2 Samuel 17:1
Furthermore, Ahithophel said to Absalom, "Let me choose twelve thousand men and set out tonight in pursuit of David.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of 2 Samuel 17:1?

2. How does Ahithophel's advice in 2 Samuel 17:1 reflect worldly wisdom?

3. What can we learn about seeking God's guidance from 2 Samuel 17:1?

4. How does Ahithophel's plan contrast with God's sovereignty in 2 Samuel?

5. How can we discern godly counsel from worldly advice in our lives?

6. What scriptural principles guide us in making decisions like David faced?

7. What does 2 Samuel 17:1 reveal about Ahithophel's character and intentions?

8. How does Ahithophel's counsel in 2 Samuel 17:1 reflect on his wisdom and influence?

9. Why did Ahithophel propose to pursue David with twelve thousand men in 2 Samuel 17:1?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 2 Samuel 17?

11. In 2 Samuel 17:1–4, is there any archaeological evidence or external record supporting Ahithophel’s plan to immediately strike David, or is this strategy purely literary?

12. Who was Ahithophel in the Bible?

13. How do we reconcile the differences between 1 Chronicles 17 and 2 Samuel 7 regarding the details of God's covenant with David?

14. If Hushai’s counsel (2 Samuel 17:7–14) was so clearly delayed and risky, why would Absalom reject Ahithophel’s seemingly superior military advice without further scrutiny?
Discussion Questions
1. How does Ahithophel's counsel to Absalom reflect the potential for human wisdom to be misused? Can you think of a time when you relied on human wisdom instead of seeking God's guidance?

2. In what ways does David's response to Ahithophel's betrayal demonstrate his faith in God? How can we apply this to our own experiences of betrayal or conflict?

3. How does the account of Absalom's rebellion and Ahithophel's counsel illustrate the theme of God's sovereignty? Can you find other biblical examples where God's plans prevailed over human intentions?

4. What can we learn from David's reliance on prayer during his flight from Absalom? How can prayer be a source of strength in your own life during difficult times?

5. Reflect on the consequences of Absalom's rebellion. How does this account encourage us to respect and honor God-given authority in our lives?1. Compare and contrast Ahithophel's and Hushai's counsel. How does their advice reflect their characters and loyalties?

2. How can you see God's providence at work in this chapter? Identify specific instances.

3. How do the decisions made by Ahithophel and Hushai reflect on their understanding of leadership and power?

4. How does Absalom evaluate the advice he receives? What does this tell us about his character?

5. Ahithophel commits suicide when his advice is not taken. What does this tell us about his character and his faith in God?

6. How can we trust in God's providence in our own lives, especially when facing adversarial situations?

7. What can we learn from David's trust in God despite being pursued by his own son?

8. In today's world, how can we discern when to follow certain advice or reject it?

9. What practical lessons can we draw from the woman in Bahurim's act of quick thinking and bravery?

10. What does this chapter teach us about the consequences of our choices and actions?

11. How does this chapter inform our understanding of justice and mercy in the Biblical context?

12. How would you respond to a situation where someone used deceit for a good cause, similar to Hushai's strategy?

13. What does the provision for David's troops teach us about community support in times of crisis?

14. In the face of seemingly overwhelming opposition, how can we cultivate a heart like David's, trusting in God's deliverance?

15. How does Hushai's loyalty to David inspire you to loyalty in your relationships?

16. How does this chapter speak to the Christian understanding of divine justice?

17. How can we apply the principle of "waiting on the Lord's deliverance" in our own lives?

18. What steps can we take to make wise decisions when we receive conflicting advice, as Absalom did?

19. How does this chapter challenge our understanding of life's trials and God's providence?

20. How can the story of 2 Samuel 17 inspire our prayers in times of personal crisis?

Links
2 Samuel 17:1 NIV
2 Samuel 17:1 NLT
2 Samuel 17:1 ESV
2 Samuel 17:1 NASB
2 Samuel 17:1 KJV

2 Samuel 17:1 Commentaries

Bible Hub
2 Samuel 16:23
Top of Page
Top of Page