Topical Bible: Reproof: Faithfulness in Joab, of David

◄ Reproof: Faithfulness in Joab, of David ►

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Introduction

Reproof, a term often associated with correction and admonition, plays a significant role in the biblical narrative, particularly in the lives of key figures such as Joab, the commander of King David's army. Joab's life and actions provide a complex study of faithfulness, loyalty, and the necessity of reproof in maintaining righteousness and justice within the kingdom of Israel.

Joab's Role and Loyalty

Joab, the son of Zeruiah, was a prominent military leader under King David. His loyalty to David is evident throughout the biblical narrative, as he consistently demonstrated his commitment to the king's cause. Joab's faithfulness is highlighted in several instances, such as his role in securing Jerusalem (2 Samuel 5:6-10) and his leadership in various military campaigns (2 Samuel 10:7-14).

Instances of Reproof

Despite his loyalty, Joab's actions occasionally required reproof, as they sometimes conflicted with David's intentions or the moral standards expected by God. One notable instance is Joab's killing of Abner, the commander of Saul's army, which David condemned. In 2 Samuel 3:28-29 , David declared, "I and my kingdom are forever guiltless before the LORD concerning the blood of Abner son of Ner. May it fall upon the head of Joab and upon all his father’s house."

Another significant moment of reproof occurred when Joab killed Absalom, David's son, against the king's explicit command to deal gently with him. In 2 Samuel 18:14-15 , Joab took matters into his own hands, leading to David's profound grief and lamentation over Absalom's death (2 Samuel 18:33).

Joab's Complex Character

Joab's character is a study in contrasts. His faithfulness to David is unquestionable, yet his actions often necessitated reproof due to their violent and sometimes self-serving nature. Joab's execution of Abner and Absalom, as well as his later involvement in the death of Amasa (2 Samuel 20:10), illustrate his tendency to prioritize military expediency over moral and ethical considerations.

David's Reproof and Joab's Downfall

David's reproof of Joab was not always immediate or direct, but it was evident in his actions and decisions. Despite Joab's loyalty, David ultimately replaced him with Amasa, signaling a loss of trust (2 Samuel 19:13). Joab's downfall came during the transition of power to Solomon, David's son. In 1 Kings 2:5-6 , David instructed Solomon to deal with Joab according to his wisdom, acknowledging Joab's past actions and the need for justice.

Conclusion

Joab's life serves as a reminder of the importance of reproof in maintaining faithfulness and righteousness. His account illustrates the tension between loyalty and the need for moral accountability, highlighting the role of reproof in guiding individuals toward a path that aligns with God's will.

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2 Samuel 19:1-7
And it was told Joab, Behold, the king weeps and mourns for Absalom.
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2 Samuel 24:3
And Joab said to the king, Now the LORD your God add to the people, how many soever they be, an hundred times, and that the eyes of my lord the king may see it: but why does my lord the king delight in this thing?
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1 Chronicles 21:3
And Joab answered, The LORD make his people an hundred times so many more as they be: but, my lord the king, are they not all my lord's servants? why then does my lord require this thing? why will he be a cause of trespass to Israel?
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Library

The Acceptable Sacrifice;
... I have often wondered at David that he should give Joab and the ... Behold also the
faithfulness of Christ, who doth not hide, but read this commission as soon ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the acceptable sacrifice.htm

Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners Or, a Brief Relation of ...
... At this reproof I was silenced, and put to secret shame; and that too, as ... So I
considered David's adultery, and murder, and found them most heinous crimes; and ...
/.../bunyan/grace abounding to the chief of sinners/grace abounding to the chief.htm

Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners:
... There was nothing to David like Goliah's sword, even that sword that should have
been ... At this reproof I was silenced, and put to secret shame, and that too, as ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/grace abounding to the chief.htm

An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ...
... light, to see the fruits and effects of sin; light, to see the truth and worth of
the merits of Jesus Christ; light, to see the truth and faithfulness of God ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/an exposition on the first.htm