“2 Samuel 13–14: The Sins of David’s Children,” Old Testament Seminary Student Study Guide (2002), 102–13
“2 Samuel 13–14,” Old Testament Seminary Student Study Guide , 102–13
2 Samuel 13–14
The Sins of David’s Children
Sin always affects those around us—especially our families. Often the parents’ example has an impact on the way their children behave. Even more, when parents set a bad example, correcting the same bad behavior in their children is very difficult. As you read 2 Samuel 13–14 , think about how the actions of David’s sons are similar to his own. Consider also what you might have done if you were in these situations.
Fair (v. 1 ) Beautiful
Vexed (v. 2 ) Frustrated, obsessed
Subtil (v. 3 ) Devious
Lean (v. 4 ) Tired and upset
Folly (v. 12 ) Mistake
He will not withhold me from thee (v. 13 ) He would let you marry me
Divers (vv. 18–19 ) Many different
Apparelled (v. 18 ) Clothed
Regard not this thing (v. 20 ) Don’t make a public display
Desolate (v. 20 ) Extremely sad
Chargeable (v. 25 ) A burden
Pressed (v. 27 ) Urged, kept asking
Longed (v. 39 ) Wanted
The king’s heart was toward Absalom (v. 1 ) David loved and thought about Absalom.
Feign (v. 2 ) Pretend
Aileth (v. 5 ) Troubles
Strove (v. 6 ) Fought
Slew (vv. 6–7 ) Killed
Heir (v. 7 ) One who lived
Quench my coal (v. 7 ) Put out my fire (A phrase that means “leave me without hope”)
Remainder (v. 7 ) Children
Charge (v. 8 ) An order, a decree
Faulty (v. 13 ) Guilty of the same thing
Fetch (v. 13 ) Bring
Devise (v. 14 ) Think and plan
Banished (vv. 13–14 ) Sent away
Expelled (v. 14 ) Cast out
Therefore (v. 15 ) This is the reason
Discern (v. 17 ) See the difference between
Polled (v. 26 ) Shaved
President Ezra Taft Benson said:
“There is no lasting happiness in immorality. … Just the opposite is true. There may be momentary pleasure. … But quickly the relationship will sour. Guilt and shame set in. … Love begins to die. Bitterness, jealousy, anger, and even hate begin to grow. All of these are the natural results of sin and transgression.
“On the other hand, when we obey the law of chastity and keep ourselves morally clean, we will experience the blessings of increased love and peace, greater trust and respect for our marital partners, deeper commitment to each other, and, therefore, a deep and significant sense of joy and happiness” (“The Law of Chastity,” in Brigham Young University 1987–88 Devotional and Fireside Speeches [1988], 51).
Do activity A as you study 2 Samuel 13–14 .
Read and Answer
Read 2 Samuel 14:14 and answer this question: What “means” (plans) has God “devised” (created) to help those who are “banished” (out of his presence) so they are not permanently “expelled” (driven out) from him?