
to march against his own son. He understood the point
his men made and did not argue. He lifted his
hand in surrender and said, whatever seems best to you,
(26:13):
I will do so. The king took reinforcements to the
border of Gilead. Near the gate, he ordered and placed
Joe ab abshi in Ittai in the proper formations and
sent them off. However, before they left, David stopped them
and said, please deal gently with Absolom for my sake.
(26:34):
Bring him home alive if possible. They nodded and departed
for the forest. The storm above continued to pick up speed,
and the blustering wind howled through the woods like a
pack of ravenous wolves. The clouds blocked out the sun,
and the woods remained in darkness. Scouts from the camp
of Israel sent word to Absalom that David's men were
(26:56):
marching from behind them, so he rallied his men to
absorb the at They pressed forward into the forest, listening
for David's men. Absalom had marched with joe ab before
when doing raids of smaller nations. However, he was not
aware of the full strength of David's mighty men. Legends
of their power were more of a fantasy to him
than reality. He was gravely mistaken. The first attack was
(27:20):
from Abashi. Behind him were Eliezar, Shama and Joshubin. They
attacked with the same speed as the wind above them.
Absalom throwed his brow and lifted his sword. He commanded
the combined remnants of Israel's army with Absalom's mercenaries ran
forward and clashed with abashink Shama ran ahead with his sword.
(27:44):
He dodged the initial attacks, slashing men of the ankles
as he went. His sword was an extension of his
own body, and was with it. He once killed an
entire army of Philistines on his own, overtecting a venterfield.
Joshuabin was not far. He ran gracefully with his spear
in his head. Every man who came up against him
(28:05):
was met with the tip of the spear loshed over
their throat to chest. His speed was unmatched, and the
grace with which he yielded, his weapon was uncarable. It
is what earned him the place of captain, and how
he once killed eight hundred men all by himself. Elizar
held out over his ground until more enemies stepped forward.
(28:25):
Dozens launched themselves at him, only to perish immediately. Elizar's
starting to sense strength earned him the trust of King David.
He once bought with David for so long that his
sword stuck to his hands. Absalom panicked as he watched
David's mighty men fight. They were more ferocious than lions
and quicker than hans. He was beginning to feel the
(28:47):
full weight of just how strong they were. He turned
back to retreat back into the forest, but hit time
was already attacking at the flag. They gave Absalom no
choice but to fight. If he wanted to throw, he
would have to spill blood on the battlefield, just as
David did. So. Absalom rode forward on his horse, slashing
(29:07):
through opponents and leaning on his training. Joe ab was
not far behind with his men when he finally entered.
That was Absalom's signal to flee. He whipped his horse
and rode as fast as he could. The tree covering
became shorter and shorter as the horse rode under the
thick branches. Absalom slashed through the branches with his sword,
(29:27):
frantically trying to escape. He could hear the clamoring of
soldiers in pursuit behind him. He yelled in fear and
whipped his horse even more to pick up speed. The
great oaks covered the skies and the branches intertwined with
one another above him, The covering became lower and lower,
until finally Absalom rode fast as the two branches, getting
(29:49):
his head caught between them. The force crushed his throat
and the horse continued to ride forward, leaving the prints
hanging by his neck in the air. He gasped struggled
to free himself, but his neck was lodged deep into
the oak. One of the soldiers saw Absalom struggling to
get free and ran to tell Joe.
Speaker 6 (30:08):
Ab whi Joe ab Absalom is hanging from a tree.
Speaker 2 (30:12):
Joab took the man by the collar and yelled.
Speaker 7 (30:14):
You saw him hanging there, and you did not strike
him down to the ground. I would have given you
ten pieces of silver if you killed him.
Speaker 2 (30:21):
The soldier panicked and said.
Speaker 6 (30:23):
But King David said, doctor Harmon, even if you offered
me a thousand pieces of silver, I would not dare
kill the king's son.
Speaker 2 (30:32):
Joe Ab scoffed and grabbed three spears and marched into
the forest. The wind mettled through the forest, nearly knocking
the young soldier off his feet. However, Joeab marched forward unhindered.
Hanging in the oak covering above was Absalom. He was
gasping for air and trying to break himself free. Joe
Ab stood below him.
Speaker 7 (30:53):
And called out to him, your majesty.
Speaker 2 (30:56):
Absalom looked below, unable to say anything. Joab took his
first spear and gripped it. He swung it around a
few times, then threw it upwards, going through Absalom's shoulder.
The tip of the spear went straight through him, breaking
off the branch that held him. He fell to the
ground hard. Absalom took a deep breath, finally able to breathe,
(31:18):
but in pain from the spear in his shoulder. He
stood and tried to run, but Joab threw the other spear.
It was a direct hit through his back and out
through the left side of his stomach. Absalom cried out
in intense pain, shaking on the floor. Joab rolled his
neck back and drew a deep breath. You want to
know something, he said to the screaming man on the ground.
Speaker 7 (31:40):
After all this, your father still wanted me to spare you.
Speaker 2 (31:46):
Absalom held out his arm and crawled backwards away from
joe An. Please, he coughed, a mercy.
Speaker 7 (31:54):
You received your mercy, Absalom. Your father gave it twice.
I will not let him give it a third time.
Speaker 2 (32:03):
Joab took his third spear and drove it through absalom stand.
He looked at the life slowly fading away from Absalom's eyes.
He let go of his spear and allowed the other
men to take turns stamping him. The tyrant prince was dead,
and along with him the coup. Joab had finished him off.
Despite David's orders to spare him. A rebellion was ended
(32:27):
by another act of rebellion. The irony did not escape Joab.
