Podcasts about Absalom

What if one of the greatest threat to a youth ministry isn't culture… What if it's you?Absalom didn't start with open rebellion. He started with handshakes. Conversations. Sympathy. He built loyalty quietly — and by the time anyone realized what was happening, hearts had already shifted. He wasn't loud. He wasn't dramatic. He was subtle.If you have influence over young people, the Absalom mentality is something you cannot afford to ignore. This episode is a warning to anyone who leads, teaches, or influences young people. Because sometimes the most dangerous rebellion doesn't look like rebellion at all.

The enemy doesn't play fair, and he's hoping you'll choose the weight of a mourning monument over the power of a rejoicing temple.   There's a massive difference between a confession that just cleans your lips and a repentance that actually breaks your heart. This episode dives into the danger of "living in between" heaven and earth—where we recognize our sin but refuse to walk in the freedom Jesus bought for us. By looking at the tragic disconnect between King David's grief and Absalom's rebellion, we uncover how staying in a state of mourning for too long can actually strip you of your authority and cloud your identity. It's time to move past the "have-to" of religion and into the "get-to" of a life consumed by Jesus.   We weren't called to spend our lives building monuments to our mourning; we were called to be transformed into temples of His rejoicing.   Click here to go to the official Revival Cry YouTube channel. To see the Revival Cry podcast on another streaming service, click here.   To support Revival Cry or find out more information, go to revivalcry.org Email us at info@revivalcry.org  Follow @RevivalCryInternational on Facebook and Instagram.   Purchase Eric's 30-Day Devotional Books:  ⏵ “How to Become a Burning Bush”, available in English and Italian ⏵ “Hearing God through His Creation”, available in English, Italian, Spanish, and Japanese

Ryan Pitterson is back in the building after 200-plus episodes away, and he came with a bombshell. His third book, The Earth Before Adam, completes the trilogy that began with Judgment of the Nephilim and The Final Nephilim, and it takes us all the way back before the story we thought was the beginning. Ryan lays out the biblical case for the gap theory, arguing that between Genesis 1:1 and 1:2 lies the entire history of Lucifer's angelic kingdom on earth, its corruption, and its catastrophic judgment. Using the original Hebrew, the Septuagint, the Targums, Ezekiel 28, Isaiah 14, Jeremiah 4, and 2 Peter 3, he builds a detailed picture of a pre-Adamic world that was beautiful, inhabited, and ultimately destroyed by what he calls the first great tribulation.The conversation then rockets forward through the scroll of time as Ryan connects the dots between the ancient rebellion and the end times. He reveals the parallels between Absalom and Lucifer, unpacks how the Tower of Babel was an attempt to unlock a supernatural power through human unification, and explains how the Antichrist's global system is Satan's third and final attempt to harness that same power through AI, neural technology, and the Mark of the Beast. Along the way, the guys dig into pre-Adamic humanoids, dinosaurs, the cosmic trial playing out in the heavenly courtroom, and why this understanding of deep biblical history is so important. The end is the beginning, and the beginning is the end. This episode is sponsored by: https://homechef.com/blurry — Get 50% off plus free shipping on your first box & free dessert for life! https://rocketmoney.com/blurry — Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster! https://ruffgreens.com — Get a free Jumpstart Trial bag with discount code BLURRY at checkout. - Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the Calvary Church Podcast!  -- To support this ministry and help us continue to spread the Gospel around the world, click here: https://www.calvar

2 Samuel 18David's kingdom is divided. His own son Absalom has raised an army to take the throne. In the chaos, the question is unavoidable: who is really in control? This Sunday we will see that God secures His Kingdom even through our uncertainty, sin, and grief

2nd Samuel 16-17 “Betrayal and Trust” 1. Following David when betrayed (ch. 16:1-14) 2. Absalom declares he is king (ch. 16:15-23) 3. Absalom receives council to war (ch. 17:1-14) 4. David and his company escape (ch. 17:15-29)

