Category Archives: Sermon Notes & Announcements

Jul 18, 2021. I Thessalonians 1:6-10

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SPIRIT EMPOWERED.  I Thessalonians 1:6-10.  7/18/2021.  #2.

1 Thessalonians 1:6-10 [New King James Version]

6 And you became followers of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit, 7 so that you became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia who believe. 8 For from you the word of the Lord has sounded forth, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place. Your faith toward God has gone out, so that we do not need to say anything. 9 For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, 10 and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.

  1. A changed life
    1. The Thessalonian church showed such change in their lives, that Paul was convinced that they were empowered by the Spirit
    1. They became followers of Christ
      1.  Bold witness in spite of great affliction and trials
      1.  Logically, no one would join a persecuted group on their own
      1.  They joyfully embraced Christ even in suffering
    1. They became evangelists throughout Macedonia and Achaia (middle of Greece including Athens)
      1.  3 sections of Greece: Macedonia, Achaia, Peloponnesus which includes Sparta
      1.  In short order, they spread the gospel throughout the region
      1.  Moved from new believers to bold witnesses
      1.  Their witness moved from Greece to the utter most parts of the known world
    1. They turned from idols to God
      1.  They were multi-generation pagans (thousands of years of idol worshippers)
      1.  The truth made sense, where idol worship was full of contradiction and immorality
    1. Paul and aides were well received by the Thess.
  2. Paul teaches Thess. the doctrinal basis for belief and practice
    1. Salvation is a work of the Holy Spirit, not man
      1.  Not by clever argument
      1.  John 16:8 the Spirit convicts, draws, regenerates, seals, gifts, and tasks
    1. Resurrection of Jesus = the key evidence of faith
      1.  They accepted the evidence that the Athenians rejected
      1.  This is the pivotal point of coming to Christ
    1. Second Coming of Christ
      1.  Serving the Lord in the light of the return of Christ motivates us to serve faithfully
      1.  To anticipate great reward allows us to endure great trials ( Romans 8:12-25)
    1. We are rescued from the wrath to come
      1.  Two levels of divine wrath:
        1.  The Great Tribulation – Paul had taught the Thessalonians about God’s great outpouring of wrath upon sinful man
        1.  The Great White Throne Judgment = the ultimate judgment of the lost (Revelation 20)
      1.  The Thess. were confused about the timing and details of end times events, especially as it related to the church (Paul did not have time to fill in all the details before he had to flee)
    1. The return of Christ for his church
      1.  Paul indicates that the reward for faithfulness is worth the price of serving him in trials
      1.  The rapt anticipation of glory swallows up the fear of persecution (Matthew 10:28)
  3. Keep focused
    1. Paul wanted to commend the Thessalonian for their faithfulness
    1. Paul wanted to correct their doctrine so their faith would not be tarnished by false belief
    1. Paul encourages them to keep going
    1. Initial enthusiasm wears off, so spiritual growth must replace enthusiasm wit spiritual maturity

Key verse: Romans 8:12-25

12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors—not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. 13 For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 15 For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” 16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together. 18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. 19 For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. 20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; 21 because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. 22 For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now. 23 Not only that, but we also who have the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body. 24 For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance.

Jul 18, 2021. II Samuel 14:25-33

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ABSALOM FORCES THE ISSUE.  II Samuel 14:25-33.  7/18/2021.  #31.

2 Samuel 14:25-33 [New King James Version]

25 Now in all Israel there was no one who was praised as much as Absalom for his good looks. From the sole of his foot to the crown of his head there was no blemish in him. 26 And when he cut the hair of his head—at the end of every year he cut it because it was heavy on him—when he cut it, he weighed the hair of his head at two hundred shekels according to the king’s standard. 27 To Absalom were born three sons, and one daughter whose name was Tamar. She was a woman of beautiful appearance. 28 And Absalom dwelt two full years in Jerusalem, but did not see the king’s face. 29 Therefore Absalom sent for Joab, to send him to the king, but he would not come to him. And when he sent again the second time, he would not come. 30 So he said to his servants, “See, Joab’s field is near mine, and he has barley there; go and set it on fire.” And Absalom’s servants set the field on fire. 31 Then Joab arose and came to Absalom’s house, and said to him, “Why have your servants set my field on fire?” 32 And Absalom answered Joab, “Look, I sent to you, saying, ‘Come here, so that I may send you to the king, to say, “Why have I come from Geshur? It would be better for me to be there still.” ’ Now therefore, let me see the king’s face; but if there is iniquity in me, let him execute me.” 33 So Joab went to the king and told him. And when he had called for Absalom, he came to the king and bowed himself on his face to the ground before the king. Then the king kissed Absalom.

  1. Near home is not at home
    1. Joab convinced David to bring Absalom back from Geshur where he fled after killing Amnon
      1.  Amnon had raped Tamar, but David had done nothing about the crime
      1.  After 2 years, Absalom takes matters into his own hands and murders Amnon
      1.  Absalom fled to Geshur, East of the Sea of Galilee
      1.  Joab used a ruse to trick David into sending for Ab
    1. Both Joab and Absalom believed that the king would call Absalom before him to face the consequences of his actions
      1.  David had proven unwilling to hold his children to account – just like Eli or Samuel
      1.  His sons committed the exact same sins that he had
        1.  David had committed adultery with another man’s wife and Amnon raped his ½ sister
        1.  David made sure that another man killed Uriah while Absalom had his servants kill Am.
        1.  How could David punish his sons for doing what he had done?
    1. Not confronting the issue does not make it vanish
    1. Absalom had not seen his father in 3 years
    1. c. Absalom was the banished prince
  2. Trouble brewing
    1. Absalom was very handsome and without blemish
      1.  He removed 5 pounds of hair from his head each year – envy of all who saw him
      1.  Israel was drawn to him
    1. Absalom’s attractiveness would draw sympathy from people
      1.  Many would feel that he was justified in avenging his sister’s rape since his father refused to do so
      1.  Many would feel that his banishment from the palace was unjust
    1. David seems completely isolated from both the people and developing events around him
  3. Absalom makes his move
    1. Absalom gets tired of waiting to be called to the palace
    1. He calls Joab to him twice
      1.  Joab feels that he had done all he could
      1.  Joab refuses to come
    1. Absalom has his servants set Joab’s barley field ablaze
      1.  This gets Joab’s attention
      1.  Joab comes to Absalom to inquire about the arson
    1. Absalom makes some obvious points
      1.  It would have been better for him to stay in Geshur than to come home and still be banished from his own family
      1.  Absalom thought that coming home would mean going back to full status in the kingdom
      1.  If the king wanted to try him and then execute him that would be better than being treated as a nonperson by his own father
  4. David’s placid response
    1. When David sees his son, he merely kisses him
      1.  There is no dealing with the murder of Amnon
      1.  Restoration without accountability is complicity
    1. Absalom and others lose respect for David and his authority
      1.  The meeting is anticlimactic = no response
      1.  David does not even express anger or disapproval