He took Absalom's body and threw him into a great
pit in the forest. A heap of stones were thrown
over his body as a memorial to him. Joab looked
at the entire army of Israel that had fought with Absalom.
The men he once led stood before him in shame.
(32:48):
Back to your homes, he shouted. Every man left to
return to Jerusalem. Joab stood over the pile of stones.
The clouds above were thrashing, ready to burst. A reign
was coming soon. Joe Ab spat at the stones.
Speaker 7 (33:04):
Long live the king.
Speaker 2 (33:07):
He said. He and his men returned to the king,
ready to restore peace back to God's people.
Speaker 4 (33:18):
King Absalom's reign was quick. His rise was dramatic and fierce,
and his fall was disgraceful and gory. If we were
to just look at Saul and Absolute lives, it would
send a clear message that kings are doomed to fall.
When you read First and Second Kings, you get a
similar message. Many of the kings after David rose quickly
(33:39):
forgot their purpose and fell dramatically. Just a few episodes ago,
we thought David might share the same fate, but he didn't.
What sets David apart from these other kings? What set
David apart from the kings of the ancient world who
conquered and then were conquered. We can go back to
the beginning for that answer. In episode Ode three, Samuel
(34:01):
tells Saul about his chosen king. The Lord has sought
out another to replace you. He has sought out a
man who is after his own heart. He has sought
out a man who cares more about pleasing the heart
of God than looking for the approval of man. This
king shall be prince over the Lord's people. He shall
steward God's people well, and it will be his kingdom
(34:23):
that continues into eternity. Even in his failures, wanderings, and missteps.
David comes back to the Lord every time he seeks
after his heart, and faithfulness of God is his safety net.
He is a refuge and strength for him. No matter
how far David falls, God lifts him back up. God's
(34:43):
relationship to David is a symbol of his relationship with Israel.
Time after time, Israel fails, but when they cry out
to him, he is faithful to respond. He keeps his
promises to them. God is faithful even when David isn't
absolute naturally doing everything without God, the pride of the
throne that corrupted Saul's heart made quick work of Absolom.
(35:07):
Not even minutes into being king does he have a
horrendous failure. He ravages his father's harem, subjugates the people,
and marches to go fight the mighty men. Absolom, a
man of wit, lost all of his sensibilities when he
became king. Pride tends to cancel out whatever our gifts are.
Absolom was a smart man, but that was no room
(35:28):
for so but thinking when pride occupied his mind. Think
about some of the gifts you have. Think about how
much more useful they would be without any pride or arrogance.
Hooper's stains our ambitions, but humility makes them clean. David
proved once again to be a humble man. An angry
man came out of the forest and threw stones and
(35:49):
dung at him, but David remained calm. David and Absalom
are contrasted in this episode. While Absolom demanded respect, David
allowed dung to be thrown at him. David needs to
show even more humility when it is time to march
in a battle. He wants to ride with his men,
but they all agree it's best for him to stay back.
(36:10):
Think about how hard this must have been for David.
Not only does he need to sit on his hands,
while his brothers fight, he will not be able to
protect Absolom from being killed. Even though David is the king,
he submits to the advice of his men. This is
a growing moment for David, who in the last episodes
refused to take counsel. Joe ab and the Mighty Men
(36:30):
marched against Absolom, and the tide of the battle quickly
shifts in their favor. What did Absolom expect? Pride clouded
his better judgment. He should have known he was no
match for his father's finest warriors. The episode ends with
Absolom running for his life, then getting his neck caught
between two intersecting branches. It's a horrific image that gets
(36:54):
even worse when joeb arrives. The commander of David's army
doesn't spare Absolom, and we are left wondering if he
made the right call.
Speaker 2 (37:02):
David had a.
Speaker 4 (37:03):
Tendency to show mercy when judgment may have been more appropriate,
especially when it came to his sons, but is rebellion
away to squash a rebellion, Joe ib recognized the irony himself.
This leads us to consider a few questions. Do too
wrong sometimes make a right. Do the end sometimes justify
the means. We are told exactly what the answers to
(37:26):
those questions are, but we are invited to wrestle with them.
Joe Ab robed Absolom the chance to change his ways
and Joe AB's words, you received your mercy, Absolom. Your
father gave it twice. I will not let him give
it a third time. Odds are Absolom wouldn't have truly changed.
But was that Joe AB's call to me? We will
(37:47):
leave the question open for now and see how Joe
Ab and David's relationship evolved in our next episode. Absolom
hung from a tree, disgraced as a traitor, but David
still loved him till the end. This brings us back
to the prelude. Judas is the one who sold Jesus out,
also hung from a tree. He betrayed him and gave
(38:07):
him up to be killed, but Jesus loved him till
the end. And John thirteen, we're told that Jesus washed
all his disciples feet. He served every single one of them,
including Judas, who hours later sold him for thirty pieces
of silver. Judas's actions did not change Jesus's love for him,
just like Absalom's actions did not change David's love for him.
(38:28):
Know this, brothers and sisters, no matter what you have done,
on how far you strayed, God still loves you. Jesus's
love is greater than your sin. Even in our rebellion,
God still begs for us to come back to him.
In our next episode, David continues to mourn the loss
of his son. His tender heart is put on display,
but it may be time for David to seize his
(38:49):
tears and steady his grip. What Absalom started is not over.
Join us for episode twenty eight, The Rebellion of Sheba.
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.
(39:13):
Forward slash Heroes. Follow the podcast on Apple or Spotify
to get the newest episodes right as they come out,
and always be inspired by the Bible. God bless
Increase my honor and comfort me again, Psalm seventy one
twenty one. God, I thank you for your love for
me to day. I thank you for your hand leading me.
