2 Samuel 20:11
And one of Joab’s men stood by him, and said, He that favoureth Joab, and he that is for David, let him go after Joab.
2 Samuel 20:11 (KJV)
Context
This verse belongs to the story of Sheba’s rebellion in 2 Samuel 20. After Absalom’s death, Sheba, a Benjamite, leads a revolt against King David. David appoints Amasa as commander, but Joab treacherously kills Amasa and leaves his body in the roadway. The soldiers stop to gather around the body, and the pursuit of Sheba stalls. In this moment, one of Joab’s men stands by the body and calls out to the troops.
Meaning
The man’s words are a rallying cry. He declares that anyone who favours Joab and is for David should follow Joab. This statement links loyalty to Joab with loyalty to David. It presents support for Joab as the practical way to support the king. The call also serves to move the soldiers past Amasa’s body and continue the chase. It reasserts Joab’s authority as commander of David’s army. The cry is a test of loyalty, demanding that the soldiers choose a side and follow their leader. Joab is portrayed as skilled and loyal, yet also ruthless and decisive.
Biblical connections
Joab’s loyalty to David appears throughout 2 Samuel, yet his methods are often ruthless. Here, his man’s cry treats loyalty to Joab and loyalty to David as one. This connection is not automatic in Scripture; it depends on the leader’s faithfulness to God’s anointed king. The verse also echoes the earlier call in 2 Samuel 20:2, where the men of Israel leave David to follow Sheba. Now the call is reversed, urging the troops to return to David’s side. The immediate purpose is to prevent the army from disbanding and to ensure the rebellion is crushed.
Application
This verse challenges us to examine where our loyalty truly stands. The soldiers had to choose a side in a time of civil strife. We also face moments that test our allegiance to God and His purposes. Not every claim of support is genuine, so we must discern the character of those we follow. Our ultimate loyalty belongs to God above any human leader.
Discerning loyalty: We should test the intentions of those who ask for our support, just as the troops had to decide whom to follow.
Loyalty to God: Our commitment to God should guide our actions and relationships, even when human leaders fail.
Reflection
Consider the cost of loyalty. Joab’s men had to leave the body of Amasa and press on. Following God may require us to leave behind distractions or even past loyalties. The call to follow is clear, but it demands courage and resolve. May we respond with faithful hearts, ready to go after the one God has placed to lead His people.
