Question

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2 Samuel Lesson 20 (2023)

DAVID RETURNS TO JERUSALEM

(2 Samuel 19:9-43)

Open it:

1. What, in your opinion, is the right balance between justice and mercy for criminals?

Explore it:

1. Read verses 9-15. What was the sentiment among the Israelites who had fled to their homes after the death of their leader, Absalom? (9-10) To what did David appeal to get the leaders to name him king again? (11-12) How did David’s overtures affect the people of Israel and their leaders? (13-15)

2. Read verses 16-23. What was the attitude of Shimei, who had cursed David on his way out of the city? (16-20) How did Abishai think Shimei should be treated now that David was victorious? (21) Why did David rebuke Abishai, and what promise did David make to Shimei? (22-23) How is mercy more conducive to building a consensus than vengeance?

3. Read verses 24-30. What was Mephibosheth’s explanation of why he hadn’t followed David when David retreated from the city? (24-27) How did David’s reaction to Mephibosheth indicate that he wasn’t sure whom to believe? (28-29)

4. Read verses 31-40. Why was David eager to reward Barzillai the Gileadite? (31-33) Why was Barzillai not eager to accept the king’s generosity for himself? (34-37) Whom did Barzillai ask David to reward in his stead? (38-40)

5. Read verses 41-43. How would you characterize the disputing between the people of Israel and Judah once the kingship was restored? Is it more challenging to deal with friends or enemies from a position of power?

Apply it:

1. What habits of thought and prayer can enable you to forgive a former enemy?

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Attachment

• 2 Sam-21q (2023).docx

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