2 Samuel 3:19

Abner also spoke to the Benjamites and went to Hebron to tell David all that seemed good to Israel and to the whole house of Benjamin.

Study Bible

Abner also spoke to the Benjamites.
Abner, the commander of Saul's army, was a key figure in the power dynamics of Israel. The Benjamites were the tribe of Saul, Israel's first king, and thus had a vested interest in the leadership of the nation. Abner's communication with them indicates his strategic efforts to consolidate support for David, who was from the tribe of Judah. This move was significant because it showed Abner's shift in allegiance from the house of Saul to David, which was crucial for David's eventual kingship over all Israel. The Benjamites' acceptance of David's rule would have been pivotal, given their loyalty to Saul.

Then he went to Hebron to tell David
Hebron was an important city in Judah and served as David's capital during his reign over Judah before he became king over all Israel. It was a city of refuge and had historical significance as the place where Abraham settled. Abner's journey to Hebron signifies a formal and public acknowledgment of David's leadership. This act of going to David in Hebron also symbolizes a transfer of power and a unification effort, as Hebron was a central location for the tribes of Israel.

all that seemed good to Israel
This phrase suggests that Abner was acting in the interest of national unity and peace. The term "Israel" here refers to the northern tribes, which had been under the rule of Ish-bosheth, Saul's son. Abner's actions were aimed at bringing these tribes under David's rule, which was seen as beneficial for the nation. This aligns with God's promise to David that he would be king over all Israel, as seen in 1 Samuel 16:1-13 when Samuel anointed David.

and to the whole house of Benjamin.
The inclusion of the house of Benjamin highlights the importance of gaining the support of Saul's own tribe. This was a significant political move, as it demonstrated that even Saul's closest kin were willing to accept David as king. The house of Benjamin's support would have been crucial in legitimizing David's rule and ensuring a smooth transition of power. This also reflects the broader theme of reconciliation and unity among the tribes of Israel, which was a key aspect of David's reign.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abner
The commander of Saul's army, who played a pivotal role in the power dynamics of Israel after Saul's death. He initially supported Saul's son, Ish-bosheth, but later sought to align with David.

2. Benjamites
Members of the tribe of Benjamin, which was the tribe of King Saul. Their support was crucial for David as he sought to unify Israel under his kingship.

3. Hebron
A significant city in Judah where David was initially anointed king. It served as David's capital before he moved to Jerusalem.

4. David
The anointed king of Israel, who was in the process of consolidating his rule over all the tribes of Israel.

5. Israel
Refers to the collective tribes of Israel, which were divided in their loyalty between the house of Saul and David at this time.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Unity
Abner's efforts to bring the Benjamites and other tribes to support David highlight the importance of unity among God's people. In our lives, we should strive to foster unity within our communities and churches.

God's Sovereignty in Leadership
Despite human politics and power struggles, God's plan for David to be king was unfolding. We can trust in God's sovereignty over the leaders and authorities in our lives.

The Role of Reconciliation
Abner's actions demonstrate the power of reconciliation and peacemaking. As Christians, we are called to be peacemakers and to seek reconciliation in our relationships.

The Influence of Key Individuals
Abner's influence was significant in shifting the allegiance of the Benjamites. This reminds us of the impact one person can have in God's plan, encouraging us to be faithful in our roles.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Abner's role in this passage demonstrate the importance of leadership and influence in God's plan?

2. In what ways can we work towards unity in our own communities, drawing from Abner's efforts to unify Israel under David?

3. How does the shift in allegiance from Saul's house to David reflect God's sovereignty and timing in our lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from Abner's approach to reconciliation and peacemaking that we can apply in our personal relationships?

5. How does the support of the Benjamites for David foreshadow the eventual unity of Israel, and what does this teach us about the power of collective action in the church today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49:27
This verse speaks of Benjamin as a ravenous wolf, which can be seen as a reflection of the tribe's fierce loyalty and warrior spirit, relevant to their initial support for Saul's house.

1 Samuel 16:1-13
The anointing of David by Samuel, which sets the stage for his eventual kingship over all Israel, including the tribe of Benjamin.

1 Chronicles 12:29
Chronicles the support of the Benjamites for David, highlighting the shift in allegiance from Saul's house to David.