Jul 11, 2021. I Thessalonians 1:1-5

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A LIGHT IN THESSALONICA.  I Thessalonians 1:1-5.  7/11/21.  #01.

1 Thessalonians 1:1-5 [New King James Version]

1 Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace [a]from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 2 We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers, 3 remembering without ceasing your work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of our God and Father, 4 knowing, beloved brethren, your election by God. 5 For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake.

  1. Quick plant church
    1. Thessalonica = at top of the Aegean Sea on the E road
    2. Paul moved from Philippi to Thessalonica after release from jail
    3. Paul was only in Thessalonica for 3 weeks (1 THS. 17:1-15) 
      1.  As in other cities, the Greek population respond more positively than the Jews
      2.  The Jews were jealous and stirred up the town against Paul and his companions
    4. A mob attacked Jason’s house where Paul was staying
      1.  Jason had to post a security bond, guaranteeing the peaceful conduct of Paul and his group
      2.  The new converts escorted Paul out of town on the way to Berea until the Jews followed him there
    5. Paul was concerned that since he had so little time with the Thessalonians, they would falter under persecution
  2. A good start for the church
    1. Paul was gratified and astounded that the Thessalonica held firm under persecution and even boldly shared their faith
    2. The church developed a great reputation for faith and love
      1.  New believers can grow strong and fast
      2.  Desire to know about God and serve him can greatly speed up the maturity of a believer
    3. Paul encourages the church to continue to grow in faith
    4. Paul ends up dealing with 3 basic issues:
      1.  Basic morality and ethics, which was lacking in all Greek cities (faith applied to daily life)
      2.  They misunderstood Paul’s teaching on end times, thinking Christ was coming immediately
      3.  Dealt with rumors that Christ had already come and saints who had died had missed it
  3. Greetings, gratitude, and grace
    1. Paul has Timothy and Silvanus with him
      1.  Timothy is Paul’s main messenger and aid
      2.  Silvanus is Paul’s scribe or secretary
        1.  Being a Greek, he knew proper grammar
        1.  Silv. served Peter in same way (1 Pt. 5:12)
    2. Paul is very thankful for Thessalonica believers and their testimony
      1. We don’t know how a new convert will grow
      2.  Paul prays continually for them and their faith (not just lead them and then leave them=>prayer)
    3. Paul was grateful to God for specific traits shown by them
      1.  Work of faith = though new converts, they immediately began evangelizing, discipling, and helps
      2.  Labor of love = love of God and fellow man
      3.  Patience in hope in Lord = already learned how to forbear under trials by trusting in Lord
    4. Philippians 2:12 their life demonstrated that they were truly God’s elect (God chose them for himself)
    5. Paul testifies that the Holy Spirit empowered the words of the Gospel spoken to them (Heb. 4:12)
      1.  Paul did not have any power (God’s alone)
      2.  Jn. 15:5 we can do nothing without Lord (tools)
    6. Their faithfulness gave strong assurance of their faith
      1.  They observed and accepted testimony of Paul and those with him (each had good reputation)
      2.  The Thessalonicas embraced the truth and left old life behind
    7. Those open to the truth can completely change quickly
      1.  Always still more growth and danger of slipping
      2.  A determined faith is a victorious faith

Jul 11, 2021. II Samuel 14:1-24

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RETURN OF ABSALOM.  II Samuel 14:1-24.  07/11/21.  #30