1. Pressed on Every Side 2. Regaining Confidence 3. Calmly Resting Psalm 4 presents a powerful portrait of spiritual resilience amid deep distress, as King David, fleeing his rebellious son Absalom, cries out to God in anguish yet ultimately finds profound peace through intimate communion with the Lord. This psalm unfolds as a journey from turmoil to tranquility, beginning with a desperate plea for divine deliverance and progressing through meditation on God's righteous character, past mercies, and covenant faithfulness. As David turns his heart inward, reflecting on God's sovereignty and the futility of human vanity, he regains confidence not through external circumstances but through the inner stillness of trusting God's proven faithfulness. This leads to a transformative shift: from anxiety and sleeplessness to a calm assurance that allows him to rest securely, knowing that the Lord alone makes him dwell in safety. The psalm thus serves as an inspired guide for believers, teaching that true peace is not the absence of trial but the presence of God, found in prayer, meditation on Scripture, and surrender to the unshakable character of the God of righteousness.

You may be familiar with this verse from James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” God wants us to be wise, and the good news is, he will grant wisdom to us as we recognize our need for it and go to the source of all wisdom, our God. We also know from Scripture the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. We want the wisdom that God imparts, not the world's fake substitute. So, this is the pre-requisite: Do you fear the Lord? Do you know and respect the one true God through a personal relationship with his Son, Jesus?  That's where God's eternal wisdom begins. Assuming you do, here are the questions you need to ask yourself often. I believe these questions will help you avoid lots of trouble, keep you from shooting yourself in the foot, as we say, and greatly increase your effectiveness, regardless of where you are or what you're doing. Question #1: Do you think before you speak? How many times have you said something—jumped quickly to give your opinion or your advice or add your two cents—and as soon as you said it, you wished the ground would just swallow you whole? Proverbs 29:20 puts it so well: “Do you see someone who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for them.” I've often said, “I may not be good but I'm fast,” as though it is a good thing to be fast. Well, maybe it is sometimes, but to speak in haste is almost always a bad idea. Note there can be a difference between doing something with haste and doing something in haste. There are times when we do need to act with haste, quickly, for good reasons. David prays in Psalm 70:1, “Hasten, O God, to save me; come quickly, Lord, to help me.” We often pray for God to act quickly, right? And then later in Psalm 119:60, the Psalmist says, “I will hasten and not delay to obey your commands.” That's the kind of haste we all need. There's no question we should hasten to obey the Lord with no delay. But speaking in haste is speaking without giving it proper thought; speaking without thinking of how it could be perceived by someone else. It is speaking foolishly. The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing (Proverbs 12:18). When you choose your words carefully, thoughtfully, not in haste, you can do so much good. Proverbs 18:21 says: “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” So, if you want to be wise, ask yourself, “Do I speak words of life or death? Do I think before I speak?” Question #2: Did you sleep on it? The simple old adage, Sleep on it, can save you lots of trouble. A wise person takes time for decisions, big and small ones, because the choices and decisions we make on a daily basis set the direction of our lives. Think about decisions that you regret. I can easily bring some recent ones to my own mind, and when I look back on decisions that didn't turn out so good, it was always because I simply didn't “sleep on it,” didn't pray enough about it, didn't always seek good counsel. Again, from Proverbs 15:22, we read: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” Wise people seek counsel from those they trust. Wise people are able to live with delayed gratification, resisting the impulse to go for the immediate reward, the instant answer. How often do you tell yourself just to sleep on it, talk to somebody you trust, pray lots? I love this verse from Jeremiah 6:16a: “This is what the Lord says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.” When you're at a decision point, especially a fairly significant one, stand at that crossroad, ask for God's path, the good way. That's how you make wise decisions that bring soul rest for you. Question #3: Have you heard both sides? No doubt you've watched some courtroom drama, whether real or in a movie, where the defendant seems totally guilty until the defense gets the chance to present the other side. And what seemed so right before now seems totally wrong. Proverbs 18:17 talks about that: “In a lawsuit the first to speak seems right, until someone comes