Playlist: Absalom's Rebellion (topic)
Israelite Soap Opera
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughAbsalom's rebellion, about a decade after David's sin with Bathsheba, gave Ahithophel the opportunity for revenge. Ahithophel was David's wisest counselor and Bathsheba's grandfather (pieced together from the genealogical details of Eliam and Bathsheba), and he had stewed for years over the disgrace to his family's name. When …
Bitterness Can Kill
Sermon by Mike FordAbsalom's rebellion is presented as the fruit of Ahithophel's long-nursed bitterness. Ahithophel, David's chief counselor, was most likely the grandfather of Bathsheba, whose husband Uriah David killed, and he watched David's sin devastate his family. Rather than leave vengeance to God (Deuteronomy 32:35; Romans 12:19), he …
God Is Preparing Us For the Kingdom
Sermon by Kim MyersAbsalom's rebellion is presented as one of the many trials in King David's life, a man after God's own heart who was tested continually yet stayed faithful. The trouble began with Amnon's rape of Tamar. Absalom avenged his sister by killing Amnon at a party after two years of waiting, then fled into exile. David brought him …
Psalm 55
Sermon/Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughDuring the rebellion of Absalom, as recounted in II Samuel 15-17, David faced a profound betrayal that forced him into exile. Fleeing Jerusalem over the River Jordan into Moab, David was on the run, not yet having gathered his army or resolved the situation. As he ascended the Mount of Olives, he looked back at the city, …
Don't Be a Politician
Sermon by Mike FordAbsalom's rebellion exemplifies the destructive nature of political ambition and pride. As the third son of King David, Absalom was not first in line for the throne, yet he coveted power from an early age. His cunning and patience were evident as he waited two years to murder his brother Amnon, who had raped their sister Tamar, …
As The Deer Pants
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingThere are various connotations of the verb 'pant' as it applies to thirsting in a dry environment as well as to the exhaustion of an escaping animal.
Poor Choices
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIn the historical account of leadership choices, Absalom's rebellion stands as a stark example of poor decision-making by the people. David, though aged and likely in his sixties, was the rightful king, yet the people were swayed by the youthful and charismatic Absalom, who captured their hearts by giving them what they desired. …
Psalms: Book One (Part Three)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIn the context of exploring the themes of trust and faith in God within Book One of the Psalms, the account of Absalom's rebellion against David serves as a poignant backdrop to Psalm 3, illustrating the depth of despair and the power of faith in dire circumstances. During this rebellion, as recorded in II Samuel 15:13-14, a …
Fatherhood and Modern Temptations
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsDavid's failures as a father are starkly evident in the tragic events surrounding Absalom's rebellion. Despite being a man after God's own heart, David faltered in his paternal duties, neglecting to discipline or fully reconcile with Absalom. This lack of guidance and attention contributed to the discord within his family, …