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2 Samuel 2

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1 Some time later, David inquired of the LORD, “Should I go up to one of the towns of Judah?” “Go up,” the LORD answered. Then David asked, “Where should I go?” “To Hebron,” replied the LORD. 2 So David went there with his two wives, Ahinoam of Jezreel and Abigail the widow of Nabal of Carmel. 3 David also took the men who were with him, each with his household, and they settled in the towns near Hebron. 4 Then the men of Judah came to Hebron, and there they anointed David king over the house of Judah. And they told David, “It was the men of Jabesh-gilead who buried Saul." 5 So David sent messengers to the men of Jabesh-gilead to tell them, “The LORD bless you, because you showed this kindness to Saul your lord when you buried him. 6 Now may the LORD show you loving devotion and faithfulness, and I will also show you the same favor because you have done this. 7 Now then, be strong and courageous, for though Saul your lord is dead, the house of Judah has anointed me as their king." 8 Meanwhile, Abner son of Ner, the commander of Saul’s army, took Saul’s son Ish-bosheth, moved him to Mahanaim, 9 and made him king over Gilead, Asher, Jezreel, Ephraim, and Benjamin—over all Israel. 10 Saul’s son Ish-bosheth was forty years old when he began to reign over Israel, and he reigned for two years. The house of Judah, however, followed David. 11 And the length of time that David was king in Hebron over the house of Judah was seven years and six months. 12 One day Abner son of Ner and the servants of Ish-bosheth son of Saul marched out from Mahanaim to Gibeon. 13 So Joab son of Zeruiah, along with the servants of David, marched out and met them by the pool of Gibeon. And the two camps took up positions on opposite sides of the pool. 14 Then Abner said to Joab, “Let us have the young men get up and compete before us.” “Let them get up,” Joab replied. 15 So they got up and were counted off—twelve for Benjamin and Ish-bosheth son of Saul, and twelve for David. 16 Then each man grabbed his opponent by the head and thrust his sword into his opponent’s side, and they all fell together. So this place, which is in Gibeon, is called Helkath-hazzurim. 17 The battle that day was intense, and Abner and the men of Israel were defeated by the servants of David. 18 The three sons of Zeruiah were there: Joab, Abishai, and Asahel. Now Asahel was fleet of foot like a wild gazelle, 19 and he chased Abner, not turning to the right or to the left in his pursuit. 20 And Abner glanced back and said, “Is that you, Asahel?” “It is,” Asahel replied. 21 So Abner told him, “Turn to your right or to your left, seize one of the young men, and take his equipment for yourself.” But Asahel would not stop chasing him. 22 Once again, Abner warned Asahel, “Stop chasing me. Why should I strike you to the ground? How could I show my face to your brother Joab?" 23 But Asahel refused to turn away; so Abner thrust the butt of his spear into his stomach, and it came out his back, and he fell dead on the spot. And every man paused when he came to the place where Asahel had fallen and died. 24 But Joab and Abishai pursued Abner. By sunset, they had gone as far as the hill of Ammah opposite Giah on the way to the wilderness of Gibeon. 25 The Benjamites rallied to Abner, formed a single unit, and took their stand atop a hill. 26 Then Abner called out to Joab: “Must the sword devour forever? Do you not realize that this will only end in bitterness? How long before you tell the troops to stop pursuing their brothers?" 27 “As surely as God lives,” Joab replied, “if you had not spoken up, the troops would have continued pursuing their brothers until morning." 28 So Joab blew the ram’s horn, and all the troops stopped; they no longer pursued Israel or continued to fight. 29 And all that night Abner and his men marched through the Arabah. They crossed the Jordan, marched all morning, and arrived at Mahanaim. 30 When Joab returned from pursuing Abner, he gathered all the troops. In addition to Asahel, nineteen of David’s servants were missing, 31 but they had struck down 360 Benjamites who were with Abner. 32 Later, they took Asahel and buried him in his father’s tomb in Bethlehem. Then Joab and his men marched all night and reached Hebron at daybreak.

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Study Notes — 2 Samuel 2

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Chapter Summary

The chapter begins with David inquiring of the Lord if he should go up to one of the cities of Judah, and God instructs him to go to Hebron. There, David is anointed king over Judah, and he dwells in Hebron for seven years and six months. Meanwhile, Abner, the commander of Saul's army, makes Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, king over Israel. The chapter concludes with a conflict between the armies of David and Ish-bosheth, resulting in the defeat of Abner's army. Notable events include the death of Asahel, the brother of Joab, and the escape of Abner. Key verses such as 2 Samuel 2:1 and 2 Samuel 2:4 highlight David's reliance on God's guidance and his anointing as king.