forward and cross-examines.” When someone is telling you their side of some story, before you take sides, before you get into gear to take some action, before you affirm that person, find out the other side. Do your own cross-examination and make sure you have the whole truth and nothing but the truth! There's a story in 2 Samuel chapter nine about King David who was on the run because of his son Absalom’s rebellion. A man named Ziba approached him; he was the servant of Mephibosheth, who was a crippled man who truly loved King David. But Ziba told David that Mephibosheth stayed behind in Jerusalem to reclaim his grandfather Saul’s kingdom—in other words, to take David's place—which was a lie. But David believed him and gave Ziba all of Mephibosheth's possessions. When David and his men finally returned to Jerusalem, Mephibosheth came to meet the king. Then David learned that Mephibosheth stayed in Jerusalem because Ziba, his servant, refused to saddle his donkey which prevented him from going with the king, because he was crippled and couldn't saddle it himself. So, when David discovered the other side of the story, he tried to correct his mistake, but there wasn't much he could do. Just think of the harm that is so often done because someone acted before they knew the whole story.  A wise person asks, “Have I heard both sides?” Question #4: Are you reacting or responding? A reaction is usually very emotional and often is full of feelings of revenge or defensiveness. Someone hurts your feelings and you react by trying to hurt them in some way. Someone treats you unfairly and in anger you ventilate your feelings about that person or even to that person. Those are reactions. A response is a delayed reaction, where you wait until your emotions are under control. Let me give you an example of reacting versus responding. Suppose you have a co-worker and every time she opens her mouth, it seems that bad news comes out. This person never has anything nice to say about anyone or anything, and all day long you are forced to listen to her negative chatter. What does that person do to you? If you’re in react mode, this person makes you angry, irritated, and frustrated. Having to listen to all that negative talk starts to make you think and talk negatively. That’s a reaction. It’s your automatic involuntary behavior, which is caused by that external stimuli—a negative co-worker. However, you can decide to respond instead of react. A response might be a smile when she says something negative to you. Or you may say something positive in response to her negative words. That positive response will help to keep you from being irritated and frustrated, and it will offset her negative input by your positive one, which will keep you from getting negative like your co-worker. Another response to this negative co-worker might be that you simply remove yourself from her company when you can, to avoid being exposed to her negativity. Or perhaps just develop a technique of quietly changing the subject! Now, you can see a response takes some self-control and discipline on your part. First, you have to be aware of the fact you have a tendency to react poorly in this circumstance, and then you must have an alternate strategy to tell you how to respond, so that you aren’t reacting. Question #5: Are you judging a book by its cover? We all have a tendency to do this. Someone dresses very differently from the way you dress, someone has tattoos all over their body, someone has a different political view from yours—there are just so many ways that we form hard and fast opinions and ideas about people or about a situation just by the way they look—by what you see on the outside. How many people in your life are dear friends, and yet they look very different from you? They have different backgrounds, different life experiences, come from different cultures, and yet they are dear people you know and love. If you judged them by their “cover,” you might never have become good friends. I think of a person in my church, Miss Shirley, who is now with Jesus, who made it her job to stand at the front door every Sunday and welcome everyone. It was her purpose to find a stranger and make that stranger feel welcome. When I first met Miss Shirley, I wanted to take her to a hair stylist and buy her some new clothes. She did not look like she should be welcoming people at the front door! I judged her by her cover, but I came to know her as one of the most effective people in our church. She was loved by so many, and she welcomed so many people into our church who might otherwise never have connected with us. I wish we had a hundred Miss Shirleys. God used her simple appearance to break down barriers, and she was a powerhouse for the Lord. So here are the five questions a wise person will ask herself often: Do I think before I speak? Did I sleep on it? Have I heard both sides? Am I reacting or responding? Am I judging a book by its cover? Proverbs 3:13 says: “Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding.” No matter who you are, how young or how old, you can find wisdom and you will be blessed. I believe these five questions will help you.

