Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible
2 Samuel Ch.2 / 24 Ch.s
2SA:2
* David made king in Hebron. (1-7) Abner makes Ishbosheth king
Battle between Abner's men and those of Joab. (8-17) Asahel
slain by Abner: 25-32. Both parties retreat. (18-24)
#1-7. After the death of Saul, many went to David at Ziklag,
#1Ch 12:22|, but he trusted in God who promised him the kingdom,
to give it in his own time and manner. Yet assurance of hope in
God's promise, will quicken pious endeavours. If I be chosen to
the crown of life, it does not follow, Then I will do nothing;
but, Then I will do all that God directs me. This good use David
made of his election, and so will all whom God has chosen. In
all our journeys and removes, it is comfortable to see God going
before us; and we may do so, if by faith and prayer we set Him
before us. God, according to the promise, directed David's path.
David rose gradually: thus the kingdom of the Messiah, the Son
of David, is set up by degrees; he is Lord of all, but we see
not yet all things put under him.
#8-17. The nation in general refused David. By this the Lord
trained up his servant for future honour and usefulness; and the
tendency of true godliness was shown in his behaviour while
passing through various difficulties. David was herein a type of
Christ, whom Israel would not submit to, though anointed of the
Father to be a Prince and a Saviour to them. Abner meant, Let
the young men fight before us, when he said, Let them play
before us: fools thus make a mock at sin. But he is unworthy the
name of a man, that can thus trifle with human blood.
#18-24 Death often comes by ways we least suspect. We are often
betrayed by the accomplishments we are proud of! Asahel's
swiftness, which he presumed so much upon, did him no service,
but hastened his end.
#25-32 Abner appeals to Joab concerning the miserable
consequences of a civil war. Those who make light of such
unnatural contests, will find that they are bitterness to all
concerned. How easy it is for men to use reason, when it makes
for them, who would not use it, if it made against them! See how
the issue of things alter men's minds! The same thing which
looked pleasant in the morning, at night looked dismal. Those
who are most forward to enter into contention, will repent
before they have done with it, and had better leave it off
before it be meddled with, as Solomon advises. This is true of
every sin, oh that men would consider it in time, that it will
be bitterness in the latter end! Asahel's funeral is here
mentioned. Distinctions are made between the dust of some and
that of others; but in the resurrection no difference will be
made, but between the godly and ungodly, which will remain for
ever.