Absalom's Rebellion: A Divided Kingdom

2 Samuel chapters 13 and 14 detail the tragic unfolding of events within David's family following his sin with Bathsheba. Amnon, David's eldest son, lusts after and assaults his half-sister Tamar. David is angry but takes no decisive action. Tamar's full brother, Absalom, harbors deep resentment and waits for the opportune moment for revenge. After two years, Absalom orchestrates Amnon's murder. Fearing his father's wrath, Absalom flees to Geshur. After three years, David longs to see Absalom again, and through the cunning intervention of Joab and a wise woman from Tekoa, Absalom is eventually allowed to return to Jerusalem, though he is initially forbidden to see the king's face.

Discussion Questions:

1. How did David initially respond to Amnon's sin against Tamar? Why do you think he didn't take stronger action?
2. Describe Absalom's reaction to what happened to his sister. What does this reveal about his character?
3. Why did Absalom wait two full years before taking revenge on Amnon? What might have been his strategy?
4. How did Joab and the wise woman from Tekoa manipulate David into allowing Absalom to return? What does this say about David's weaknesses as a leader and a father at this point?
5. Even after returning to Jerusalem, Absalom was not allowed to see David for two more years. How do you think this period of separation affected their relationship?
6. What seeds of rebellion were sown in these chapters? How did unresolved sin and family dysfunction contribute to the growing conflict?
7. What lessons can we learn from David's failures as a parent in these chapters? How can parents strive to address conflict and sin within their families in a more godly way?
8. How do these chapters illustrate the long-term consequences of sin, not just for the individual who sins, but for their entire family and community?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, these chapters reveal the painful consequences of sin and the deep wounds that can be inflicted within families. We see the breakdown of communication, the festering of resentment, and the tragic outcomes of unresolved conflict. Lord, grant us wisdom and discernment in our own families. Help us to address sin and hurt with grace, truth, and a commitment to reconciliation. Give us the strength to forgive and to seek forgiveness. May our homes be places of love, healing, and unity, reflecting your own love for us. Amen.

This discussion is based on The One Year Bible Storybook by Virginia Muir.