2 Samuel 10: Don’t Shave the Messengers

The Rev. Steven Theiss, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in New Wells, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study 2 Samuel 10.  When King David sends his envoys to express condolences to the Ammonite king after the passing of his father, they are met with suspicion and humiliation. Fueled by wounded pride, the Ammonites join forces with the Arameans, their allies, and prepare for war against Israel. Sensing the impending threat, David dispatches Joab, his trusted general, to lead the Israelite army into battle. What follows is a harrowing tale of strategic warfare, shifting alliances, and the quest for victory in the face of overwhelming odds.  2 Samuel tells how David becomes the king of Israel and faces both success and failure. It shows YHWH's faithfulness to His promise and David’s need for His mercy. Through this book, God reveals David in times of both strength and weakness, but nevertheless as a man after God’s heart.