Commentary on 2 Samuel 16:20

Verse Reference: 2 Samuel 16:20 (KJV) - "Then said Absalom to Ahithophel, Give counsel among you what we shall do."

Contextual Background

This verse occurs during a tumultuous period in Israel's history when Absalom, the son of King David, has revolted against his father and is seeking to usurp the throne. The political and familial tensions resonate deeply throughout this narrative, illustrating themes of rebellion, power, and the consequences of sin.

Verse Analysis

Here, we see Absalom consulting with Ahithophel, his counselor, to strategize the next steps in his rebellion. This moment encapsulates a turning point, where Absalom’s ambition leads him to rely on human wisdom rather than seeking the divine counsel that David, his father, exemplified.

Insights from Commentators

Matthew Henry’s Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the folly of Absalom in pursuing his rebellious agenda without a thought for God's law. Henry notes that the act of consulting Ahithophel reflects a shift in allegiance—no longer looking to the God of his father, David, but rather to wicked counsel. He highlights the importance of seeking after divine wisdom in all matters, particularly in times of conflict and uncertainty.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Albert Barnes provides insight into the significance of Ahithophel as a counselor. He points out that Ahithophel was a highly regarded advisor whose counsel was akin to divine revelation. Barnes explains that Absalom, by choosing to seek counsel from such a man, demonstrates not just a rejection of his father's authority but also a profound misunderstanding of rightful leadership, which should stem from God’s guidance. Barnes warns that reliance on human wisdom can lead to paths of destruction.

Adam Clarke’s Commentary

Adam Clarke delves into the psychology behind Absalom’s actions. He describes Absalom's desire for absolute power and how it blinds him to the moral implications of his actions. Clarke elaborates that Absalom’s invitation to Ahithophel to give counsel reflects his willingness to embrace ungodly advice in pursuit of his ambitions. Clarke calls attention to the contrast between Absalom’s approach and David's previous reliance on God’s direction in seeking wisdom.

Theological Implications

The episode presents profound theological implications regarding authority, rebellion, and the nature of true wisdom. It serves as a reminder to seek the Lord's counsel rather than relying solely on human insight. The narrative showcases the dire consequences of straying from God’s ordained path, and illustrates how personal ambition can lead to moral decay and familial discord.

Key Themes

• Rebellion Against God’s Order: Absalom's rebellion is indicative of a deeper spiritual malaise, reflecting the human condition's propensity to stray from divine intent.
• Impact of Counsel: The choice of counselors demonstrates the critical nature of influences in our lives; seeking godly counsel can lead to fruitful outcomes, while ungodly advice can result in chaos.
• The Role of Divine Guidance: The contrast of Absalom’s actions with David’s reliance on God's guidance underscores the necessity of maintaining a humble heart that seeks divine wisdom.

Practical Applications

For pastors and leaders, this passage serves as a compelling reminder to prioritize divine wisdom over worldly advice, encouraging reliance on prayer and scripture when navigating leadership challenges. The narrative teaches that the pursuit of personal ambition at the expense of righteousness can lead to grave consequences—not just for oneself, but for those one leads.

For students of theology, the dynamics of Absalom's rebellion against David offers rich material for study regarding the motives of the heart and the implications of disobedience to God. The passage encourages exploration of how human decisions can affect broader communities and families.

Conclusion

The counsel sought by Absalom in 2 Samuel 16:20 is a poignant reminder of the reality of human ambition and its tendency to veer towards destruction without the guidance of divine authority. Therefore, the call for believers is clear: to seek the Lord's counsel diligently in all aspects of life, especially in moments of trial or conflict. Only through such dependence can one truly navigate the complexities of leadership and personal ambition in a manner that pleases God and promotes righteousness.