College Press Bible Study Textbook Series
2 Samuel 20 - Introduction
PART FIVE
DAVID'S LAST DAYS AND SONG
2 Samuel 20:1 to 2 Samuel 24:25
A DIGEST OF CHAPTER 20
Sheba's revolt. Some of the Israelites still felt that David had usurped Saul's throne. This was especially true of the men of Benjamin. They found a leader in Sheba.
Amasa's indolence. David had made Amasa his captain in Joab's stead and sent him to put down Sheba's revolt. Amasa proved inept and was very tardy in performing the king's bidding.
Joab assassinates Amasa. Joab went out to assist Amasa, but he killed Amasa instead. This cold-blooded murder of David's captain by his former captain is inexcusable.
Sheba's death. David's men under Joab were forced to pursue Sheba to the extreme northern boundary of Israel. He had entrenched himself in the city of Abel, but some of the wise citizens of the city slew him.
Israel's leaders. It was necessary for the kingdom to be reorganized after Absalom's and Sheba's revolt. Some of the officers who were first appointed by David were still in office. Other new offices had been formed and some of the older leaders had been replaced. It was still a very efficient organization.
LESSONS FOR LEARNING
1.
Peaceable men are men of wisdom. When Sheba fled to Abel, some of the people said that they were peaceable and faithful (2 Samuel 20:19). These men did what they knew was right. A land is blessed when it has this type of men.
2.
The powers that be are ordained of God (Romans 13:1 b). God intends for men to have good government, David saw to it that his people had good, efficient rule, More governments of this kind are needed in the present critical stage of world affairs.
CHAPTER 20 IN REVIEW
1.
Who led the revolt against David?
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2.
Of what tribe was he?
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3.
Whom did David order to muster his army?
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4.
How many days did he give him to gather his forces?
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5.
Whom did David send to help him?
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6.
Who slew Amasa?
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7.
To what city did Sheba flee?
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8.
Who beheaded Sheba?
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9.
Who was David's captain in his last days?
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10.
Who was over the tribute?
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