2 Samuel 14:1-24 [New King James Version]

1 So Joab the son of Zeruiah perceived that the king’s heart was concerned about Absalom. 2 And Joab sent to Tekoa and brought from there a wise woman, and said to her, “Please pretend to be a mourner, and put on mourning apparel; do not anoint yourself with oil, but act like a woman who has been mourning a long time for the dead. 3 Go to the king and speak to him in this manner.” So Joab put the words in her mouth. 4 And when the woman of Tekoa spoke to the king, she fell on her face to the ground and prostrated herself, and said, “Help, O king!” 5 Then the king said to her, “What troubles you?” And she answered, “Indeed I am a widow, my husband is dead. 6 Now your maidservant had two sons; and the two fought with each other in the field, and there was no one to part them, but the one struck the other and killed him. 7 And now the whole family has risen up against your maidservant, and they said, ‘Deliver him who struck his brother, that we may execute him for the life of his brother whom he killed; and we will destroy the heir also.’ So they would extinguish my ember that is left, and leave to my husband neither name nor remnant on the earth.” 8 Then the king said to the woman, “Go to your house, and I will give orders concerning you.” 9 And the woman of Tekoa said to the king, “My lord, O king, let the iniquity be on me and on my father’s house, and the king and his throne be guiltless.” 10 So the king said, “Whoever says anything to you, bring him to me, and he shall not touch you anymore.” 11 Then she said, “Please let the king remember the Lord your God, and do not permit the avenger of blood to destroy anymore, lest they destroy my son.” And he said, “As the Lord lives, not one hair of your son shall fall to the ground.” 12 Therefore the woman said, “Please, let your maidservant speak another word to my lord the king.” And he said, “Say on.” 13 So the woman said: “Why then have you schemed such a thing against the people of God? For the king speaks this thing as one who is guilty, in that the king does not bring his banished one home again. 14 For we will surely die and become like water spilled on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again. Yet God does not take away a life; but He devises means, so that His banished ones are not expelled from Him. 15 Now therefore, I have come to speak of this thing to my lord the king because the people have made me afraid. And your maidservant said, ‘I will now speak to the king; it may be that the king will perform the request of his maidservant. 16 For the king will hear and deliver his maidservant from the hand of the man who would destroy me and my son together from the inheritance of God.’ 17 Your maidservant said, ‘The word of my lord the king will now be comforting; for as the angel of God, so is my lord the king in discerning good and evil. And may the Lord your God be with you.’ ” 18 Then the king answered and said to the woman, “Please do not hide from me anything that I ask you.” And the woman said, “Please, let my lord the king speak.” 19 So the king said, “Is the hand of Joab with you in all this?” And the woman answered and said, “As you live, my lord the king, no one can turn to the right hand or to the left from anything that my lord the king has spoken. For your servant Joab commanded me, and he put all these words in the mouth of your maidservant. 20 To bring about this change of affairs your servant Joab has done this thing; but my lord is wise, according to the wisdom of the angel of God, to know everything that is in the earth.” 21 And the king said to Joab, “All right, I have granted this thing. Go therefore, bring back the young man Absalom.” 22 Then Joab fell to the ground on his face and bowed himself, and thanked the king. And Joab said, “Today your servant knows that I have found favor in your sight, my lord, O king, in that the king has fulfilled the request of his servant.” 23 So Joab arose and went to Geshur, and brought Absalom to Jerusalem. 24 And the king said, “Let him return to his own house, but do not let him see my face.” So Absalom returned to his own house, but did not see the king’s face.

  1. Forlorn but forsaken
    1. Absalom has executed his brother, Amnon, for raping Tamar
      1.  David had done nothing about the rape (2 years)
      1.  Abs. fled to Geshur
      1.  David does nothing about the murder of his son, Amnon (he does nothing at all)
    2. David mourns for Absalom, but does nothing to either confront or reconcile with him
      1.  David has a habit of leaving personal matters in limbo (seeks no resolution)
      1.  Unresolved issues fester and often inflame
    3. Joab notices that David is moping over Absalom
      1.  He notes that David will do nothing to resolve it
      1.  Those who refuse to reconcile with the past are doomed to live the past over and over again
      1.  Joab knows that David can’t continue moping and still effectively rule the kingdom (a distraction)
      1.  Joab plots to manipulate David into bringing back Absalom (to remove this impediment)
  2. The woman of Tekoa
    1. Joab finds a woman of Tekoa (hometown of Amos) to come before David with a clever ruse
    2. Joab has the woman play a desperate widow
      1.  She is to say that one of her sons killed her other son in a fight and now the community wants to kill him
      1.  Her remaining son is the last of her inheritance
      1.  She wants David to protect her son
    3. David promises to protect her son
    4. Then the woman pulls a “You are the man!” moment
      1.  She asks why David hasn’t brought back his son
      1.  David perceives that he has been set up
      1.  David asks if Joab is not behind this plot
        1.  The woman admits that Joab instructed her to speak to David
        1.  David had not checked out her story and so was deceived (Proverbs 18:13, 17)
    5. Apparently, Joab had brought the woman to David
      1.  David gives Joab permission to fetch Absalom
      1.  Joab thinks the issue will now resolve itself
  3. Half way home is not home
    1. The purpose of bringing Abs. home was for reconciliation
      1.  David rejects the possibility of reconciliation
      1.  David avoids dealing directly with the issues
    2. David misses the point of Joab’s petition
      1.  Absalom may return to his own home and fields
      1.  Absalom may not see David face to face
      1.  Abs. can come half way to David, but not all
      1.  David is still angry about Abs.’s actions
      1.  By not dealing with the problem directly, David guaranteed he would have to deal with it on Absalom’s terms
    3. Absalom is David’s son and his problem to deal with
      1.  Status quo will not stay stagnant
      1.  No trial, verdict, or decree has been issued by David concerning his son
      1.  David’s de facto punishment is banishment from the palace and his presence without benefit of dialogue
    4. Luke 15 no Prodigal Son reconciliation with father

Jul 4, 2021. Colossians 4:7-18

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LABORERS OF LIGHT.  Colossians 4:7-18.  07/04/2021.  #14.

Colossians 4:7-18 [New King James Version]

7 Tychicus, a beloved brother, faithful minister, and fellow servant in the Lord, will tell you all the news about me. 8 I am sending him to you for this very purpose, that he may know your circumstances and comfort your hearts, 9 with Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will make known to you all things which are happening here. 10 Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, with Mark the cousin of Barnabas (about whom you received instructions: if he comes to you, welcome him), 11 and Jesus who is called Justus. These are my only fellow workers for the kingdom of God who are of the circumcision; they have proved to be a comfort to me. 12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a bondservant of Christ, greets you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. 13 For I bear him witness that he has a great zeal for you, and those who are in Laodicea, and those in Hierapolis. 14 Luke the beloved physician and Demas greet you. 15 Greet the brethren who are in Laodicea, and Nymphas and the church that is in [e]his house. 16 Now when this epistle is read among you, see that it is read also in the church of the Laodiceans, and that you likewise read the epistle from Laodicea. 17 And say to Archippus, “Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it.” 18 This salutation by my own hand—Paul. Remember my chains. Grace be with you. Amen.