Jon Ewing brings a message from 2 Samuel 14:25-15:12 as we continue to learn how the life of King David leads us to the life of King Jesus.Thank you for joining us! To learn more, please visit: https://wcchapel.org/fridaymensbreakfast

Every legacy tells a story—but not every story is one we intended to write. In this message, A Broken Legacy, we trace a sobering arc through the life of David's family—where unchecked sin, delayed confrontation, and spiritual passivity quietly take root and eventually bear devastating fruit. From David's refusal to act, to the rise of Absalom, to a cost far greater than anyone imagined, this passage confronts us with an uncomfortable question: What happens when godly responsibility is ignored? As we walk through 2 Samuel 13, 15, and 18, this sermon invites us to examine our own lives, the influence we're shaping, and the legacy we're leaving behind. Executive Producer: Flavius Herlo Speaker: Pastor Tommy Creutz Sound design, mixing, and editing: Bryan Tripp Graphic Design: Wesley Cassford Social Media: Bryan Spahr Producer: Dave Putnam WE INVITE YOU TO CONNECT WITH US: • Website: https://www.harvestbible.org/ WE INVITE YOU TO FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: • Instagram: @harvestbiblechapel • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harvestbiblechapel/

Have you ever wondered what happens with our prayers? Does God answer them? If so, how does he answer them?This Sunday, we'll see God answer the prayer that David prayed when he was first on the run from Absalom's coup. God's powerful move was David's only hope, but God heard him and answered ... and he hears and answers our prayers, too.2 Samuel 16.15-17.29

2 Samuel 12:7–25 After David's unfaithfulness with Bathsheba, he suffered with troubles at “home” for the remainder of his life. The consequence for his sin began to whirl like a tornado. Journey through scenes of disintegration in David's family life. And discover with Pastor Chuck Swindoll four ways to cope with consequences from sinful choices (2 Samuel 12). Honestly admit your sin and struggles to God and others. Face the consequences of your sin with courage. Don't take lightly the grace of God!

2 Samuel 12:7-25 / February 11-13, 2026 Family feuds, wayward kids, parent-child clashes, husband-wife disagreements, and other in-house pressures have a way of breaking our spirits and stealing our joy. And no one is immune who compromises with God's standard—not even a king such as David. In this study we witness the monarch's misery as the sword of consequences falls on him and his family. From the Series: Fascinating Stories of Forgotten Lives: Rediscovering Some Old Testament Characters read more

After David's unfaithfulness with Bathsheba, he suffered with troubles at “home” for the remainder of his life. The consequence for his sin began to whirl like a tornado. Journey through scenes of disintegration in David's family life. And discover with Pastor Chuck Swindoll four ways to cope with consequences from sinful choices (2 Samuel 12). Honestly admit your sin and struggles to God and others. Face the consequences of your sin with courage. Don't take lightly the grace of God!

Today, we remember Fr. Absalom Jones.The short bio on Fr. Jones is taken from the 2001 edition of the Lesser Feasts and Fasts.The scripture reading for today is from Isaiah 61:1-4(ESV).The Collect comes from the Lesser Feasts and Fasts.

After David's unfaithfulness with Bathsheba, he suffered with troubles at “home” for the remainder of his life. The consequence for his sin began to whirl like a tornado.Journey through scenes of disintegration in David's family life. And discover with Pastor Chuck Swindoll four ways to cope with consequences from sinful choices (2 Samuel 12).Honestly admit your sin and struggles to God and others. Face the consequences of your sin with courage. Don't take lightly the grace of God! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/82/29?v=20251111

2 Samuel 12:7–25 After David's unfaithfulness with Bathsheba, he suffered with troubles at “home” for the remainder of his life. The consequence for his sin began to whirl like a tornado. Journey through scenes of disintegration in David's family life. And discover with Pastor Chuck Swindoll four ways to cope with consequences from sinful choices (2 Samuel 12). Honestly admit your sin and struggles to God and others. Face the consequences of your sin with courage. Don't take lightly the grace of God!

2 Samuel 12:7-25 / February 11-13, 2026 Family feuds, wayward kids, parent-child clashes, husband-wife disagreements, and other in-house pressures have a way of breaking our spirits and stealing our joy. And no one is immune who compromises with God's standard—not even a king such as David. In this study we witness the monarch's misery as the sword of consequences falls on him and his family. From the Series: Fascinating Stories of Forgotten Lives: Rediscovering Some Old Testament Characters read more

After David's unfaithfulness with Bathsheba, he suffered with troubles at “home” for the remainder of his life. The consequence for his sin began to whirl like a tornado. Journey through scenes of disintegration in David's family life. And discover with Pastor Chuck Swindoll four ways to cope with consequences from sinful choices (2 Samuel 12). Honestly admit your sin and struggles to God and others. Face the consequences of your sin with courage. Don't take lightly the grace of God!

