2 Samuel 18: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 Samuel 18 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

David counted the people with him and appointed captains over them (vv. 1-2). He prepared to go into battle but was advised against it by the people, who felt his presence was too valuable (vv.

Key verse

“The king commanded Joab and Abishai and Ittai, saying, “Deal gently for my sake with the young man, even with Absalom.” All the people heard when the king commanded all the captains concerning Absalom.”
2 Samuel 18:5 (WEB)

Outline

2 Samuel 18:1–5 David organizes his army for battle
2 Samuel 18:6–10 The battle in the forest of Ephraim
2 Samuel 18:11–15 Absalom's fate
2 Samuel 18:16–21 The aftermath of Absalom's death
2 Samuel 18:22–27 Ahimaaz and the Cushite run to report
2 Samuel 18:28–33 David mourns for Absalom

Discussion questions

In v5, what does David command regarding the treatment of Absalom?
What happens to Absalom in vv. 9-10 as he encounters David's forces?
Joab's statement in v12 about not killing Absalom raises what tension between duty and personal loyalty?
In v33, what does David's lament for Absalom indicate about his feelings toward his son?
When has your loyalty to someone conflicted with your sense of duty, like David's with Absalom?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Samuel 18: 2 Samuel 19, 2 Samuel 14, 2 Samuel 15.

Before next time: read 2 Samuel 19.