Context for the Chapter

This chapter is part of the larger narrative of 1 and 2 Samuel, which describes the transition from the period of the judges to the monarchy in Israel. The chapter follows the death of King Saul and the establishment of David as king over Judah, setting the stage for the eventual reunification of Israel under David's rule. The events of this chapter are also connected to the broader biblical narrative, as they foreshadow the coming of Christ, who would establish a kingdom that would never end (2 Samuel 7:12-13, Hebrews 1:1-3).

Heart Application

As we read about David's reliance on God's guidance, we are reminded of the importance of seeking God's will in our own lives. We should strive to be like David, inquiring of the Lord and trusting in His sovereignty, especially in times of uncertainty or conflict. By doing so, we can experience God's peace and guidance, just as David did (Philippians 4:6-7).

What Does This Chapter Mean?

This chapter is about David becoming the king of Judah after King Saul died. David asked God if he should go to one of the cities of Judah, and God told him to go to Hebron. There, David was made king, and he started to rule over Judah. Meanwhile, another king, Ish-bosheth, was made king over Israel, and there was a fight between David's army and Ish-bosheth's army. David's army won, and this showed that God was with David. We can learn from David's example by seeking God's guidance in our lives, just like David did in 2 Samuel 2:1.

Voices from the Church

“The grand thing to do is to inquire of the Lord. If you are in doubt, wait until you have an answer from God. If you are in difficulty, go to God, and say, 'Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?'”

— Charles Spurgeon

“David's kingdom was established by God, and he was anointed by God. In the same way, Christ's kingdom was established by God, and He was anointed by God to be our King and Lord.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

  1. David Inquires of the Lord (2 Samuel 2:1-7) — David asks God if he should go up to any of the cities of Judah, and God instructs him to go to Hebron. This passage highlights David's reliance on God's guidance and will.
  2. David is Anointed King (2 Samuel 2:4) — The men of Judah come to Hebron and anoint David as their king, marking the beginning of his reign over Judah.
  3. Abner Establishes Ish-bosheth as King (2 Samuel 2:8-17) — Abner, the commander of Saul's army, makes Ish-bosheth king over Israel, leading to a conflict between the armies of David and Ish-bosheth.
  4. The Conflict Between the Armies (2 Samuel 2:12-17) — The armies of David and Ish-bosheth clash, resulting in the defeat of Abner's army and the death of Asahel, Joab's brother.
  5. The Aftermath of the Conflict (2 Samuel 2:18-32) — The chapter concludes with the escape of Abner and the burial of Asahel, setting the stage for the ongoing conflict between the house of David and the house of Saul.

Core Doctrines

The Sovereignty of God
This chapter teaches that God is sovereign over all events, including the establishment of kings and the outcome of battles. As seen in 2 Samuel 2:1, God guides David's actions and determines the course of history.
The Importance of Seeking God's Guidance
The chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking God's will and guidance, as demonstrated by David's inquiries of the Lord. This is a key aspect of the Christian life, as we are called to trust in God's sovereignty and seek His guidance in all things (Proverbs 3:5-6).
The Establishment of the Kingdom of God
The chapter foreshadows the establishment of Christ's kingdom, which would be established by God and would never end. As seen in 2 Samuel 7:12-13, God promises to establish David's throne forever, which is fulfilled in Christ.
The Role of Human Leaders
The chapter highlights the role of human leaders, such as David and Abner, in carrying out God's will and establishing His kingdom. However, it also emphasizes the importance of submitting to God's sovereignty and seeking His guidance in all things.

Lessons from 2 Samuel 2

  1. The Importance of Seeking God's Guidance — This chapter teaches us the importance of seeking God's will and guidance in our lives, just as David did in 2 Samuel 2:1.
  2. The Role of Human Leaders — The chapter highlights the role of human leaders in carrying out God's will and establishing His kingdom, while also emphasizing the importance of submitting to God's sovereignty.
  3. The Establishment of the Kingdom of God — The chapter foreshadows the establishment of Christ's kingdom, which would be established by God and would never end. As seen in 2 Samuel 7:12-13, God promises to establish David's throne forever, which is fulfilled in Christ.
  4. The Conflict Between Good and Evil — The conflict between the armies of David and Ish-bosheth represents the larger struggle between good and evil, with David's side ultimately being victorious due to God's favor.
  5. The Importance of Trusting in God's Sovereignty — The chapter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty, even in times of uncertainty or conflict. As seen in 2 Samuel 2:1, David trusts in God's guidance and will, and is ultimately victorious.