I thank you for your Holy Spirit guiding me as
I reach for higher and greater things. In your name, Jesus,
(00:23):
everything I do to day is to glorify you. Let
every person who sees me be inspired themselves to reach
for more of what you have for them, more of
what you have called them to for your glory. I
command anything within me that wants to play it safe
(00:44):
or desires things to be easy, to leave my heart,
my mind, my life. Right now, I don't want anything
less than your best for me. Faith is the word
that will direct and define my day because I am
reaching for the increase that you've promised me. God, I
(01:06):
praise you for building me up on the inside so
that nothing I face on the outside can tear me down.
Continue to strengthen me today. Bring breakthroughs in every area
of my life mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Bring breakthroughs
in my work, in my relationships, and in my family
(01:30):
where I am weary or discouraged, where I've been hurt
or wounded, I ask you to comfort me, heal me
inside and out. Surround me once again with your unfailing love.
Draw close to me as I draw close to you
(01:52):
in Jesus name.
Speaker 2 (01:55):
Damen.
Speaker 1 (01:56):
Stay tuned to immerse yourself in the greatest story glory
is ever told. From prey dot COM's podcast, Heroes in
the Bible.
Speaker 3 (02:06):
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.
(02:27):
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 4 (02:46):
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 on Spotify so
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,
(03:07):
and murder. While most people know of David the myth,
few know about David the man. In this episode, father
and son are pitted against each other. Absolom's hostile takeover
of Israel cannot be complete until David is dead. Absolom
has more resources than mercenaries at his disposal, but David
has his mighty men. This episode is about many things,
(03:30):
but more than anything, it is a tribute to the
warriors who have stuck by his side for so long.
The Bible has given us many insight into these warriors,
and we have done our best to give them the
honor they deserve. This episode focuses on them, especially since
David is unable to go into battle himself. David has
many allies on his side, and that is ultimately what
(03:52):
will turn the tide of the battle. Absolom, as intelligent
as he is, will find himself sorely lacking in wisdom.
Before the story continues, we will listen to a prelude.
We are once again brought into a moment during Jesus's life. Judas,
one of Christ's closest friends, gives him up for thirty
(04:13):
pieces of silver, a cheap price for the god of
all creation. The guilt from his act drives Judas mad,
and he meets an undignified demise. His death is a
foreshadowing of another death in this episode. Who it is
you might have already guessed, but David may have other plans.
Join us for episode twenty seven. Hanging on a.
Speaker 2 (04:35):
Tree prelude to chapter twenty seven. Standing at a distance
was Judas. He looked down at his thirty pieces of silver.
They didn't feel right in his hands. They trembled, and
he put the pouch back in his cloak. A tinge
(04:56):
of regrets sparked in Judas as he wants Jesus tumble
down the temple steps. He watched them bind Jesus, strike him,
and throw him around like a dollar. His stomach churned
as he listened to the painful grunts of his master.
Memories of Jesus healing the sick and restoring sight to
the blind flooded Judas's mind. It was unbearable to think
(05:18):
of Jesus being put to death because of him. He
banged on his head and began to cry in anxious red.
He yelled and ran towards the temple courtroom. He burst
through the doors and threw the money bag back at Caiaphas. Please,
he yelled, take your money, take it.
Speaker 5 (05:36):
I do not want.
Speaker 2 (05:36):
Jesus to suffer. Caiaphas chuckled. What am I to do
with this? He asked, what's done is done. Judas frantically
shook his head. Nervous tears filled his eyes.
Speaker 1 (05:48):
No, no, no, no, he yelled.
Speaker 6 (05:50):
I did not know he would be put to death.
Speaker 7 (05:53):
I have sinned and betrayed innocent blood.
Speaker 2 (05:56):
Judas fell to his knees, begging Caiaphas to reconsider. The
high priest scoffed, Get up, you're an embarrassment. Take your
money and be in peace. A worker is worth his wages.
With that, Judas was escorted out of the temple walls.
Judas was thrown onto the floor. He lay there for
(06:18):
a long while, his eyes were blanketed with regret. He
rose to his feet, sweat, tears and blood dripped down
his cheeks. Judas hobbled his way towards an olive tree.
He looked up the clouds above were thrashing, ready to burst.
Judas shook his head. His eyes were blazed over as
(06:40):
he threw a nearby rope up onto the tree. He
climbed it, tied a noose around his neck, and jumped
off the branch. The rope tightened and Judas's body flailed
for a long moment. The sound of tightening rope and
rust and leaves cut through the silence of the early morning. Then,
as the sun rose, Judas breathed his last breath Chapter
(07:07):
twenty seven. Hanging on a tree. Chariots of bronze burst
through the palace gates, trampling the well tended garden underfoot.
The chanting of Absalom's name grew louder and louder. As
he dismounted his horse, he turned to the people who
had followed behind him and waved King Absy, he whispered
(07:27):
to himself. He shook his head and.
Speaker 8 (07:30):
Laughed, what a great king I will be.
Speaker 2 (07:33):
He walked into the palace with a hithafel close behind him.
Speaker 8 (07:37):
Gather any of the remaining advisers of the king. He ordered,
I would like to begin my reign as soon as possible.
Speaker 2 (07:44):
A hithafel gathered the men who were close to David
but refrained from following him into the wilderness. Among them
was Hashai, fresh from the Mount of Olives, where he
was commissioned by David to sow discord. Hashai entered into
the throne room of the king, ready to do the
dirty work of politics. He never thought he had a
knack for lying in deception. It was one of the
(08:06):
qualities that made David trust him so much. However, in
this moment, deception was required. He would do his best
to undermine Absalom and a Hithafal in their attempt to
overthrow the kingdom. David's reign in Israel hung in the balance.