  1. Paul sends greetings from those with him
    1. Paul was not alone in the Roman jail
      1.  Others were ministering to and with him
      1.  Some were even in jail with him
    1. Tychicus was a faithful companion of Paul’s
      1.  Not only was he with Paul in this 1st imprisonment, but also his 2nd one (I Timothy 4:12)
      1.  We have little information on Tychicus, but Paul’s faith in him speaks volumes (many labor in obscurity, but not before God)
      1.  Tychicus was a news bearer and a comforter
    1. Onesimus = the runaway slave of Philemon whom Paul leads to the Lord and is sending back as a servant
    1. Aristarchus = a fellow prisoner with Paul
    1. John Mark = either Barnabas’ nephew (Acts 12-13) or his cousin (Greek word could merely mean “relative”)
      1.  Mark had come with Paul and Barnabas on first mission trip
      1.  After Mark left early, Paul refused to take Mark on second trip, so Paul and Barnabas split company
      1.  Paul later found Mark faithful (II Timothy 4)
      1.  The Upper Room was in mom’s house
      1.  Author of book of Mark
    1. Justus = one of candidates to take Judas’ place (Acts 1)
    1. Paul mentions Jewish Christians 1st and bemoans the fact that there were so few of them
    1. Epaphras – from Colosse and messenger to and from Paul (called a fellow prisoner in Philemon)
    1. Doctor Luke is with Paul (writer of Luke and Acts)
    1. Demus = still faithful, but will soon leave Paul
      1.  II Timothy 4 Demus loved the world
      1.  Paul did not know that Demus was a false saint
  2. Paul sends greetings to people in Colossae
    1. Greets those in Colossae, Laodicea, and Hierapolis
    1. Nymphas hosted the Laodicean church
      1.  Paul wrote a letter to Laodicea that we don’t have
      1.  Revelation 3 later the Laodicea would grow lukewarm
    1. Archippus = pastor of Col. church
      1.  Special admonition = must faithful attend to ministry given to him by the Lord
      1.  James 3:1-2 church leaders are more accountable
  3. Archippus given strict warning
    1. Take heed = lit., “see to the ministry”
      1.  Attend to the ministry given you (diligence)
      1.  Not a casual or light responsibility
    1. All ministries, tasks, and callings are from God (Romans 12:1-13)
      1.  We are stewards (caretakers) of our calling
      1.  Matthew 25 we will be held to account for our tasking
      1.  Luke 12:48 the greater the calling, the greater the accountability for that calling
    1. Arch. is to fulfill his calling (not partially, but in all its aspects of teaching, caring, counseling, managing, prayer…)
    1. Callings are given to us by God
      1.  We do not chose our place in God’s ministry
      1.  We are responsible for our calling even if we would prefer to do something else, or nothing
      1.  Responsible for all aspects of the calling
      1.  We are responsible to not quit or slack off (serious)
    1. There is great loss and damage when we shirk our ministry
    1. Paul signs off with his own hand (remember my bonds!)

Jul 4, 2021. II Samuel 13:34-39

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ABSALOM FLEES.  II Samuel 13:34-39.  07/04/2021.  #29.

II Samuel 13:34-39 [New King James Version]

34 Then Absalom fled. And the young man who was keeping watch lifted his eyes and looked, and there, many people were coming from the road on the hillside behind him. 35 And Jonadab said to the king, “Look, the king’s sons are coming; as your servant said, so it is.” 36 So it was, as soon as he had finished speaking, that the king’s sons indeed came, and they lifted up their voice and wept. Also the king and all his servants wept very bitterly. 37 But Absalom fled and went to Talmai the son of Ammihud, king of Geshur. And David mourned for his son every day. 38 So Absalom fled and went to Geshur, and was there three years. 39 And King David longed to go to Absalom. For he had been comforted concerning Amnon, because he was dead.

  1. Absalom on the lam
    1. Immediately after Absalom has Amnon murdered, he flees
      1.  Absalom would rather leave his home than not see justice done for his sister, Tamar
      1.  David’s lack of discernment and administering justice precipitated this entire situation
    1. Absalom had his escape plan well-rehearsed
    1. He flees to King Talmai of Geshur
      1.  Geshur is east of the Sea of Galilee
      1.  Same territory of the Geshurites, Gadarenes, and Decapolis where Jesus cast out demons (Legion)
      1.  David had made an alliance with Talmai (3:3)
      1.  Talmai would not turn down refuge for a son of David (not uncommon in royal disputes)
  2. A palace full of tears
    1. David and palace are distraught
      1.  Jonadab informs David that the king’s sons were returning to Jerusalem just as he had said
      1.  There was great mourning among David’s sons
    1. Absalom’s betrayal of murdering a guest where safety was guaranteed was on par with Amnon raping his sister
    1. Ab. feels vindicated, but also fearful of consequences
    1. David moves from mourning over Amnon to mourning over the absence of Absalom
  3.  As with Tamar, David moves on to be concerned about Absalom without dealing with Amnon’s murder
  4. David executed justice against others, but he refused to do so within his own household
    1. Unless justice applies foremost to me and my household, I have no right to impose it on anyone else (children and others lose respect for the hypocrite)
  5. David continues his rule by inaction
    1. David shows no backbone in his own family
      1.  He does not pursue Absalom to bring him to justice (as he did with Amnon)
      1.  He does not try to contact Absalom
      1.  He does not send a delegation to bring Ab. back
      1.  3 years pass and David does nothing
    1. Proper administration brings peace and order, but poor administration brings chaos and tragedy
      1.  David never comes to grips with his lack of fortitude, rectitude, and prudent judicial rule
      1.  David seems unaware that he is the main problem
    1. David comes to the conclusion that he wants to reconcile with his son before he even holds him to account for his acts
      1.  Nowhere does it say that David confessed his sinful acts before his family (James 5)
      1.  David never regains the moral high road
      1.  David wants to move on as if nothing had ever happened (to ignore past sins)
    1. A past not reconciled is a past that will haunt your future
      1.  God had exposed David’s sin, but David did not expose himself to public confession and recompense
      1.  David’s lack of contrition before family and subjects neutralized his ability to effectively rule
    1. There is a pride in self-acclaimed piety, integrity, and humility that dooms a man as much as arrogance does (subtle)

Jun 27, 2021. Colossians 4:2-6

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LIFE FOCUS.  Colossians 4:2-6.  06/27/2021.  #13.

