Theological Commentary: Click Here
2 Samuel 3 gives us an interesting tale about the working of human political machines. As we read through these words, we hear that Abner is offended by the house of Saul. This provokes Abner to have a change of heart. Abner decides to support David and his claim to the throne instead of Saul's deformed son. This is a big decision; Abner was one of the leading generals of Saul's troops. As Abner went, much of Saul's family fighting force would go as well.
However, Joab cannot forget what Abner did. Abner killed Joab's brother, Asahel. Let's make sure that we remember the story. Abner was being chased by Joab's brother and Abner killed him after telling the other man to leave him alone several times. When this didn't happen and Asahel forced the attack, Abner killed him in self-defense. Joab cannot get past this family grudge, so Joab kills Abner in cold blood.
What we can learn from this is that sometimes we blame people not because they are guilty but because we want them to be guilty. Joab cannot forgive Abner even thought Abner was acting in self-defense and gave Asahel several opportunities to back away. Abner is truly innocent, but Joab wants nothing to hear of it.
Look at David's reaction, though. David curses Joab, which is amazing. David looks to one of his generals and curses him. David risks losing Joab's loyalty. Why this is significant is because we see David choose the righteous path over the popular path. Abner didn't deserve to die. David sides with Abner instead of siding of his general Joab.
This is really a powerful testimony. We need leaders who will do the right thing, not the popular thing. We need leaders who will assert truth, not popular opinion. We need to look for people who can think for themselves and stand up when needed.
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