Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for August 5, 2018

“The Kingdom: Under Divine Protection”   2 Samuel 17:1-29   Bible Study   08/05/18

This morning we will focus on a chapter which records an account of God’s kingdom under attack. In the midst of rebellion and intrigue, the kingdom appears “iffy” and vulnerable, given the brazen machinations of Absalom and Ahithopel. However, 2 Samuel 17 indicates that God’s people can have strong confidence and sweet consolation even in days when the kingdom is threatened. No one and nothing can overthrow or terminate God’s kingdom plan. This assurance has sustained saints of every generation.

I. The Mysterious Sovereignty of God (1-14)

• advice of Ahithopel (1-4)

♦ four-step plan
♦ connect to 16:23

• advice of Hushai (5-14)

♦ not his time
♦ appeals to logic, caution, vanity and vengeance

• Absalom’s response
• a discreet aside

II. The Protective Providence of God (15-29)

• getting the message to David (15-16)
• messengers seen and hidden (17-20)
• news reaches David (21-22)
• Yahweh at work for David
• demise of Ahithopel (23)
• arrival and support of loyal subjects (24-29)

III. So What?

• Because God keeps His promises and protects His people, make sure your ultimate security rests in Him and His kingdom “that cannot be shaken.”
• Worship with reverence and awe (Heb. 12:28-29).
• Ponder the providence of God in your life that reveals His sovereignty.
• “God moves in a mysterious way His wonders to perform; He plants His footsteps in the sea and rides upon the storm. Deep in unfathomable mines of never failing skill He treasures up His bright designs and works His sovereign will. Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take; the clouds ye so much dread are big with mercy and shall break in blessings on your head.” (Cowper)
• Affirm and regularly confess your subjection to the King and His kingdom.