Pastor John walks through 2 Samuel 18 and selected verses from 2 Samuel 19, focusing on the conflict between David and his son Absalom and the events surrounding the battle and its aftermath. The study traces the consequences of David's earlier sin, highlighting the biblical principle that we reap what we sow, while also showing David's deep love for his rebellious son and the grief that follows Absalom's death. Along the way, Pastor John addresses themes of God's sovereignty, the importance of speaking truthfully, and the tension between personal sorrow and faithfully carrying out our responsibilities. This teaching also points to the balance of God's justice and mercy, reminding listeners that while sin has real consequences, the Lord is able to restore and extend grace through Jesus Christ. This message offers thoughtful insight into the life of David and practical encouragement for trusting God and walking faithfully in everyday life.

After David's unfaithfulness with Bathsheba, he suffered with troubles at “home” for the remainder of his life. The consequence for his sin began to whirl like a tornado.Journey through scenes of disintegration in David's family life. And discover with Pastor Chuck Swindoll four ways to cope with consequences from sinful choices (2 Samuel 12).Honestly admit your sin and struggles to God and others. Face the consequences of your sin with courage. Don't take lightly the grace of God! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/82/29?v=20251111

2 Samuel 12:7–25 After David's unfaithfulness with Bathsheba, he suffered with troubles at “home” for the remainder of his life. The consequence for his sin began to whirl like a tornado. Journey through scenes of disintegration in David's family life. And discover with Pastor Chuck Swindoll four ways to cope with consequences from sinful choices (2 Samuel 12). Honestly admit your sin and struggles to God and others. Face the consequences of your sin with courage. Don't take lightly the grace of God!

2 Samuel 12:7-25 / February 11-13, 2026 Family feuds, wayward kids, parent-child clashes, husband-wife disagreements, and other in-house pressures have a way of breaking our spirits and stealing our joy. And no one is immune who compromises with God's standard—not even a king such as David. In this study we witness the monarch's misery as the sword of consequences falls on him and his family. From the Series: Fascinating Stories of Forgotten Lives: Rediscovering Some Old Testament Characters read more

2 Samuel 12:7-25 / February 11-13, 2026 Family feuds, wayward kids, parent-child clashes, husband-wife disagreements, and other in-house pressures have a way of breaking our spirits and stealing our joy. And no one is immune who compromises with God's standard—not even a king such as David. In this study we witness the monarch's misery as the sword of consequences falls on him and his family. From the Series: Fascinating Stories of Forgotten Lives: Rediscovering Some Old Testament Characters read more

After David's unfaithfulness with Bathsheba, he suffered with troubles at “home” for the remainder of his life. The consequence for his sin began to whirl like a tornado. Journey through scenes of disintegration in David's family life. And discover with Pastor Chuck Swindoll four ways to cope with consequences from sinful choices (2 Samuel 12). Honestly admit your sin and struggles to God and others. Face the consequences of your sin with courage. Don't take lightly the grace of God!

David forgives Absalom for Amnon's murder, but Absalom still plots to overthrow David. 2 Samuel 14:23-33; 2 Samuel 15:1-12; 13-37; Psalm 3; Psalm 22. #everydaychristians  

David, surrounded by friends and foes, flees Jerusalem before Absalom, but leaves behind strategic allies. 2 Samuel 16:1-14; Psalm 7; 2 Samuel 16:15-23; 2 Samuel 17:1-22; Psalm 4; Psalm 5. #everydaychristians

Today features the showdown between Absalom's armies and David's mighty men. Psalm 71; 2 Samuel 18:1-18, 19-33. #everydaychristians

David's allies provide for him while he is running from Absalom, and we learn some new psalm terms. Psalm 42; Psalm 43; 2 Samuel 17:24-29; Psalm 55; Psalm 62; Psalm 70. #everydaychristians

After David's unfaithfulness with Bathsheba, he suffered with troubles at “home” for the remainder of his life. The consequence for his sin began to whirl like a tornado.Journey through scenes of disintegration in David's family life. And discover with Pastor Chuck Swindoll four ways to cope with consequences from sinful choices (2 Samuel 12).Honestly admit your sin and struggles to God and others. Face the consequences of your sin with courage. Don't take lightly the grace of God! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/82/29?v=20251111

In 2 Samuel 15, David's son Absalom quietly undermines the king's authority as he positions himself for power. The Bible Savvy Podcast team explores how issues left unchecked can grow, spiral, and reshape everything. Looking to better understand the books of 1 and 2 Samuel? You can find Pastor Clayton's interview with Bible scholar Bill Arnold here.

