2 Samuel 18:21

So Joab said to a Cushite, "Go, tell the king what you have seen." The Cushite bowed to Joab and took off running.

Study Bible

So Joab said to a Cushite
Joab, the commander of King David's army, is a central figure in the narrative of 2 Samuel. His decision to send a Cushite, likely an Ethiopian, reflects the presence of diverse ethnic groups within Israel's sphere of influence. Cushites were known for their speed and endurance, making them ideal messengers. This choice also indicates Joab's strategic thinking, as he may have wanted to distance himself from the direct delivery of potentially distressing news to King David.

“Go, tell the king what you have seen.”
Joab instructs the Cushite to report the outcome of the battle to King David. This reflects the ancient practice of using messengers to convey important news. The phrase "what you have seen" suggests that the Cushite was an eyewitness to the events, lending credibility to his report. This moment is pivotal, as it involves the sensitive task of informing David about the death of his son Absalom, which Joab had orchestrated despite David's explicit instructions to deal gently with him.

The Cushite bowed to Joab
The act of bowing signifies respect and acknowledgment of Joab's authority. In the cultural context of the time, such gestures were common in hierarchical relationships, especially between a commander and his subordinates. This deference underscores Joab's position of power and the obedience expected from those under his command.

and took off running.
The Cushite's immediate departure highlights the urgency of the message. Running was a common mode of travel for messengers in ancient times, emphasizing the importance of speed in delivering news. This urgency is compounded by the gravity of the message concerning Absalom's fate. The act of running also symbolizes the weight of responsibility placed on the messenger, as he carries news that will deeply affect King David.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joab
The commander of King David's army, known for his military prowess and sometimes ruthless actions. In this passage, he is orchestrating the delivery of news to King David.

2. The Cushite
An unnamed messenger, likely from the region of Cush (modern-day Sudan or Ethiopia), tasked with delivering the news of Absalom's death to King David.

3. King David
The reigning king of Israel, who is anxiously awaiting news from the battlefield concerning his son Absalom.

4. Absalom
David's son, who led a rebellion against his father. His death is the news being delivered in this passage.

5. The Battle
The conflict between David's forces and those loyal to Absalom, culminating in Absalom's death.

Teaching Points

The Weight of Responsibility
Joab's decision to send the Cushite instead of Ahimaaz underscores the importance of delivering difficult news with sensitivity and wisdom. As Christians, we must consider the impact of our words and actions on others.

The Role of Messengers
The Cushite's role as a messenger reminds us of our calling to be messengers of the Gospel. We are tasked with delivering the truth, even when it is difficult, with grace and love.

The Sovereignty of God
Despite the chaos and tragedy of Absalom's rebellion, God's sovereign plan for David and Israel continues to unfold. This encourages us to trust in God's control over our lives, even in tumultuous times.

The Consequences of Sin
Absalom's rebellion and its outcome serve as a stark reminder of the destructive nature of sin and the importance of repentance and obedience to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joab's decision to send the Cushite instead of Ahimaaz reflect his understanding of the situation and his leadership style?

2. In what ways can we apply the Cushite's role as a messenger to our own responsibility to share the Gospel?

3. How does David's reaction to Absalom's death (later in the chapter) inform our understanding of the personal cost of leadership and family dynamics?

4. What lessons can we learn from the consequences of Absalom's rebellion about the importance of aligning our desires with God's will?

5. How can we trust in God's sovereignty when faced with difficult or tragic circumstances in our own lives? What scriptures can we turn to for encouragement?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 18:19-20
These verses provide context for why Joab chose the Cushite to deliver the news instead of Ahimaaz, who also wanted to run. Joab's decision reflects his understanding of the gravity of the news and its potential impact on David.

2 Samuel 18:32-33
These verses show David's reaction to the news of Absalom's death, highlighting the personal and emotional consequences of the events.

2 Samuel 14:25-27
These verses describe Absalom's appearance and family, providing background on his character and the potential reasons for his rebellion.

2 Samuel 15:1-12
This passage details Absalom's conspiracy against David, setting the stage for the battle and the events of 2 Samuel 18.