The Shai entered and raised his arms to Absalom.
Speaker 9 (08:25):
Long live the King, Long live the King, Long live
the King.
Speaker 2 (08:32):
He shouted and clapped. Absalom cocked his head to the
side and peered at a Shi.
Speaker 8 (08:38):
Hushai, is this the type of loyalty you give your
friend David? I know how close you two were. Why
did you not retreat with him into the wilderness.
Speaker 2 (08:49):
Hushai paused for a moment, remembering that he was not
very good at lying. He smiled and opened his palms.
Speaker 9 (08:55):
Good Absalom, my loyalty is to the king that the
lord and people use. It is clear to me they
have chosen you. So here I am at your service,
just as I was for your father.
Speaker 2 (09:08):
Hashai's lies seemed to satisfy Absalom. He was too prideful
to inquire further.
Speaker 8 (09:13):
Very well, then, he said, we shall now discuss how
to establish me as king over the people. Perhaps a
show of force, what will make the people know I
am king?
Speaker 2 (09:24):
A gesture to a hithefel, What say you, counselor a hithefel,
bowed his head and furrowed his brow.
Speaker 10 (09:30):
You must make your dominance over your father known to
all the people, he said. Showcase your power by going
into your father's concubines, ravage them, and make it known
to all the people that David is a stench and
you alone own the city.
Speaker 2 (09:46):
Absalom, being the egotistical psychopath that he was, loved the idea.
They've pitched a tent on the roof of the palace,
and one by one Absalom went into all ten of
his father's concubines. The entire nation of Israel heard about
what he was doing and immediately began to question the
validity of what was happening. Only minutes into being King
(10:07):
Absalom made his first mistake, and Hushai planned how he
might continue those mistakes. Meanwhile, deep in the forests, resting
on the mount of Olives, David rose from his place
of prayer. He had sang a hymn of desperation and
trust in God. He knew, beyond a shadow of a
doubt that he would be taken care of. All he
(10:28):
had to do. Was remained righteous and willing to act
when called upon. The king led his people down the
other side of the mountain. As they were leaving the summit,
he heard a rustling in the bushes. Shama, Abishai and
David all unsheathed their swords and prepared for a fight.
From the bushes, a stone came flying out and hit
Abhishi directly in the stomach. He keeled back and gasped.
(10:53):
A man came out shouting at them. It was Shimiai,
a member of Sal's family.
Speaker 9 (10:58):
Get out o here, ye men of blood. You are worthless.
You never measured up to King Saul. The Lord is
punishing you for the blood of Saul. This is what
you deserve. You men of blood. Shame on you.
Speaker 2 (11:12):
Abishi rose to his feet and grabbed his sword.
Speaker 10 (11:16):
You shall not speak to my king like that.
Speaker 2 (11:18):
He shouted, and he darted towards Shimiai. However, David ran
after him and held him back. Abshi turned around.
Speaker 10 (11:25):
What are you doing? Let me go over there and
take off his head. Why should this dead dog curse
you like this?
Speaker 5 (11:32):
Let it go, Abishai? David side, he is not worth
the trouble. Besides, perhaps his words are from the Lord.
Speaker 10 (11:40):
What are you talking about, David?
Speaker 2 (11:42):
Of course they aren't, Abishi exclaimed, he is.
Speaker 10 (11:44):
A bitter old fool and should be punished.
Speaker 2 (11:47):
As Abeshi was saying this, shimi I continued to throw
stones and mud at them. David covered his head from
the stones and said.
Speaker 5 (11:55):
My own son wants me dead. What could this man
possibly say to make me feel worse than I do?
Speaker 2 (12:01):
Now leave him alone.
Speaker 5 (12:04):
If his words are from God, then I deserved him.
If he is sinning, then God will punish. Either way,
God would not be happy if I lash out at him.
Why would I return.
Speaker 2 (12:18):
Evil for evil? David began to walk away, but shimi
I was persisting. He threw stones, mud and sticks at David.
His men did their best to shield him, but were
unable to block the pile of cow dung he threw
with David's head. It hit him in the side of
the face, and David stumbled to his knees. It was
truly a low point for the king. He was mocked, cursed,
(12:41):
and had dung on his face. The king stood to
his feet in dignity and pressed on. They camped beside
the Jordan River and refreshed themselves. David sang songs of
hope to encourage the people. Absalom tapped his fingers on
the throne and stared deeply into the fire. His gaze
was intense, and he was lost in deep thought. Absalom
(13:04):
was a patient man, consumed with every detail of his coup.
The final obstacle of his reign as king was David himself.
He needed him dead. A Hithefel and a shy were
both standing at attention behind the throne. Hashin noticed a
Hithethel's eyes. They were intensely fixed on Absalom, like a
dog waiting for a bone. There was something strange about
(13:27):
a Hithefel. He was not well and clearly obsessed with
pleasing the new king, Ashin knew there was room to
cause chaos among the two of them. He just needed
to use his words very carefully. A Hithephel Absalom said.
The councilor was quick to move in front of the
throne and bow his head.
Speaker 8 (13:45):
What are your thoughts about what we should do next?
Shall we hunt for David or send assassins?
Speaker 2 (13:51):
A showing of.
Speaker 10 (13:52):
Strength is best, my lord, A Hithafel said, let me
choose twelve thousand men to pursue David. He is less
than a thousand with him, and less of them are warriors.