15:13 And a messenger came to David, saying, “The hearts of the men of Israel have gone after Absalom.” 14 Then David said to all his servants who were with him at Jerusalem, “Arise, and let us flee, or else there will be no escape for us from Absalom. Go quickly, lest he overtake us quickly and bring down ruin on us and strike the city with the edge of the sword.”18:1 Then David mustered the men who were with him and set over them commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds. 2 And David sent out the army, one third under the command of Joab, one third under the command of Abishai the son of Zeruiah, Joab's brother, and one third under the command of Ittai the Gittite. And the king said to the men, “I myself will also go out with you.” 3 But the men said, “You shall not go out. For if we flee, they will not care about us. If half of us die, they will not care about us. But you are worth ten thousand of us. Therefore it is better that you send us help from the city.” 4 The king said to them, “Whatever seems best to you I will do.” So the king stood at the side of the gate, while all the army marched out by hundreds and by thousands. 5 And the king ordered Joab and Abishai and Ittai, “Deal gently for my sake with the young man Absalom.” And all the people heard when the king gave orders to all the commanders about Absalom.And behold, the Cushite came, and the Cushite said, “Good news for my lord the king! For the LORD has delivered you this day from the hand of all who rose up against you.” 32 The king said to the Cushite, “Is it well with the young man Absalom?” And the Cushite answered, “May the enemies of my lord the king and all who rise up against you for evil be like that young man.” 33 And the king was deeply moved and went up to the chamber over the gate and wept. And as he went, he said, “O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! Would I had died instead of you, O Absalom, my son, my son!”

2nd Samuel 15 “The Rebellion Begins” 1. Absalom steals the people's heart's (v.1-6) 2. Absalom takes the throne by force (v.7-12) 3. David plans to leave Jerusalem (v.13-18) 4. David flees away from Jerusalem (v.19-39)

The sermon centers on the transformative power of forgiveness in marriage and personal relationships, emphasizing that true forgiveness is not forgetting, nor is it merely feeling sorrow, waiting for time to heal, or merely desiring reconciliation. Drawing from the story of David and Absalom, it underscores that forgiveness requires intentional action—specifically, confronting the offender directly rather than harboring bitterness or gossiping with others. The message highlights that forgiveness is a divine act modeled by God, who remembers sins no more, and calls believers to emulate this by pardoning others as Christ has pardoned them. It stresses that unforgiveness breeds bitterness, damages relationships, and hinders prayer, while choosing to cover transgressions fosters love and unity. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a tenderhearted, Christ-like response, urging listeners to release offenses immediately and seek reconciliation with humility and grace.

I greet you in Jesus' precious name! It is Friday morning, the 6th of February, 2026, and this is your friend, Angus Buchan, with a thought for today. We go to the Gospel of John 17:21. And this is Jesus speaking to His Father: ”that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me.” I want to speak to you this morning about relationships, and I want to speak to you about probably the hardest place to keep a relationship. Where is it? It's at home. Oh yes, I can see you smiling, and some of you aren't. It's not easy. The first murder in the Bible after the creation of the earth was between two brothers, Cain and Abel. Cain killed his brother, Abel. Look at the dispute that Abraham had with his nephew, Lot, when they argued about who was going to have the high land and who was going to have the low land. What about Moses and his brother, Aaron and his sister, Miriam? What an argument they had! If God hadn't intervened there, there would have been big trouble because of family.What about David and Absalom? David was so blinded by the love that he had for his son, that he couldn't see that his son was plotting to kill him. If it wasn't for David's men, his own son would have killed him. What about Paul, Barnabas, and John Mark? They had a terrible fallout because of John Mark, and Paul said, ”I'm not going with him again. He let us down once before and that's it.” Barnabas said, ”No, well I am taking him.” And they split up.Now, this is not a negative message, my dear friend, it's a challenging message. Jesus says that you and I must love one another in the family so that the world can believe that the Father sent Jesus down to the earth. “A new commandment I give unto you that you love one another as I have loved you. By this shall all men know that you are My disciples, if you have love, one for another.”John 13:34-35A new commandment I give unto you that you love one another as I have loved you. That you love one another as I have loved you. By this shall all men know that you are My disciples, if you have love, one for another.By this shall all men know that you are My disciples, if you have love, one for another.Let's love each other. Let's sit down after this message and say, ”Dad, I forgive you”; ”Mom, I forgive you”; “Son, I forgive you.”; “ Daughter, I forgive you.” For Christ's sake, let's do it. Jesus bless you and have a wonderful day.Goodbye.

