2 Samuel 15:34

But you can thwart the counsel of Ahithophel for me if you return to the city and say to Absalom: 'I will be your servant, my king; in the past I was your father's servant, but now I will be your servant.'

Study Bible

But if you return to the city
The phrase "return to the city" refers to David's strategic instruction to Hushai, his loyal friend, to go back to Jerusalem. The Hebrew root for "return" is "שׁוּב" (shuv), which often implies a turning back or repentance. In this context, it signifies a physical return with a purpose. Jerusalem, the city, is not just a geographical location but the heart of Israel's political and spiritual life. Hushai's return is a calculated move in the unfolding drama of Absalom's rebellion, highlighting the importance of strategic wisdom in times of crisis.

and say to Absalom
Absalom, whose name means "father of peace" in Hebrew, ironically becomes a source of conflict and division. The instruction to speak directly to Absalom underscores the personal nature of the rebellion. It is a reminder of the intimate and often painful dynamics of family and leadership. The act of speaking to Absalom is not just a political maneuver but a deeply personal engagement with a son who has turned against his father, King David.

‘I will be your servant, O king!
The declaration "I will be your servant" is a profound act of humility and subterfuge. The Hebrew word for "servant" is "עֶבֶד" (eved), which denotes a position of submission and loyalty. By addressing Absalom as "O king," Hushai acknowledges Absalom's current position of power, albeit temporarily. This phrase reflects the complex interplay of loyalty and deception, as Hushai's true allegiance remains with David, yet he must present himself as a loyal servant to Absalom to fulfill his mission.

Just as I was your father’s servant in the past
This phrase draws a parallel between Hushai's past service to David and his feigned service to Absalom. It emphasizes continuity and reliability, traits highly valued in a servant. The historical context here is crucial; Hushai had been a trusted advisor to David, and his past loyalty is now being leveraged in a new and challenging context. This reflects the biblical theme of faithfulness and the sometimes complex paths it may take.

so I will now be your servant
The repetition of the commitment to be a servant reinforces the sincerity of Hushai's offer, at least in Absalom's eyes. It is a strategic affirmation designed to gain Absalom's trust. The phrase "now be your servant" indicates a present and active role, suggesting immediacy and urgency in the unfolding events. This highlights the necessity of adaptability and wisdom in serving God's purposes, even in difficult circumstances.

then you can thwart the counsel of Ahithophel for me
The word "thwart" is key here, as it signifies the act of countering or nullifying. Ahithophel, whose counsel was highly esteemed, represents worldly wisdom and influence. The Hebrew root for "thwart" is "פָּרַר" (parar), meaning to break or frustrate. Hushai's mission is to disrupt Ahithophel's plans, which aligns with the biblical theme of God using the faithful to confound the wisdom of the world. This phrase encapsulates the spiritual battle between divine purpose and human schemes, reminding believers of the power of God to overturn the plans of the wicked through faithful servants.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel, who is fleeing from his son Absalom's rebellion. He is the one orchestrating the plan to thwart Ahithophel's counsel.

2. Absalom
David's son, who has declared himself king in Hebron and is attempting to usurp David's throne.

3. Hushai the Archite
A loyal friend and advisor to King David, who is sent back to Jerusalem to act as a spy and counter the advice of Ahithophel.

4. Ahithophel
A highly esteemed counselor whose advice is considered almost as if one had consulted the word of God. He has defected to Absalom's side.

5. Jerusalem
The city where Absalom has set up his temporary rule and where Hushai is sent to carry out David's plan.

Teaching Points

Loyalty and Wisdom
Hushai's loyalty to David is a testament to the importance of wise counsel and loyalty to God's anointed. In our lives, we should seek to be loyal to God's purposes and wise in our actions.

God's Sovereignty
Despite human schemes, God's plans prevail. We can trust that God is in control, even when circumstances seem dire.

Strategic Thinking in Faith
David's strategic use of Hushai shows that faith does not preclude the use of wisdom and strategy. Believers are called to be shrewd and discerning in their actions.

The Power of Influence
The account highlights the power of influence and counsel. We should be mindful of the advice we give and receive, ensuring it aligns with God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hushai's role in David's plan demonstrate the importance of loyalty and wisdom in our relationships and service to others?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in the unfolding events of 2 Samuel 15, and how can this encourage us in our own lives?

3. How can we apply the principle of strategic thinking in our faith journey, as demonstrated by David's plan to counter Ahithophel's counsel?

4. Reflect on a time when you had to rely on wise counsel. How did it impact your decision-making, and what can you learn from Hushai's example?

5. Considering the influence of Ahithophel and Hushai, how can we ensure that the advice we give and receive is aligned with God's will and purpose?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 16:21-23
This passage describes David's early service to King Saul, drawing a parallel to Hushai's service to Absalom as a means of loyalty to David.

Proverbs 19:21
This verse speaks to the sovereignty of God's plans over human intentions, which is relevant to the thwarting of Ahithophel's counsel.

Romans 8:28
This New Testament verse highlights how God works all things for the good of those who love Him, similar to how David's plan ultimately serves God's purpose.