We will overwhelm them with few casualties and focus on
killing David alone. Once he is slain, then the people
are bound to follow us.
Speaker 2 (14:10):
A Hithefel knelt down to the king and said.
Speaker 10 (14:12):
Allow me to bring the people back to you like
a bride comes to her husband.
Speaker 2 (14:17):
Absalom seemed to like his idea. A showing of strength
would establish him over David. It would be satisfying to
march against him with twelve thousand men behind him. He
wanted to prove to his father that he could lead
such an army. Absalom turned to Hashai and beckoned him forward.
Speaker 8 (14:35):
What say you, Hashai, Do you agree with the Hithephel.
Shall we march up against David?
Speaker 2 (14:41):
Hashai looked at a Hithefel, and then back at Absalom.
Speaker 9 (14:44):
A Hithaphel is a wise man, but I believe this
time he is wrong, blatantly and clearly wrong.
Speaker 2 (14:51):
A Hithafel's upper lip twitched into a brief snarl.
Speaker 10 (14:54):
Do you not find the king strong enough to defeat
David with twelve thousand men behind him?
Speaker 2 (15:00):
A Hitthethal scoffed. Hashai shook his head. It's not that,
my king, I swear.
Speaker 9 (15:06):
However, you should know very well your father is surrounded
by his mighty men. Six hundred of them have toppled
over forty thousand easily. They are strong, good tacticians, experience,
and now you have provoked them like a mother bear
robbed of her cubs. It does not seem to me
a wise decision to simply march against them and expect
(15:28):
to win.
Speaker 10 (15:29):
What if we surprise.
Speaker 2 (15:31):
Them, a Hitthefel said, they will need to rest.
Speaker 10 (15:34):
What if we attacked them in the middle.
Speaker 2 (15:36):
Of the night. Hushai shook his head again.
Speaker 9 (15:38):
You clearly have not met King David do you really
think he would sleep among the people. No, he will
camp elsewhere to protect the people from harm. All you
will accomplish is attacking innocent people and being called a
murderer of fellow Israelites.
Speaker 2 (15:55):
Absalom was annoyed, but knew Hushai was correct. If a
Shi could sense the tension between him, Absalom and a Hithaval,
he breathed in deeply and thought for a moment. Perhaps
he began.
Speaker 9 (16:09):
We should meet them at a neutral battlefield, one in
which we can get a clear vantage point of David.
We increase our efforts if we can target David specifically.
Speaker 2 (16:18):
The Shai could tell that his answers were not satisfying Absalom,
so he appealed to his ego, saying.
Speaker 9 (16:24):
I have no doubt that you will be able to
rally the men of Israel behind you. March up against
David and face him yourself. If for some reason he
gets past you and into the city, all Israel will
bring ropes and we shall drag him into the valley
until not even a pebble is to be found there.
Speaker 2 (16:42):
That final word stirred Absalom, and he was pleased with
a Shai very well Absalom said, we shall march.
Speaker 8 (16:49):
We will gather men and meet David and his band
of old dogs, and the entire world shall know that
I am the great King of Israel.
Speaker 2 (17:00):
So Absalom rose from his throne to go and prepare,
leaving Hashai and a Hithefel alone. The two of them
stood there, staring at one another for a long time.
A Hithefel knew who Shai was up to something, but
could not prove it. Hashai could see the unbalanced psyche
of a Hithefel begin to teeter away. He was shaking
(17:20):
and nervous. Finally, Hashai spoke, saying, it is time to
prepare the man. A Hitthefel, you should be following the king.
A Hithefel said nothing. He left, and Hashai rushed to
go send word to David. He went to have Biethar
and Zaduk, telling them all that was happening.
Speaker 9 (17:39):
You must warn David not to rest in the warpath
of Absalom. If he is anywhere near the Jorda River,
he must escape now if his people want to live.
Speaker 2 (17:49):
Jonathan and Ahimaas left to send the message to David
on behalf of their fathers. They ran into the night
like cats, scurrying through the streets without making a noise. However,
there were some who were aware of their mission. A
young man had seen them leaving the city and sent
word to Absalom's guards. They left on horseback in pursuit
of the young priests. Jonathan and Ahimaaz ran for their lives,
(18:12):
cutting corners and hopping over barrels of wine and grain.
The chase was frantic, and the two men felt like
they were moments away from being captured. They turned the
corner to their rendezvous point with another woman messenger. She
was standing by the well waiting for them. Instead of
greeting her, the two young men leaped forward and jumped
(18:32):
into the well. When the woman saw the guards riding,
she quickly lifted the large tarp covering and draped it
over the mouth of the well. The guards slid to
a stop and yellop, where did they go?
Speaker 5 (18:45):
Where are Jonathan and Ahimeas?
Speaker 2 (18:48):
The woman didn't flinch. She pointed south and said they.
Speaker 6 (18:51):
Jumped into the brook and followed it downstream. I think
they were heading outside of the city, she said.
Speaker 2 (18:57):
The guards wasted no time. All of the brook down
for miles, searching desperately for the young men. When they
found nothing, they rode back into the city and searched
for them. There the woman uncovered the well. The two
young priests burst out of the water and gasped for her.
Speaker 7 (19:14):
You must leave now, the.
Speaker 2 (19:15):
Woman said, I may be back. So the two men
ran into the night, sopping wet and filled with purpose.
The silvery moon hung over David's camp like a watchman.
Its silvery light shone down on them. Bouncing off the
water of the Jordan River, David washed his face in
the cool water, wiping off the last of the dung.