Pastor Gerrit continues through 2 Samuel 15:32–17, focusing on David's flight from Jerusalem during Absalom's rebellion and God's providential care in a season of sorrow and uncertainty. The message highlights David's submitted heart as he weeps, worships, and prays, trusting the Lord even as trusted relationships fracture and opposition increases. Attention is given to God's answer to David's prayer through Hushai, whose counsel overturns the plans of Ahithophel and preserves David's life. Along the way, the passage addresses themes of discernment in the face of deception, restraint under unjust criticism, and the danger of unresolved bitterness. This teaching helps listeners see how God remains faithful to His purposes and promises, even when circumstances appear disordered and painful.

A Father's Love: David's grief over Absalom reveals the depth of a father's love. It points to the Father's love revealed on the Cross. Every human life is loved this deeply.

2 Samuel 18:9-10, 14, 24-25, 30-19:3 (O my son Absalom! Would I had died instead of you) Isaiah 52:7-10 (All the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God))

2 Samuel 15_Whose favor will I seek? Who will decide what seems good in my life?_ These are big questions that decide a lot about how we live in relation to one another and to God.In this week's sermon, we'll see Absalom, back in Jerusalem, making himself seem good as a righteous judge before the people ... all the while, he's really making a move for the throne against God's King, David. As King David hears the news, he leaves Jerusalem weeping and resting his hopes on God's favor to bring about a return. Either way, David is ready to embrace whatever seems good to God.

2nd Samuel 14 “A Partial Return” 1. Joab's story of seeking restoration (v.1-11) 2. The request to bring Absalom back (v.12-22) 3. Retuning without any accountability (v.23-33)

Originally recorded and released Jan. 29, 2026.Join Amanda Grace as she prophetically connects current events to biblical figures and patterns. Absalom is at the gate, plotting a revolt...NEW! Prayer Lines now available Mon - Fri, 9am-5pm ET. CALL 845-743-6500 or 845-743-2583The Revelationary War is available NOW! Get your copy here: https://buff.ly/4fnuDd7Preorder Amanda's second book, Brace for Impact: https://buff.ly/PiQgPcEMusic Copyright References:-131615741-Awards Inspirational Cinematic Music (Short 3) [Upbeat Nomination Epic Orchestra] Stock Media provided by JadSound / Pond5-21981893-Corporate And Inspirational Cinematic Background Music (1.00 Minutes Version) Stock Media provided by StockAudios / Pond5-151471022-Uplifting Inspirational CorporateStock Media provided by Patrick_Schlebes / Pond5-154756307-Magic Fireflies Loop Version2(Modern And Relaxing Background) Stock Media provided by Lesya_NZ / Pond5-123859534-Successful Product Presentation 60S - P5 Stock Media provided by Wolfgangwoehrle / Pond5-105166597-Believe in You (Inspirational And Uplifting)- P5 Stock Media provided by DivaProductionMusic / Pond5Music License: https://www.pond5.com/legal/license/20230221Purchase ID/Date: 7365245 / 9-29-2023Website: https://arkofgrace.orgPrayer Requests: https://arkofgrace.org/prayer-requestsDonate: https://arkofgrace.org/donatePartners: https://arkofgrace.org/ministry-partners

