Chapter Summary

The recall of Absalom and David's forgiveness.

Discussion Questions for 2 Samuel, Chapter 14

1. In verse 1, Joab perceives that King David longs to see Absalom. What does this longing reveal about the complexity of family relationships? What are some difficult family situations you have seen in your life or others?
2. Reflecting on verse 2, Joab sends for a wise woman from Tekoa to help him execute his plan. How can wisdom and discernment play a role in addressing difficult situations in our lives?
3. In verse 3, Joab instructs the woman to pretend to be in mourning and tell a certain story to the king. What ethical considerations arise when using deception to achieve a perceived good?
4. In verse 9, the woman of Tekoa tells David that any blame for her request should fall on her. What does this willingness to take on blame teach us about responsibility and advocacy for others?
5. In verse 13, the woman questions why David does not bring back his banished son. How can we address our own inconsistencies and apply the same principles of justice and mercy to ourselves and others?
6. Verse 14 emphasizes that God devises ways so that a banished person does not remain estranged from Him. How does this verse reflect God’s heart for reconciliation, and how can we pursue reconciliation in our own relationships?
7. In verse 17, the woman praises David’s wisdom and discernment. What role does wisdom play in leadership, and how can we cultivate wisdom in our own lives?
8. In verse 21, David agrees to bring Absalom back but does not allow him to see his face. What does this partial reconciliation teach us about the challenges and limitations of forgiveness and restoration?
9. In verses 25-26, Absalom is described as handsome and admired for his physical appearance. How do external appearances influence our perceptions of others, and how can we look beyond appearances to understand true character?
10. Reflecting on verse 30, Absalom sets Joab’s field on fire to get his attention. What does this drastic action reveal about Absalom’s state of mind, and how do we address our own frustrations and seek attention in healthy ways?

Key Words/Phrase

Forgiven, v. 33.

Characters

God, David, Joab, Absalom, woman of Tekoah, Tanrar.

Strong Verse(s)

14