(19:37):
He sighed and looked up at the moon. It seemed
closer than usual, as if the eye of God was
bending down closer to keep a close watch. David shook
his head and chuckled. He wished Jonathan was here. He
longed to hear his wisdom on what he should do next.
He could not run forever. Eventually, he knew they would
have to fight. As the thought of fighting crossed his mind,
(20:00):
he wondered where Joab was. Perhaps he too has abandoned me,
David thought to himself, I am no longer a man
worth following. The king had a sinking feeling that he
was being punished for his sins. Nathan had prophesied that
bloodshed would never leave his house. This seemed like a
reasonable fulfillment of that prophecy. He looked back at the camp.
(20:24):
Most of the people had retreated into their tents for
the night. He still could not believe all his mighty
men and hundreds of his servants had followed him into
the wilderness. He did not find himself worthy of their loyalty,
but he would do his very best to protect them.
They were his sheep, and he was their shepherd. David
caught a glimpse of his son, Solomon, being carried into
(20:45):
the tent with his mother. He jogged over to them
and gave his son a kiss on the forehead. He
tucked both of the men and sang a hymn as
they drifted asleep. He stroked Solomon's hair and wondered what
would become of him. You are special, little one, David whispered,
I wonder what would become of you. The king left
(21:09):
the tent and sat down beside the fire. Abeshai, Shamah, Eliezar,
and Attai were already gathered around. The five of them
spoke for a long while about the next steps. They bickered, laughed,
and cried. It was just like old times in the wilderness.
God was still their leader, and they trusted the Lord
for his intervention. As the night was growing cold and
(21:31):
the men were ready to retreat into their tents, a
stirring was caused among the camp. The two young priests
had finally arrived with word from Hashai. Absalom is marching.
They shouted, you must arise and go quickly over the water,
for Absalom and the others will be here within the
next few days.
Speaker 5 (21:50):
Where do they expect us to battle?
Speaker 7 (21:52):
David asked Gilead David, they are sending many men to
fight against you. Absalom will not relent until he he
has you in his grasp.
Speaker 2 (22:01):
David nodded and dismissed the men to return home. He
slept that night, and first thing in the morning he
gathered all the people to cross the Jordan. Once again,
David found himself wading through the river, unsure. Above the
next steps, a Hithafel watched Absalom leave with his army
(22:22):
to Gilead. Instead of appointing him as commander or Joe
ab As commander. He appointed Amasa, a boy and a brute.
A Hithafel had finally come to a breaking point. He
had stewed in anger against David for so long that
he was too quick to jump to Absalom's side. Now
he was a man without a king. He betrayed David,
(22:43):
and Absalom preferred the Council of Hashai over him. His
hands trembled and his cheeks were red with rage. He
took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and left to
return home. He set his house in order, tied a
noose to the top of his home, and hung himself.
His body hung there, lifeless, as a symbol of the
sad and sorry state of Israel, a nation without a king.
(23:09):
A storm was approaching. The wind howled from the east,
and David wrapped his cloak around him tightly as he
and his men marched forward. Absalom had crossed the Jordan River,
encamped at the forest of a freeham beside a large valley. David,
Ittai and Abeshi climbed a small hill to get a
better view of the battlefield. It was rough and wide ground.
(23:31):
If they were to fight there, it would not be
easy Absalom's men outnumbered David's five to one. An open
field would give the advantage to the army. With more men,
we can take the fight straight to the forest, David said.
If we take today to march around the valley, we
can meet them on the other side of the forest
of Ephriam.
Speaker 10 (23:51):
It would certainly narrow the battle to a more manageable size.
Speaker 2 (23:54):
Ittai agreed, However, I.
Speaker 10 (23:56):
Would still feel more comfortable if we had more men.
Speaker 7 (24:00):
Than more men you shall get.
Speaker 2 (24:02):
A voice called out from behind them. David and Abshi
looked over and behind them was Joab leading hundreds of soldiers.
He opened his arms up and smiled.
Speaker 7 (24:12):
You did not think I joined the ranks of Absalom,
did you?
Speaker 2 (24:15):
He burnt my fields. David laughed and embraced his friend.
The four of them discussed the situation and all arrived
at the same conclusion they had the best chance attacking
in the forest. David gathered the men together and began
to map out the battle.
Speaker 5 (24:31):
Abashi, you will take a third of the men and
attack first. Itai will take a third of the attack
from the flank. Joe Ab, you will take the last
third and ambush them. Once the battle has been initiated.
I will march with Abashi at the front. I desire
to face Absalom myself and bring him back with me.
(24:51):
Any questions, The three others looked at each other with
concerned looks on their faces. What is wrong, David asked.
Joab answered and said.
Speaker 7 (25:01):
My king, this is a battle. You should not march
into what No, I.
Speaker 2 (25:07):
Must go with you.
Speaker 5 (25:08):
It is my dutiest king, and I will not abandon
you like I did in Amon.
Speaker 2 (25:13):
This is different. It's I protested.
Speaker 10 (25:15):
If you are there, they will not relent until you
are captured. However, if you are absent, it gives us
the option to retreat. They do not care about us.
They only care about you.
Speaker 2 (25:28):
Joe have placed a hand on David's shoulder.
Speaker 7 (25:30):
I would not want to fight against my own son.
If the moment came when I had to slay him
for the good of the nation, I am not sure
I would have the strength. So I will spare you
from that decision. You should defend the city nearby with
a group of mighty men. If we need to retreat,
we will flee into the nearby city and you can
help us escape.
