“And after that David heard it, and said, I and my kingdom are guiltless before the LORD for ever, from the blood of Abner the son of Ner.”
This verse is part of a larger narrative in the book of 2 Samuel that describes the events following the death of King Saul and the subsequent rise of David as king of Israel. In this particular passage, David is responding to the news of the murder of Abner, the commander of Saul’s army, by Joab, David’s nephew and commander of his own forces.
Here are some key points to consider in a Bible study of this verse:
- Context: Prior to this verse, Abner had defected from Saul’s house to join David’s side, recognizing that God had anointed David as the rightful king. However, tensions between Abner and Joab persisted due to a previous personal vendetta. Joab saw Abner’s allegiance as a threat and took revenge by treacherously killing him.
- David’s response: Upon learning of Abner’s murder, David expresses his innocence and disavows any responsibility for the crime. He declares himself and his kingdom guiltless before the Lord concerning Abner’s bloodshed.
- David’s desire for peace: David was known as a man of war, but he also sought to establish peace and unity in Israel. He mourned Abner’s death, recognizing that it was a blow to the potential reconciliation between the northern and southern tribes of Israel. David wanted to distance himself from this act of violence to maintain his moral standing and pursue his goal of national unity.
- Acknowledgment of God’s role: David’s statement about his kingdom being guiltless before the Lord forever suggests his trust in God’s justice and protection. He asserts that the responsibility for Abner’s death lies solely with Joab, and David’s intentions and actions are clear in God’s sight.
Overall:2 Samuel 3:28 showcases David’s desire for peace, his commitment to justice, and his recognition of God’s sovereignty. It serves as a reminder to us to strive for righteousness and to place our trust in God, even in the face of difficult circumstances.