Colossians 4:2-6 [New King James Version]

2 Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving; 3 meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the [a]mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains, 4 that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. 5 Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. 6 Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.

1. The primacy of prayer

                a. Paul’s closing comments to Col. is a list of practical actions

                    that put his doctrinal teachings into practice

                                a1. There how-to-do implementations that proceed the fundamental beliefs of the faith

                                a2. Like OT offerings, actions do not replace faith &

                                      beliefs, but are ways to apply them in real life

                b. As in many passages, prayer is placed in the forefront

                                a1. Belief + study + prayer go together

                                a2. Jm. 4:1-4 prayer is the mechanism by which we approach God in worship, praise, & requests

                c. Paul briefly gives vital aspects of proper praying:

                                a1. Continual = men are to always pray (I Thessalonians 5:17)

                                                b1. Prayer is the attitude of life (spiritual breathing = constant contact with God)

                                                b2. Not just prayer at specific times

                                a2. Earnest = a sincerity, fervency, & urgency in prayer (not absent-minded, rote, or flippant)

                                a3. Vigilant = prayer is involvement in spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:11-12 praying engages us in spiritual warfare)

                                a4.  With Thanksgiving = without ongoing gratitude expressed to God for his being, blessings, & promises, prayer is a list of wants (Philippians 4:4-9)

                d. Paul then elicits the prayers of Col. Christians

                                a1. Paul is in jail (not ask to pray for release)

                                a2. He asks that God would open a door for witness

                                                b1. Witness to guards & visitors (Philippians 4:22)

                                                b2. Taking the mysteries (hidden truths) into Caesar’s palace

                                a3. Paul asks that they pray that he would speak properly so that the message would be clear (making the Gospel understandable is a challenge)

2. Walking circumspectly

                a. Paul urges the Col. to be wise toward unbelievers

                                a1. Mt. 10:16 commanded to be wise as serpents…

                                a2. We are to be a testimony to the lost in word/deed

                b. Many was to mess up your testimony: sin, aggressiveness, silence, not following lead of Holy Spirit, insensitivity…

                c. Redeeming the time = not frivolously wasting time on useless pursuits (an urgency about our calling, Ecclesiastes 2)

                                a1. Time management = putting things of God first (the Word, prayer, service)

                                a2. Enjoying what God has given us is great, especially if we praise him for it, but it is not priority 1

                d. The testimony of a believer must encompass morality, kindness, holiness, prayer, Scripture, witness, worship, service, outreach, & contentment (good reputation)

3. Saint speech

                a. Paul finishes his instructions by admonishing pure speech

                                a1. James 3 the tongue is a difficult device to control

                                a2. Appropriate speech must be wholesome (Ephesians 4:29)

                b. Paul lists 3 qualities of proper speech:

                                a1. Gracious = kindness & deferring (humble, respect, patient, helpful…)

                                a2. Seasoned with salt = makes the Gospel & way of Christ appealing, desirable, & pleasing

                                a3. Understanding what is appropriate to say

                c. Interacting properly with others requires the ability to listen (Jm. 1:19), be patient (I Thessalonians 5:14), be restrained (Ephesians 4:29), and be led by the Spirit (Romans 8:4)

                d. A spiritual Christian = not known for crude or harsh speech

Key Verse: Philippians 4:4-94 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!  5 Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. 6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.

Jun 27, 2021. II Samuel 13:23-33

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ABSALOM AVENGES TAMAR.  II Samuel 13:23-33.  06/27/2021.  #28

2 Samuel 13:23-33 [New King James Version]

23 And it came to pass, after two full years, that Absalom had sheepshearers in Baal Hazor, which is near Ephraim; so Absalom invited all the king’s sons. 24 Then Absalom came to the king and said, “Kindly note, your servant has sheepshearers; please, let the king and his servants go with your servant.” 25 But the king said to Absalom, “No, my son, let us not all go now, lest we be a burden to you.” Then he urged him, but he would not go; and he blessed him. 26 Then Absalom said, “If not, please let my brother Amnon go with us.” And the king said to him, “Why should he go with you?” 27 But Absalom urged him; so he let Amnon and all the king’s sons go with him. 28 Now Absalom had commanded his servants, saying, “Watch now, when Amnon’s heart is merry with wine, and when I say to you, ‘Strike Amnon!’ then kill him. Do not be afraid. Have I not commanded you? Be courageous and valiant.” 29 So the servants of Absalom did to Amnon as Absalom had commanded. Then all the king’s sons arose, and each one got on his mule and fled. 30 And it came to pass, while they were on the way, that news came to David, saying, “Absalom has killed all the king’s sons, and not one of them is left!” 31 So the king arose and tore his garments and lay on the ground, and all his servants stood by with their clothes torn. 32 Then Jonadab the son of Shimeah, David’s brother, answered and said, “Let not my lord suppose they have killed all the young men, the king’s sons, for only Amnon is dead. For by the command of Absalom this has been determined from the day that he forced his sister Tamar. 33 Now therefore, let not my lord the king take the thing to his heart, to think that all the king’s sons are dead. For only Amnon is dead.”