Speaker 2 (25:50):
David paused for a long while he sighed and looked
out over the horizon. Again, his son was camped near
the forest, probably strategizing with his own men on how
to slay him. It hurt him deeply that he had
to march against his own son. He understood the point
his men made and did not argue. He lifted his
hand in surrender and said, whatever seems best to you,
(26:13):
I will do so. The king took reinforcements to the
border of Gilead. Near the gate, he ordered and placed
Joe ab abshi in Ittai in the proper formations and
sent them off. However, before they left, David stopped them
and said, please deal gently with Absolom for my sake.
(26:34):
Bring him home alive if possible. They nodded and departed
for the forest. The storm above continued to pick up speed,
and the blustering wind howled through the woods like a
pack of ravenous wolves. The clouds blocked out the sun,
and the woods remained in darkness. Scouts from the camp
of Israel sent word to Absalom that David's men were
(26:56):
marching from behind them, so he rallied his men to
absorb the at They pressed forward into the forest, listening
for David's men. Absalom had marched with joe ab before
when doing raids of smaller nations. However, he was not
aware of the full strength of David's mighty men. Legends
of their power were more of a fantasy to him
than reality. He was gravely mistaken. The first attack was
(27:20):
from Abashi. Behind him were Eliezar, Shama and Joshubin. They
attacked with the same speed as the wind above them.
Absalom throwed his brow and lifted his sword. He commanded
the combined remnants of Israel's army with Absalom's mercenaries ran
forward and clashed with abashink Shama ran ahead with his sword.
(27:44):
He dodged the initial attacks, slashing men of the ankles
as he went. His sword was an extension of his
own body, and was with it. He once killed an
entire army of Philistines on his own, overtecting a venterfield.
Joshuabin was not far. He ran gracefully with his spear
in his head. Every man who came up against him
(28:05):
was met with the tip of the spear loshed over
their throat to chest. His speed was unmatched, and the
grace with which he yielded, his weapon was uncarable. It
is what earned him the place of captain, and how
he once killed eight hundred men all by himself. Elizar
held out over his ground until more enemies stepped forward.
(28:25):
Dozens launched themselves at him, only to perish immediately. Elizar's
starting to sense strength earned him the trust of King David.
He once bought with David for so long that his
sword stuck to his hands. Absalom panicked as he watched
David's mighty men fight. They were more ferocious than lions
and quicker than hans. He was beginning to feel the
(28:47):
full weight of just how strong they were. He turned
back to retreat back into the forest, but hit time
was already attacking at the flag. They gave Absalom no
choice but to fight. If he wanted to throw, he
would have to spill blood on the battlefield, just as
David did. So. Absalom rode forward on his horse, slashing
(29:07):
through opponents and leaning on his training. Joe ab was
not far behind with his men when he finally entered.
That was Absalom's signal to flee. He whipped his horse
and rode as fast as he could. The tree covering
became shorter and shorter as the horse rode under the
thick branches. Absalom slashed through the branches with his sword,
(29:27):
frantically trying to escape. He could hear the clamoring of
soldiers in pursuit behind him. He yelled in fear and
whipped his horse even more to pick up speed. The
great oaks covered the skies and the branches intertwined with
one another above him, The covering became lower and lower,
until finally Absalom rode fast as the two branches, getting
(29:49):
his head caught between them. The force crushed his throat
and the horse continued to ride forward, leaving the prints
hanging by his neck in the air. He gasped struggled
to free himself, but his neck was lodged deep into
the oak. One of the soldiers saw Absalom struggling to
get free and ran to tell Joe.
Speaker 6 (30:08):
Ab whi Joe ab Absalom is hanging from a tree.
Speaker 2 (30:12):
Joab took the man by the collar and yelled.
Speaker 7 (30:14):
You saw him hanging there, and you did not strike
him down to the ground. I would have given you
ten pieces of silver if you killed him.
Speaker 2 (30:21):
The soldier panicked and said.
Speaker 6 (30:23):
But King David said, doctor Harmon, even if you offered
me a thousand pieces of silver, I would not dare
kill the king's son.
Speaker 2 (30:32):
Joe Ab scoffed and grabbed three spears and marched into
the forest. The wind mettled through the forest, nearly knocking
the young soldier off his feet. However, Joeab marched forward unhindered.
Hanging in the oak covering above was Absalom. He was
gasping for air and trying to break himself free. Joe
Ab stood below him.
Speaker 7 (30:53):
And called out to him, your majesty.
Speaker 2 (30:56):
Absalom looked below, unable to say anything. Joab took his
first spear and gripped it. He swung it around a
few times, then threw it upwards, going through Absalom's shoulder.
The tip of the spear went straight through him, breaking
off the branch that held him. He fell to the
ground hard. Absalom took a deep breath, finally able to breathe,
(31:18):
but in pain from the spear in his shoulder. He
stood and tried to run, but Joab threw the other spear.
It was a direct hit through his back and out
through the left side of his stomach. Absalom cried out
in intense pain, shaking on the floor. Joab rolled his
neck back and drew a deep breath. You want to
know something, he said to the screaming man on the ground.
Speaker 7 (31:40):
After all this, your father still wanted me to spare you.
Speaker 2 (31:46):
Absalom held out his arm and crawled backwards away from
joe An. Please, he coughed, a mercy.
Speaker 7 (31:54):
You received your mercy, Absalom. Your father gave it twice.
I will not let him give it a third time.
Speaker 2 (32:03):
Joab took his third spear and drove it through absalom stand.
He looked at the life slowly fading away from Absalom's eyes.
He let go of his spear and allowed the other
men to take turns stamping him. The tyrant prince was dead,
and along with him the coup. Joab had finished him off.
Despite David's orders to spare him. A rebellion was ended
(32:27):
by another act of rebellion. The irony did not escape Joab.
