Emphasis Preaching Journal
For the sake of the king
Commentary
In our Old Testament passage this week, we read the poignant story of Absalom's rebellion and defeat. We recognize it as perhaps the lowest point of David's eventful life. And in the midst of that story, we read this compelling word spoken by David to the commanders in his army: "Deal gently for my sake with the young man Absalom" (2 Samuel 18:5).
It is not the traditional instruction of a man at war. It is not the conventional strategy of a king toward his enemy. Rather, this is the peculiar policy of a father who has been overthrown by his son.
It is not the traditional instruction of a man at war. It is not the conventional strategy of a king toward his enemy. Rather, this is the peculiar policy of a father who has been overthrown by his son.
