College Press Bible Study Textbook Series
2 Samuel 17 - Introduction
A DIGEST OF CHAPTER 17
Hushai's counsel. Hushai had been left in Jerusalem by David to counteract the advice of Ahithophel. Although his advice was not sound, Absalom took it.
David urged to cross over Jordan. As soon as Absalom had determined not to pursue David immediately, Hushai sent word to David that he should hurry across the Jordan river into Gilead. The little bit of time which David had gained through Hushai's counseling Absalom to wait for awhile in Jerusalem gave David an opportunity to gather his forces and organize his strategy.
David helped by the Gileadites. The people on the east side of the Jordan rallied to David's support. They brought him supplies for his troops and gave him the necessary assistance.
LESSONS FOR LEARNING
1.
The Lord appoints man's ways. The writer of the scriptures says that the Lord had appointed to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel (2 Samuel 17:14). The ways of men are in the hand of God. He does not overrule their freedom of the will, but he does bring about his will and purpose. Consequently, man should entrust his affairs to the guidance of almighty God.
2.
God will provide (Genesis 22:8; Matthew 6:33). Abraham trusted God to provide a sacrifice when he took Isaac into Mt. Moriah (Genesis 22:8). Jesus taught his disciples that they should seek first the kingdom of Heaven and that all the necessary things of life would be added to them (Matthew 6:33). David must have wondered how he would ever be able to gather enough material and supplies to wage a war. He had been driven out of his capital city and was again a fugitive. God raised up many friends for David in the land of Gilead, and he was able to supply and maintain his army. Help will come for faithful Christian workers from many unexpected sources, for God will provide.
CHAPTER 17 IN REVIEW
1.
Which councilor advised Absalom to attack David at once?
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2.
How many men did he want to muster?
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3.
Which councilor advised waiting?
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4.
Which man's advice was taken?
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5.
What did the loser do?
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6.
What were the names of the priests-' sons?
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7.
Who carried the message from the priests to their sons?
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8.
To what city in Gilead did David flee?
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9.
Who became Absalom's captain?
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10.
What three Gileadite men brought supplies to David?
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