He took Absalom's body and threw him into a great
pit in the forest. A heap of stones were thrown
over his body as a memorial to him. Joab looked
at the entire army of Israel that had fought with Absalom.
The men he once led stood before him in shame.
(32:48):
Back to your homes, he shouted. Every man left to
return to Jerusalem. Joab stood over the pile of stones.
The clouds above were thrashing, ready to burst. A reign
was coming soon. Joe Ab spat at the stones.
Speaker 7 (33:04):
Long live the king.
Speaker 2 (33:07):
He said. He and his men returned to the king,
ready to restore peace back to God's people.
Speaker 4 (33:18):
King Absalom's reign was quick. His rise was dramatic and fierce,
and his fall was disgraceful and gory. If we were
to just look at Saul and Absolute lives, it would
send a clear message that kings are doomed to fall.
When you read First and Second Kings, you get a
similar message. Many of the kings after David rose quickly
(33:39):
forgot their purpose and fell dramatically. Just a few episodes ago,
we thought David might share the same fate, but he didn't.
What sets David apart from these other kings? What set
David apart from the kings of the ancient world who
conquered and then were conquered. We can go back to
the beginning for that answer. In episode Ode three, Samuel
(34:01):
tells Saul about his chosen king. The Lord has sought
out another to replace you. He has sought out a
man who is after his own heart. He has sought
out a man who cares more about pleasing the heart
of God than looking for the approval of man. This
king shall be prince over the Lord's people. He shall
steward God's people well, and it will be his kingdom
(34:23):
that continues into eternity. Even in his failures, wanderings, and missteps.
David comes back to the Lord every time he seeks
after his heart, and faithfulness of God is his safety net.
He is a refuge and strength for him. No matter
how far David falls, God lifts him back up. God's
(34:43):
relationship to David is a symbol of his relationship with Israel.
Time after time, Israel fails, but when they cry out
to him, he is faithful to respond. He keeps his
promises to them. God is faithful even when David isn't
absolute naturally doing everything without God, the pride of the
throne that corrupted Saul's heart made quick work of Absolom.
(35:07):
Not even minutes into being king does he have a
horrendous failure. He ravages his father's harem, subjugates the people,
and marches to go fight the mighty men. Absolom, a
man of wit, lost all of his sensibilities when he
became king. Pride tends to cancel out whatever our gifts are.
Absolom was a smart man, but that was no room
(35:28):
for so but thinking when pride occupied his mind. Think
about some of the gifts you have. Think about how
much more useful they would be without any pride or arrogance.
Hooper's stains our ambitions, but humility makes them clean. David
proved once again to be a humble man. An angry
man came out of the forest and threw stones and
(35:49):
dung at him, but David remained calm. David and Absalom
are contrasted in this episode. While Absolom demanded respect, David
allowed dung to be thrown at him. David needs to
show even more humility when it is time to march
in a battle. He wants to ride with his men,
but they all agree it's best for him to stay back.
(36:10):
Think about how hard this must have been for David.
Not only does he need to sit on his hands,
while his brothers fight, he will not be able to
protect Absolom from being killed. Even though David is the king,
he submits to the advice of his men. This is
a growing moment for David, who in the last episodes
refused to take counsel. Joe ab and the Mighty Men
(36:30):
marched against Absolom, and the tide of the battle quickly
shifts in their favor. What did Absolom expect? Pride clouded
his better judgment. He should have known he was no
match for his father's finest warriors. The episode ends with
Absolom running for his life, then getting his neck caught
between two intersecting branches. It's a horrific image that gets
(36:54):
even worse when joeb arrives. The commander of David's army
doesn't spare Absolom, and we are left wondering if he
made the right call.
Speaker 2 (37:02):
David had a.
Speaker 4 (37:03):
Tendency to show mercy when judgment may have been more appropriate,
especially when it came to his sons, but is rebellion
away to squash a rebellion, Joe ib recognized the irony himself.
This leads us to consider a few questions. Do too
wrong sometimes make a right. Do the end sometimes justify
the means. We are told exactly what the answers to
(37:26):
those questions are, but we are invited to wrestle with them.
Joe Ab robed Absolom the chance to change his ways
and Joe AB's words, you received your mercy, Absolom. Your
father gave it twice. I will not let him give
it a third time. Odds are Absolom wouldn't have truly changed.
But was that Joe AB's call to me? We will
(37:47):
leave the question open for now and see how Joe
Ab and David's relationship evolved in our next episode. Absolom
hung from a tree, disgraced as a traitor, but David
still loved him till the end. This brings us back
to the prelude. Judas is the one who sold Jesus out,
also hung from a tree. He betrayed him and gave
(38:07):
him up to be killed, but Jesus loved him till
the end. And John thirteen, we're told that Jesus washed
all his disciples feet. He served every single one of them,
including Judas, who hours later sold him for thirty pieces
of silver. Judas's actions did not change Jesus's love for him,
just like Absalom's actions did not change David's love for him.
(38:28):
Know this, brothers and sisters, no matter what you have done,
on how far you strayed, God still loves you. Jesus's
love is greater than your sin. Even in our rebellion,
God still begs for us to come back to him.
In our next episode, David continues to mourn the loss
of his son. His tender heart is put on display,
but it may be time for David to seize his
(38:49):
tears and steady his grip. What Absalom started is not over.
Join us for episode twenty eight, The Rebellion of Sheba.
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.
(39:13):
Forward slash Heroes. Follow the podcast on Apple or Spotify
to get the newest episodes right as they come out,
and always be inspired by the Bible. God bless
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