September 23, 2012 – 2 Samuel 3

What an episode.  Abner, the enemy for so long of David, is insulted and turns sides.  He goes to David and with his influence determines that he can make David king of all Israel and end the war.  David agrees and allows Abner to leave.  He treats Abner much like he treated Saul.  There is this sense of respect for his elders, not just those that were anointed by God.  We see the same respect for Joab, not killing him for what he did, and after Joab’s brother died.  Joab comes and finds out that Abner was here and left.  Joab calls him back and takes revenge for his brother’s death.  We also forget that Abner never wanted to kill the brother.  The brother chased him and Abner told him to go left or right and stop following, but he refused.  Joab was unaware that the war would be over if Abner did as he said he was going to.  You can picture the scene (and I still think David’s life would be a great season long TV show) but Abner returns and sees Joab.  Abner is delighted, thinking they are at peace, feeling the war is over.  Joab only sees his brother’s killer.  Abnner goes to embrace Joab and is stabbed.  Abner’s face goes from joy to surprise to sadness in a few seconds.  Then picture the scene when David finds out and Joab is remanded and understands the consequences.  What a great 30 minutes of TV that would all entail.