  1. The futile wait
    1. For 2 years Tamar and Absalom wait for David to bring Amnon to justice for his rape of Tamar
      1.  There is no indication that David even talked to Amnon, let alone enact any punishment on him
      1.  Absalom is furious and Tamar is devalued
    1. Several adverse results stem from judicial inaction:
      1.  An injustice is not properly recompensed
      1.  The perpetrator vindicated and free to continue to commit more injustices
      1.  Ecclesiastes 8:11 others feel free to do wickedness since there are no real consequences for their actions
      1.  Victims feel doubly violated (by crime and govern.)
      1.  Citizens lose respect for law and law enforcers
      1.  Victims are tempted to take matters into own hands
    1. Both Tamar and Absalom feel betrayed by their own father
      1.  David’s inability to act on behalf of his family is puzzling and inexcusable
      1.  Absalom loses respect for his father
  2. Absalom waits no longer
    1. Absalom devises a plan to avenge his sister
    1. He approaches David to invite him to his shearing the sheep celebration (similar to Nabol’s celebration in Carmel)
      1.  Like a harvest celebration (Ruth 3), the gathering of wool was a cause of great joy
      1.  David refuses to go, since he and his party would be in the way of the shearing and celebration
    1. Absalom must have suspected that David would refuse to go
      1.  Absalom asks that Amnon should go in David’s stead
      1.  This is an odd request, since each man takes care of his own fields, flocks, and harvests, and feasts
    1. David asks why Amnon should go with Absalom
      1.  David is suspicious, but he never acts on his suspicions (if a red flag arises in your mind, don’t ignore it, for God gives us intuition as a warning)
      1.  Notice that David gives in after Absalom presses him, even though there is no good reason for Amnon to go to a shearing feast put on by Absalom
    1. David’s intuition is not the only factor that should have given David pause, for Amnon had raped Absalom’s sister, Tamar, and David had done nothing about it
    1. Even though Ab. had specifically asked for Amnon to go, all of David’s sons go to Absalom’s celebration
      1.  Oddly, Amnon does not suspect anything
      1.  Like King Agag and David before Nathan confronted him, Amnon figures that time of judgment has passed
    1. Judgment does not always fall immediately (Revelation 2)
  3. Absalom takes revenge
    1. When Amnon is full of wine, Ab. signals for him to be killed
      1.  Amnon dies instantly and the other brothers flee
      1.  Absalom has taken life as a Revenger of Blood (Numbers 35:19), which the Levitical Law was to replace
      1.  Revenge cycles never finish (law must work)
    1. Romans 12 God tells us to leave vengeance up to God
    1. Rumor goes back to David that all his sons have been killed (great grief in the palace), but Jonadab says only Amnon is dead
    1. Jonadab says = Absalom planning revenge since rape (David unaware)

Jun 20, 2021. I Kings 1, Father’s Day 2021

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ADONIJAH, MAN OF AMBITION.  I Kings 1. FATHERS DAY 2021  (6/20/2021).

1 Kings 1 [New King James Version]

1 Now King David was old, advanced in years; and they put covers on him, but he could not get warm. 2 Therefore his servants said to him, “Let a young woman, a virgin, be sought for our lord the king, and let her stand before the king, and let her care for him; and let her lie in your bosom, that our lord the king may be warm.” 3 So they sought for a lovely young woman throughout all the territory of Israel, and found Abishag the Shunammite, and brought her to the king. 4 The young woman was very lovely; and she cared for the king, and served him; but the king did not know her. 5 Then Adonijah the son of Haggith exalted himself, saying, “I will be king”; and he prepared for himself chariots and horsemen, and fifty men to run before him. 6 (And his father had not rebuked him at any time by saying, “Why have you done so?” He was also very good-looking. His mother had borne him after Absalom.) 7 Then he conferred with Joab the son of Zeruiah and with Abiathar the priest, and they followed and helped Adonijah. 8 But Zadok the priest, Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, Nathan the prophet, Shimei, Rei, and the mighty men who belonged to David were not with Adonijah. 9 And Adonijah sacrificed sheep and oxen and fattened cattle by the stone of Zoheleth, which is by En Rogel; he also invited all his brothers, the king’s sons, and all the men of Judah, the king’s servants. 10 But he did not invite Nathan the prophet, Benaiah, the mighty men, or Solomon his brother. 11 So Nathan spoke to Bathsheba the mother of Solomon, saying, “Have you not heard that Adonijah the son of Haggith has become king, and David our lord does not know it? 12 Come, please, let me now give you advice, that you may save your own life and the life of your son Solomon. 13 Go immediately to King David and say to him, ‘Did you not, my lord, O king, swear to your maidservant, saying, “Assuredly your son Solomon shall reign after me, and he shall sit on my throne”? Why then has Adonijah become king?’ 14 Then, while you are still talking there with the king, I also will come in after you and confirm your words.” 15 So Bathsheba went into the chamber to the king. (Now the king was very old, and Abishag the Shunammite was serving the king.) 16 And Bathsheba bowed and did homage to the king. Then the king said, “What is your wish?” 17 Then she said to him, “My lord, you swore by the Lord your God to your maidservant, saying, ‘Assuredly Solomon your son shall reign after me, and he shall sit on my throne.’ 18 So now, look! Adonijah has become king; and now, my lord the king, you do not know about it. 19 He has sacrificed oxen and fattened cattle and sheep in abundance, and has invited all the sons of the king, Abiathar the priest, and Joab the commander of the army; but Solomon your servant he has not invited. 20 And as for you, my lord, O king, the eyes of all Israel are on you, that you should tell them who will sit on the throne of my lord the king after him. 21 Otherwise it will happen, when my lord the king rests with his fathers, that I and my son Solomon will be counted as offenders.” 22 And just then, while she was still talking with the king, Nathan the prophet also came in. 23 So they told the king, saying, “Here is Nathan the prophet.” And when he came in before the king, he bowed down before the king with his face to the ground. 24 And Nathan said, “My lord, O king, have you said, ‘Adonijah shall reign after me, and he shall sit on my throne’? 25 For he has gone down today, and has sacrificed oxen and fattened cattle and sheep in abundance, and has invited all the king’s sons, and the commanders of the army, and Abiathar the priest; and look! They are eating and drinking before him; and they say, ‘Long live King Adonijah!’ 26 But he has not invited me—me your servant—nor Zadok the priest, nor Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, nor your servant Solomon. 27 Has this thing been done by my lord the king, and you have not told your servant who should sit on the throne of my lord the king after him?” 28 Then King David answered and said, “Call Bathsheba to me.” So she came into the king’s presence and stood before the king. 29 And the king took an oath and said, “As the Lord lives, who has redeemed my life from every distress, 30 just as I swore to you by the Lord God of Israel, saying, ‘Assuredly Solomon your son shall be king after me, and he shall sit on my throne in my place,’ so I certainly will do this day.” 31 Then Bathsheba bowed with her face to the earth, and paid homage to the king, and said, “Let my lord King David live forever!” 32 And King David said, “Call to me Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada.” So they came before the king. 33 The king also said to them, “Take with you the servants of your lord, and have Solomon my son ride on my own mule, and take him down to Gihon. 34 There let Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet anoint him king over Israel; and blow the horn, and say, ‘Long live King Solomon!’ 35 Then you shall come up after him, and he shall come and sit on my throne, and he shall be king in my place. For I have appointed him to be ruler over Israel and Judah.” 36 Benaiah the son of Jehoiada answered the king and said, “Amen! May the Lord God of my lord the king say so too. 37 As the Lord has been with my lord the king, even so may He be with Solomon, and make his throne greater than the throne of my lord King David.” 38 So Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet, Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the Cherethites, and the Pelethites went down and had Solomon ride on King David’s mule, and took him to Gihon. 39 Then Zadok the priest took a horn of oil from the tabernacle and anointed Solomon. And they blew the horn, and all the people said, “Long live King Solomon!” 40 And all the people went up after him; and the people played the flutes and rejoiced with great joy, so that the earth seemed to split with their sound. 41 Now Adonijah and all the guests who were with him heard it as they finished eating. And when Joab heard the sound of the horn, he said, “Why is the city in such a noisy uproar?” 42 While he was still speaking, there came Jonathan, the son of Abiathar the priest. And Adonijah said to him, “Come in, for you are a prominent man, and bring good news.” 43 Then Jonathan answered and said to Adonijah, “No! Our lord King David has made Solomon king. 44 The king has sent with him Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet, Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the Cherethites, and the Pelethites; and they have made him ride on the king’s mule. 45 So Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet have anointed him king at Gihon; and they have gone up from there rejoicing, so that the city is in an uproar. This is the noise that you have heard. 46 Also Solomon sits on the throne of the kingdom. 47 And moreover the king’s servants have gone to bless our lord King David, saying, ‘May God make the name of Solomon better than your name, and may He make his throne greater than your throne.’ Then the king bowed himself on the bed. 48 Also the king said thus, ‘Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, who has given one to sit on my throne this day, while my eyes see it!’ ” 49 So all the guests who were with Adonijah were afraid, and arose, and each one went his way. 50 Now Adonijah was afraid of Solomon; so he arose, and went and took hold of the horns of the altar. 51 And it was told Solomon, saying, “Indeed Adonijah is afraid of King Solomon; for look, he has taken hold of the horns of the altar, saying, ‘Let King Solomon swear to me today that he will not put his servant to death with the sword.’ ” 52 Then Solomon said, “If he proves himself a worthy man, not one hair of him shall fall to the earth; but if wickedness is found in him, he shall die.” 53 So King Solomon sent them to bring him down from the altar. And he came and fell down before King Solomon; and Solomon said to him, “Go to your house.”

