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Worldly Wise Advice - 2Sam. 17
Worldly Wise Advice - 2Sam. 17
In reading the story of Absalom, I read this comment: “In this entire event the writer has taken great care to describe how King Absalom determined his course of action—like the kings of other nations, he sought the advice of wise men. In so doing he created a strong contrast with his father. At every crux in his life, David sought the word of the Lord, either through an Aaronic priest (1 Sam 23:1–6; 2 Sam 5:19, 23) or a prophet (7:3–17). Absalom’s pursuit of and compliance with human counsel brought about the hasty end of his regime. David’s pursuit of and obedience to divine revelation brought him only success and dynastic blessings. By providing contrasting narrative portraits of these two Davidic kings, the author writes a prescription for the success of all future leaders in Israel: seek the word of the Lord through its authorized mediators and obey it.” (New American Commentary on 1,2 Samuel, by Robert Bergen, pg. 417, Logos edition).
Today, we have the words of the apostles and prophets. Their writings allow us to know the revealed mind of God. It allows us to “be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God” (Romans 12:1-2). Paul also wrote: “ All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
Where do you turn for advice and instruction? When we do turn to other men, let us make sure that THEY are guided by the word of God and not the mind of the world.
Are you more inclined to be like Absalom or David in these things?
Hugh DeLong
