2 Samuel 2:1-3:21, Shall the Sword Devour Forever?

August 10, 2025, S-1657-KL
God tells David to return to Judah, to the city of Hebron where the men anointed him king over Judah. Saul’s commander, Abner, makes Ishbosheth king over the northern tribes of Israel, and the two sides confront each other in a bloody battle. As the men of Judah pursue him, “Abner called to Joab and said, “Shall the sword devour forever? Do you not know that it will be bitter in the latter end” (2 Samuel 2:26 NKJV)? Israel and Judah continue to wage war against each other for several years until, following a conflict with Ishbosheth, Abner approaches David and offers to bring all Israel under his rule.
Israel’s rebellion against God’s revealed will for David to be king led to unnecessary war, death, and suffering. The same is true today when individuals, families, churches, and societies disobey God’s revealed will for us. Pastor Kevin shows how, in contrast, David lived in submission to and total dependence upon God, even though it meant waiting more than seven years to become king. Pastor Kevin exhorts us all to stop rebelling against God. When we obey Him, we enter can enjoy peace and avoid the suffering that inevitably follows when we disobey.
Maranatha!
Associated notes, links, and the uncensored audio file are at calvarypo.org under Sermon Archives, https://calvarypo.org/sermons/shall-the-sword-devour-forever-2-samuel-21-321/