2 Samuel 2:9 – “He made him king over Gilead, Ashuri and Jezreel, and also over Ephraim, Benjamin and all Israel.”
Extended Explanation:
In this verse, Abner, the commander of Saul’s army, makes Saul’s son, Ish-Bosheth, king over various regions in Israel. This move was part of Abner’s attempt to maintain control over Israel and preserve the house of Saul after Saul’s death. The areas listed—Gilead, Ashuri, Jezreel, Ephraim, and Benjamin—represent significant portions of Israel, meaning Abner was trying to unite much of the nation under Ish-Bosheth’s rule. However, this act was done in opposition to David, who had already been anointed king over Judah. Abner’s decision to crown Ish-Bosheth set the stage for a divided kingdom and conflict between the house of Saul and the house of David.
Historical Context:
At the time of Saul’s death, Israel was divided in both leadership and loyalty. David had already been anointed king of Judah, but the northern tribes, still loyal to Saul’s family, were not ready to accept David as king. Abner, who had been a close ally of Saul, sought to keep Saul’s dynasty alive by installing Ish-Bosheth as king. The regions mentioned in the verse were key areas in Israel, and by making Ish-Bosheth king over them, Abner was asserting his influence over a large part of the nation. This division between Ish-Bosheth’s kingdom and David’s rule in Judah created a power struggle that would last for several years.
Theological Implications:
This verse highlights the theme of human resistance to God’s will. David had already been chosen and anointed by God to be the king of Israel (1 Samuel 16:13), yet Abner’s actions show an attempt to establish human authority over divine will. The passage teaches that even when people try to create their own plans, God’s purpose will ultimately be fulfilled. The division of the kingdom and the ensuing conflict between David and Ish-Bosheth remind us that when we seek power or control apart from God’s plan, it often leads to conflict and disorder.
Literary Analysis:
The verse lists the specific regions where Ish-Bosheth was made king, highlighting the scope of Abner’s efforts to secure power. Each region mentioned had its own significance in Israel’s history and geography, and the inclusion of Ephraim and Benjamin—important tribes in Israel—shows the seriousness of Abner’s intentions to rival David’s kingship. The narrative here contrasts with the peaceful and God-ordained anointing of David as king over Judah, presenting a stark division between man’s efforts to maintain control and God’s plan for leadership.
Biblical Cross-References:
- 1 Samuel 16:13 – David’s anointing by Samuel demonstrates that God had already chosen him to be king over Israel, even though human forces resisted this.
- 2 Samuel 3:1 – This passage shows the ongoing conflict between the house of David and the house of Saul, which was fueled by Abner’s decision to set up Ish-Bosheth as king.
- Proverbs 19:21 – “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” This speaks directly to the situation of Abner trying to create a kingship apart from God’s chosen leader.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian:
For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder that human plans and ambitions can often conflict with God’s will. Abner’s attempt to install Ish-Bosheth as king, despite God’s clear choice of David, reflects our own tendency to seek control or pursue plans that may not align with what God has purposed. As believers, we are called to seek God’s will first and trust that His plan is best, even when circumstances around us suggest otherwise. This verse also highlights the importance of unity under God’s leadership, as division and conflict arise when people stray from His direction.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God:
This verse reflects God’s patience and love for His people, even when they resist His will. Despite Abner’s efforts to establish Ish-Bosheth as king, God’s plan for David to be the ruler of Israel would not be thwarted. God’s love is evident in His faithfulness to His promises, even when human actions create conflict and division. God’s patience with Israel during this period of division shows His desire to guide His people back to unity under His chosen leadership, ultimately for their good.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ:
Just as David was God’s chosen king for Israel, Jesus is the ultimate King chosen by God to rule over all. Yet, like Abner and Ish-Bosheth’s attempt to set up a rival kingdom, many people resisted and rejected Jesus during His earthly ministry (John 1:11). However, just as God’s plan for David eventually prevailed, so too did God’s plan for Jesus, who now reigns as the true and eternal King. Jesus’ kingdom is not one established by human power, but by God’s will, and His reign brings unity and peace to all who follow Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion:
- Are there areas in your life where you are trying to maintain control rather than trusting in God’s plan?
- How can you seek unity under God’s leadership rather than allowing division or personal ambition to create conflict in your relationships?
- In what ways does this passage encourage you to trust in God’s ultimate plan, even when others around you are pursuing their own goals?