  1. Next in line
    1. David is old and feeble
      1.  They find a beautiful young Shunammite woman to attend to him and keep him warm
      1.  David is no longer able to effectively rule
    1. David’s son, Adonijah, next oldest to Absalom, assumes that he will be king after David
      1.  In most monarchies, the old son is crown prince
      1.  Adonijah presumes to take the throne
    1. Presumption is a dangerous miscalculation
      1.  Esau presumed that he was heir to Isaac
      1.  Joseph presumed that Manasseh and not Ephraim was his rightful heir
      1.  We can’t presume the future, health (Luke 12), wealth (Job 1), response of others, plans…
    1. Adonijah proclaimed himself to be king
      1.  He invites Joab, Abiathar, and others to his coronation (great celebration)
      1.  He does not invite the prophet Nathan, the High Priest, Zadok, Benaiah, captain of the guard, or Solomon (son of David’s favorite wife)
      1.  He shunned those likely to oppose him, but these were men of great power and influence
    1. By crowning himself before David died, Adonijah hoped to short circuit David naming someone else to be king
    1. Adonijah acted foolishly, as presumptuous men do
      1.  He did not get his father’s blessing
      1.  He was not anointed by the high priest
      1.  He did not seek God’s will via Nathan (prophet)
    1. g Presumptuous acts don’t guarantee favorable results
  2. The other shoe drops (1 Kings 1:11-27)
    1. Nathan knew that God favored Solomon
      1.  He comes to Bathsheba to instruct her to go to David to advocate for her son’s claim to throne
      1.  Nathan would then come in to back up her words
    1. David is completely unaware of anything outside his room
    1. vs. 28-40 David decrees that Solomon is his successor
      1.  Solomon is put on David’s throne with fanfare
      1.  The men of power acknowledge the choice
    1. vs. 41-52 when those around Adonijah hear that Solomon is on the throne, they all flee in fear
      1.  Adonijah runs to the Tabernacle, fearing his life
      1.  Solomon swears that as long as Adonijah makes no trouble, he will not be harmed in anyway
  3. Presumption leads to downfalls
    1. A godly man must allow God to open doors and seeks only to desire those things God directs (Luke 14:7-11)
      1.  Selfish ambition leads to ruin and dissatisfaction
      1.  Ecclesiastes 12 climbing to top of world is vanity
    1. Mt. 6 contentment with food, clothing and shelter is far more satisfying than power, fame, and wealth (Philippians 4:12)
      1.  Adonijah presumed that the throne was his by right of birth (he was only one of many sons)
      1.  Presumption comes on many levels: with wife, with children, with work, with health, with things
    1. A presumptive man asserts while a godly man serves
      1.  Philippians 2:3 a godly seeks to help others
      1.  Promotion of a godly man comes from others
    1. Romans 12:1-3 allow God to place you and give him praise

Key verse:  Luke 14:7-11

Luke 14:7-11

7 So He told a parable to those who were invited, when He noted how they chose the best places, saying to them: 8 “When you are invited by anyone to a wedding feast, do not sit down in the best place, lest one more honorable than you be invited by him; 9 and he who invited you and him come and say to you, ‘Give place to this man,’ and then you begin with shame to take the lowest place. 10 But when you are invited, go and sit down in the lowest place, so that when he who invited you comes he may say to you, ‘Friend, go up higher.’ Then you will have glory in the presence of those who sit at the table with you. 11 For whoever exalts himself will be [a]humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”

Jun 20, 2021. II Samuel 13:1-21

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AMNON VIOLATES TAMAR.  II Samuel 13:1-21.  06/20/21.  #27.