Themes from 2 Samuel 2

  1. The Sovereignty of God — This chapter teaches that God is sovereign over all events, including the establishment of kings and the outcome of battles. As seen in 2 Samuel 2:1, God guides David's actions and determines the course of history.
  2. The Importance of Seeking God's Guidance — The chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking God's will and guidance, as demonstrated by David's inquiries of the Lord. This is a key aspect of the Christian life, as we are called to trust in God's sovereignty and seek His guidance in all things (Proverbs 3:5-6).
  3. The Establishment of the Kingdom of God — The chapter foreshadows the establishment of Christ's kingdom, which would be established by God and would never end. As seen in 2 Samuel 7:12-13, God promises to establish David's throne forever, which is fulfilled in Christ.
  4. The Role of Human Leaders — The chapter highlights the role of human leaders, such as David and Abner, in carrying out God's will and establishing His kingdom. However, it also emphasizes the importance of submitting to God's sovereignty and seeking His guidance in all things.
  5. The Conflict Between Good and Evil — The conflict between the armies of David and Ish-bosheth represents the larger struggle between good and evil, with David's side ultimately being victorious due to God's favor.

Questions for Meditation

  1. What can we learn from David's example of inquiring of the Lord in 2 Samuel 2:1?
  2. How does the conflict between the armies of David and Ish-bosheth relate to the larger biblical narrative?
  3. What role does Abner play in the chapter, and what can we learn from his actions?
  4. How does the establishment of David's kingdom foreshadow the establishment of Christ's kingdom?
  5. What are some ways we can apply the lessons of this chapter to our own lives, particularly in terms of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His sovereignty?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. Introduction: David Inquires of the Lord (2 Samuel 2:1-7)

2:1 David inquires of the Lord, asking if he should go up to any of the cities of Judah. This passage highlights David's reliance on God's guidance and will.
2:2 The men of Judah come to Hebron and anoint David as their king, marking the beginning of his reign over Judah.

2. The Anointing of David as King (2 Samuel 2:4)

2:4 The men of Judah anoint David as their king, signifying his official recognition as king over Judah.

3. Abner Establishes Ish-bosheth as King (2 Samuel 2:8-17)

2:8 Abner, the commander of Saul's army, makes Ish-bosheth king over Israel, leading to a conflict between the armies of David and Ish-bosheth.
2:12 The armies of David and Ish-bosheth clash, resulting in the defeat of Abner's army and the death of Asahel, Joab's brother.

4. The Conflict Between the Armies (2 Samuel 2:12-17)

2:13 The armies of David and Ish-bosheth meet at the pool of Gibeon, leading to a fierce battle.
2:17 The battle is intense, but David's army emerges victorious, with Abner and his men fleeing.

5. The Aftermath of the Conflict (2 Samuel 2:18-32)

2:18 Asahel, Joab's brother, is killed by Abner, leading to a desire for revenge from Joab.
2:23 Abner kills Asahel, but later escapes and joins David's side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did David inquire of the Lord in 2 Samuel 2:1?

David inquired of the Lord to seek God's guidance and will, demonstrating his trust in God's sovereignty. This is evident in 2 Samuel 2:1, where David asks if he should go up to any of the cities of Judah.

Who was Abner, and what role did he play in the chapter?

Abner was the commander of Saul's army, and he played a significant role in the chapter by establishing Ish-bosheth as king over Israel. However, his efforts ultimately failed, as seen in 2 Samuel 2:17.

What can we learn from the conflict between the armies of David and Ish-bosheth?

The conflict between the armies of David and Ish-bosheth represents the larger struggle between good and evil, with David's side ultimately being victorious due to God's favor. This teaches us the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty, even in times of uncertainty or conflict.

