Free group study handout
2 Samuel 15: Group Study Handout
How to use: read 2 Samuel 15 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.
Overview
Absalom prepares for power by gathering a chariot, horses, and fifty men to run before him (vv. 1-2). He stands at the gate, intercepting people seeking the king's judgment and claiming he could do better (vv.
Key verse
“David said to all his servants who were with him at Jerusalem, “Arise, and let us flee; or else none of us will escape from Absalom. Hurry to depart, lest he overtake us quickly, and bring down evil on us, and strike the city with the edge of the sword.”
2 Samuel 15:14 (WEB)
Outline
- 2 Samuel 15:1–6 Absalom's Rise to Power
- 2 Samuel 15:7–12 Absalom's Deception
- 2 Samuel 15:13–19 David Learns of the Rebellion
- 2 Samuel 15:20–30 David's Departure
- 2 Samuel 15:31–37 David's Strategic Moves
Discussion questions
- In v6, how does Absalom win the hearts of the men of Israel?
- What does David do in v14 when he hears of Absalom's conspiracy?
- Absalom's invitation in vv. 9-10 to declare him king: what does this say about his intentions?
- David's response in v31 to Ahithophel joining Absalom: what does this indicate about his trust in God?
- When have you supported a leader because they seemed more accessible, as Absalom did?
Go deeper
Passages that echo 2 Samuel 15: Psalm 33, 2 Samuel 17, 2 Samuel 16.
Before next time: read 2 Samuel 16.