2 Samuel 14:29

Then he sent for Joab to send him to the king, but Joab refused to come to him. So Absalom sent a second time, but Joab still would not come.

Study Bible

Then he sent for Joab to send him to the king
Absalom, the son of King David, is seeking reconciliation with his father after being in exile for the murder of his brother Amnon. Joab, a military commander and close advisor to David, had previously facilitated Absalom's return to Jerusalem. This request indicates Absalom's desire to restore his standing in the royal court. Joab's role as a mediator highlights the political complexities within David's kingdom, where personal relationships often intersect with matters of state. The use of intermediaries in royal communication was common in ancient Near Eastern cultures, reflecting the hierarchical nature of the society.

but Joab refused to come to him
Joab's refusal to respond to Absalom's summons suggests a shift in his political calculations or personal motivations. This could indicate Joab's awareness of the potential risks involved in further aligning with Absalom, whose ambitions and actions might threaten the stability of David's reign. Joab's decision not to engage with Absalom at this point may reflect his loyalty to David or a strategic move to distance himself from Absalom's controversial actions. This refusal also underscores the tension and mistrust that can exist even among close allies within a royal court.

So Absalom sent a second time
Absalom's persistence in reaching out to Joab demonstrates his determination to achieve his goals, despite initial setbacks. This persistence is characteristic of Absalom's ambitious and assertive nature, which is evident throughout his narrative in 2 Samuel. His repeated attempts to engage Joab highlight the importance of Joab's support for his plans, as Joab holds significant influence in David's administration. This action also reflects the cultural norm of persistence in negotiations and the importance of securing influential allies in ancient political contexts.

but Joab still would not come
Joab's continued refusal to meet with Absalom emphasizes the gravity of the situation and the potential consequences of aligning with Absalom. This persistent refusal may indicate Joab's internal conflict or a strategic decision to avoid involvement in a potentially destabilizing power struggle. Joab's actions can be seen as a reflection of the broader theme of loyalty and betrayal that runs throughout the narrative of David's reign. This tension foreshadows the eventual conflict between Absalom and David, highlighting the fragile nature of political alliances and the personal ambitions that can drive them.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Absalom
The third son of King David, known for his handsome appearance and rebellious nature. At this point in the account, Absalom is seeking reconciliation with his father, King David, after being in exile for killing his brother Amnon.

2. Joab
The commander of King David's army and a key political figure. Joab is known for his loyalty to David, but also for his own ambitions and sometimes ruthless actions. He plays a crucial role in the reconciliation process between David and Absalom.

3. King David
The second king of Israel, a man after God's own heart, yet flawed and facing family turmoil. His relationship with Absalom is strained due to past events, including the murder of Amnon.

4. Jerusalem
The capital city of Israel and the political and spiritual center during King David's reign. It is the backdrop for much of the account in 2 Samuel.

5. Reconciliation Attempt
The event where Absalom seeks to be restored to his father's favor, using Joab as an intermediary. This reflects the ongoing tension and unresolved issues within David's family.

Teaching Points

The Complexity of Human Relationships
The account of Absalom and Joab illustrates the complexity and challenges of human relationships, especially within families. It reminds us of the importance of communication and the dangers of unresolved conflict.

The Role of Intermediaries
Joab's role as an intermediary highlights the importance of wise counsel and mediation in resolving disputes. In our lives, seeking godly counsel can be crucial in navigating difficult relationships.

The Consequences of Pride and Ambition
Absalom's actions are driven by pride and ambition, which ultimately lead to further conflict. This serves as a warning about the destructive nature of pride and the need for humility.

The Need for Genuine Reconciliation
The superficial reconciliation between David and Absalom underscores the need for genuine repentance and forgiveness in restoring relationships. True reconciliation requires honesty and a willingness to address underlying issues.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Absalom's persistence in seeking Joab's help, and how does this reflect our own approaches to resolving conflicts?

2. How does Joab's refusal to meet with Absalom initially reflect the complexities of loyalty and duty? Can you think of a situation where you had to balance these in your own life?

3. In what ways does the account of Absalom and David challenge us to examine our own family relationships and the need for reconciliation?

4. How does the theme of pride in Absalom's life connect with other biblical teachings on pride, and what practical steps can we take to guard against it?

5. Reflect on a time when you needed an intermediary to help resolve a conflict. How did that experience shape your understanding of reconciliation and forgiveness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 13
Provides the background of Absalom's estrangement from David, following the murder of Amnon, which sets the stage for the events in 2 Samuel 14:29.

2 Samuel 14:1-28
Details the efforts of Joab to bring Absalom back to Jerusalem, highlighting Joab's role as a mediator and the complexities of David's family dynamics.

Proverbs 16:18
Offers insight into the theme of pride, which is relevant to Absalom's character and actions throughout his life.

Matthew 5:23-24
Jesus' teaching on reconciliation, which can be contrasted with the flawed human attempts at reconciliation seen in the account of Absalom and David.