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 2 Samuel 2:1 → Psalm 37:3-7 Both passages emphasize the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and seeking His guidance in all things.
2 2 Samuel 2:4 → 1 Samuel 16:13 Both passages describe the anointing of David as king, highlighting God's sovereignty in establishing human leaders.
3 2 Samuel 2:12 → Joshua 10:12-14 Both passages describe a significant battle, with God intervening on behalf of His people.
4 2 Samuel 2:17 → Proverbs 21:31 Both passages emphasize the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty, rather than in human strength or military might.
5 2 Samuel 2:1 → John 1:1 Both passages highlight the importance of seeking God's guidance and will, with David inquiring of the Lord and Jesus being the ultimate expression of God's will.
6 2 Samuel 2:4 → Hebrews 1:1-3 Both passages describe the establishment of a kingdom, with David's kingdom foreshadowing the establishment of Christ's kingdom.
7 2 Samuel 2:12 → Ephesians 6:12 Both passages describe a spiritual conflict, with the armies of David and Ish-bosheth representing the larger struggle between good and evil.
8 2 Samuel 2:17 → Romans 8:28 Both passages emphasize the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty, even in times of uncertainty or conflict.
9 2 Samuel 2:1 → Psalm 23:1-4 Both passages describe God's guidance and care for His people, with David trusting in God's sovereignty and Jesus being the ultimate Shepherd.
10 2 Samuel 2:4 → 1 Corinthians 1:30 Both passages describe the anointing of a king, with David being anointed by God and Jesus being the ultimate Anointed One.

Sermons on 2 Samuel 2

SermonDescription
Jack Hyles Jack Hyles Fresh Oil Part 1 by Jack Hyles This sermon emphasizes the importance of being anointed with fresh oil, drawing parallels to King David's anointing as a symbol of God's empowerment and calling. It shares a person
Joshua Daniel 1 Samuel 4:13 by Joshua Daniel This sermon emphasizes the importance of trembling for the presence of God, using the story of Eli and his sons as a cautionary tale. It highlights the consequences of hidden sin a
David Guzik (1 Samuel) How to Not Fight Back by David Guzik In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of David playing the harp for King Saul. He highlights the stark contrast between David's submission to God and Saul's violent natur
David Guzik (2 Samuel) More Anointing, More War by David Guzik In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the need for Christians to have a mature understanding of the spiritual battle they face. He uses the example of a young man in military tra
David Guzik (2 Samuel) Believing and Living by David Guzik In this sermon, the speaker encourages the audience to yield their lives to God and take action in following His calling. They emphasize the importance of not delaying in doing wha
Chuck Smith David Lamenting Over the Death of Saul Part 2 by Chuck Smith In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith reflects on the lamentation of David over the death of Saul. He emphasizes the beauty and might of Israel that has been lost. Pastor Chuck also m
Zac Poonen (Through the Bible) 2 Samuel by Zac Poonen This sermon delves into the life of David as depicted in 2 Samuel, highlighting his reign, victories, fall into sin, and family struggles. It emphasizes the importance of studying
Mike Bickle Overview of the Life of David: The Five Key Cities and Seasons by Mike Bickle Mike Bickle emphasizes the dramatic life of David, exploring the five key cities that represent different seasons in his journey. He highlights how David, despite being overlooked
Mike Bickle David Anointed King in Hebron: Civil War (2 Sam. 2-4) by Mike Bickle Mike Bickle discusses the anointing of David as king in Hebron following Saul's death, emphasizing David's reliance on God's direction and his commitment to divine diplomacy amidst
Mike Bickle Times of Preparation and Testing: Five Seasons in David's Life by Mike Bickle Mike Bickle explores the five significant seasons in King David's life, emphasizing how each season presented unique tests that shaped his character and relationship with God. Desp

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 2 Samuel 2

In this chapter, we see the beginning of David's reign as king over Judah, with God guiding his actions and determining the course of history. The conflict between the armies of David and Ish-bosheth represents the larger struggle between good and evil, with David's side ultimately being victorious due to God's favor. As Matthew Henry notes, 'The Lord is the giver of victory, and He gives it to whom He pleases.' This chapter teaches us the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His sovereignty, even in times of uncertainty or conflict. By doing so, we can experience God's peace and guidance, just as David did. As Henry comments, 'Those who trust in God shall never be confounded, but those who trust in men shall be ashamed.' Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

David's Reliance on God

Throughout the chapter, David consistently inquires of the Lord, demonstrating his trust in God's sovereignty and guidance. This is evident in 2 Samuel 2:1, where David asks if he should go up to any of the cities of Judah.

The Division of Israel

The chapter highlights the division between the house of David and the house of Saul, foreshadowing the eventual split of the kingdom. This division is seen in the conflict between the armies of David and Ish-bosheth (2 Samuel 2:12-17).

The Role of Abner

Abner, the commander of Saul's army, plays a significant role in the chapter, as he attempts to establish Ish-bosheth as king over Israel. However, his efforts ultimately fail, as seen in 2 Samuel 2:17.

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