2 Samuel 13:1-21 [New King James Version]

1 After this Absalom the son of David had a lovely sister, whose name was Tamar; and Amnon the son of David loved her. 2 Amnon was so distressed over his sister Tamar that he became sick; for she was a virgin. And it was improper for Amnon to do anything to her. 3 But Amnon had a friend whose name was Jonadab the son of Shimeah, David’s brother. Now Jonadab was a very crafty man. 4 And he said to him, “Why are you, the king’s son, becoming thinner day after day? Will you not tell me?” Amnon said to him, “I love Tamar, my brother Absalom’s sister.” 5 So Jonadab said to him, “Lie down on your bed and pretend to be ill. And when your father comes to see you, say to him, ‘Please let my sister Tamar come and give me food, and prepare the food in my sight, that I may see it and eat it from her hand.’ ” 6 Then Amnon lay down and pretended to be ill; and when the king came to see him, Amnon said to the king, “Please let Tamar my sister come and make a couple of cakes for me in my sight, that I may eat from her hand.” 7 And David sent home to Tamar, saying, “Now go to your brother Amnon’s house, and prepare food for him.” 8 So Tamar went to her brother Amnon’s house; and he was lying down. Then she took flour and kneaded it, made cakes in his sight, and baked the cakes. 9 And she took the pan and placed them out before him, but he refused to eat. Then Amnon said, “Have everyone go out from me.” And they all went out from him. 10 Then Amnon said to Tamar, “Bring the food into the bedroom, that I may eat from your hand.” And Tamar took the cakes which she had made, and brought them to Amnon her brother in the bedroom. 11 Now when she had brought them to him to eat, he took hold of her and said to her, “Come, lie with me, my sister.” 12 But she answered him, “No, my brother, do not force me, for no such thing should be done in Israel. Do not do this disgraceful thing! 13 And I, where could I take my shame? And as for you, you would be like one of the fools in Israel. Now therefore, please speak to the king; for he will not withhold me from you.” 14 However, he would not heed her voice; and being stronger than she, he forced her and lay with her. 15 Then Amnon hated her exceedingly, so that the hatred with which he hated her was greater than the love with which he had loved her. And Amnon said to her, “Arise, be gone!” 16 So she said to him, “No, indeed! This evil of sending me away is worse than the other that you did to me.” But he would not listen to her. 17 Then he called his servant who attended him, and said, “Here! Put this woman out, away from me, and bolt the door behind her.” 18 Now she had on a robe of many colors, for the king’s virgin daughters wore such apparel. And his servant put her out and bolted the door behind her. 19 Then Tamar put ashes on her head, and tore her robe of many colors that was on her, and laid her hand on her head and went away crying bitterly. 20 And Absalom her brother said to her, “Has Amnon your brother been with you? But now hold your peace, my sister. He is your brother; do not take this thing to heart.” So Tamar remained desolate in her brother Absalom’s house. 21 But when King David heard of all these things, he was very angry.

  1. Amnon pines after Tamar
    1. Tamar, David’s daughter, is very beautiful
      1.  Her half-brother lusts after her and is obsessed
      1.  Amnon mopes and won’t eat (consumed by passion)
    1. Amnon’s cousin, Jonadab, finds out Amnon’s dilemma
      1.  Jonadab is a sneaky man
      1.  Jonadab suggests that Amnon feign sickness and then request that Tamar come to him to care for him
  2. David takes the bait
    1. David visits Amnon and hears his request
      1.  David does not discern that something is wrong
      1.  There are plenty of servants to attend to Amnon
      1.  Eating cakes is an odd remedy for a sickness
    1. David orders Tamar to go to her brother to attend to him
      1.  Tamar has no idea what Amnon has in mind
      1.  Young women are very vulnerable
        1.  They rarely notice the signs of men’s desires and manipulations
        1.  Tamar stayed naïve throughout this entire encounter
    1. Surely a brother would not dare violate his sister
    1. One of the most important services a father can do for his daughters is to teach them the ways of boys (Proverbs 30:19)
      1.  There are warning signs that require awareness
      1.  A girl needs to be aware when her emotions are being manipulated (always on guard)
  3. The violation of Tamar
    1. There were many signs Tamar missed (unexpected)
      1.  How could she help when the servants could not?
      1.  How could baked cakes cure a sickness?
      1.  When Amnon dismisses all his servants so that he could be alone with Tamar was a huge warning
      1.  When Amnon wants Tamar to bring the cakes into his private bedchamber, suspicions should’ve come
      1.  After Amnon refused to eat the cakes, his intentions should have been clear to Tamar
    1. Amnon grabs Tamar to force her and she vehemently protests
      1.  Such an act would be a disgrace thing in Israel
      1.  Amnon would be known as a fool
    1. Lust knows no reason (the flesh is not a rational entity)
    1. Tamar offers an alternative, desperate to remain chaste
      1.  King David would give her to Amnon if he asked
        1.  This would be an honest approach
        1.  Girls had little say in betrothals
      1.  Tamar would submit to a marriage willingly
      1.  Tamar’s solution would violate Levitical law (Leviticus 18:9, though Abraham married his half-sister)
      1.  Marriage would be better than rape
    1. After Amnon fulfills his lust, he hates his sister
      1.  He blames her for his lust (for example – murders in Atlanta)
      1.  He double shames Tamar
      1.  Lustful acts never live up to their anticipation
    1. Amnon did not love Tamar—he simply lusted after her body
  4. David’s inadequate response
    1. David is angry, but he does nothing to deal with Amnon
    1. David’s lack of action, leads to Absalom murdering Amnon
    1. David should have been responsible to be a proper father (comes w/fathering)