Send us a textTo receive my weekly newsletter: subscribe on Substack.Jeremy McCandless | SubstackTo receive all my podcasts early and  ad free follow me for free on Patreon:Jeremy McCandless | Creating Podcasts and Bible Study Resources | Welcome:Today, we step into a chapter that feels very different from the intensity of the last few episodes. The battle is over. Absalom is gone. The rebellion has collapsed. But the story is far from finished because now comes the part that is often harder than the conflict itself: The healing, what some today call the peace-building phase following war. David returns to Jerusalem, the tribes return to unity, and a nation begins returning to stability. But none of it happens cleanly or quickly, and none of it happens without tension.In this episode, we'll work through three key movements: 1. A King Who Must Rise from His Grief.2. Then A Nation That Must Choose Unity Again. 3. A Return Marked by Mercy, Justice, and Surprising Encounter. This chapter is not as dramatic as Chapter 18. It is not fast‑moving like chapter 17; it is quieter, more relational, more human. It shows us that healing a kingdom — or a family, or a friendship, or a community — requires humility, patience, courage, and grace. So today, we explore a chapter where the king returns, the people come together, and the long work of restoration begins..... Welcome to the episode….Land Development Conversations with Developers, Builders, and Industry LeadersReal conversations from the development world.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showFollow and Support All my Creative endeavours on Patreon. Jeremy McCandless | Creating Podcasts and Bible Study Resources | Patreon Check out my other Podcasts. The Bible Project: https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com History of the Christian Church: https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com The L.I.F.E. Podcast: (Philosophy and current trends in the Arts and Entertainment Podcast). https://the-living-in-faith-everyday-podcast.buzzsprout.com The Renewed Mind Podcast. My Psychology and Mental Health Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568891 The Classic Literature Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568906

Send us a textTo receive my weekly newsletter: subscribe on Substack.Jeremy McCandless | SubstackTo receive all my podcasts early and  ad free follow me for free on Patreon:Jeremy McCandless | Creating Podcasts and Bible Study Resources | Today, we step into one of the most heartbreaking chapters in the entire life story of David.  If the last few episodes have shown us the slow build‑up of tension — the rebellion forming, the consequences unfolding, the escape narrowing — chapter 18 brings us to the moment where everything converges. This is the chapter where the battle finally breaks out. This is where Absalom's fate is sealed, and its the chapter where David's heart is broken. But beyond the heartbreak is something deeper: The faithfulness of God, the weight of choices, and the cost of rebellion. 1. The Battle Begins.  2. Absalom's Fate' 3. David's Grief. So, let's walk through a chapter filled with conflict, compassion, and consequences. A chapter that reminds us that leadership is sometimes costly, and the heart of God is always more tender than we imagine.... Welcome to the episode…  Land Development Conversations with Developers, Builders, and Industry LeadersReal conversations from the development world.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showFollow and Support All my Creative endeavours on Patreon. Jeremy McCandless | Creating Podcasts and Bible Study Resources | Patreon Check out my other Podcasts. The Bible Project: https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com History of the Christian Church: https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com The L.I.F.E. Podcast: (Philosophy and current trends in the Arts and Entertainment Podcast). https://the-living-in-faith-everyday-podcast.buzzsprout.com The Renewed Mind Podcast. My Psychology and Mental Health Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568891 The Classic Literature Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568906

In this verse-by-verse Bible teaching from 2 Samuel 14:25–15:37, Pastor Gerrit explores the theme of holy and unholy ambition through the contrast between Absalom and King David. The message traces Absalom's calculated pursuit of power, showing how selfish ambition leads to deception, division, and unrest among God's people. In contrast, David's response to rejection and betrayal reveals a heart committed to waiting on the Lord, trusting God's will even in loss and uncertainty. Through David's prayers, actions, and worship while fleeing Jerusalem, the passage highlights what it looks like to pursue God's purposes rather than personal gain. This study in 2 Samuel offers thoughtful biblical insight into ambition, leadership, discernment, and faithfulness before God.

Send us a textToday, we move into a chapter where the real battle isn't fought with swords or armies — it's fought with counsel, with strategy, and with the unseen hand of God quietly shaping the outcome.This is the chapter where human wisdom on one level reaches its highest point… and yet still falls short of the purposes of God. It's where the most brilliant strategist in Israel gives flawless advice — and God overturns it with a word. It's where Absalom looks unstoppable — and yet the seeds of his downfall are already being sown. We're going to walk through this chapter today in three sections: 1. Ahithophel's Counsel — Brilliant, Ruthless, and Humanly Unbeatable. t is almost flawless. From heaven's perspective, it is already doomed. 2. Hushai's Counter‑Counsel. Then Hushai steps forward with a plan that appeals not to strategy, but to Absalom's ego. And in that moment, God bends the heart of a rebellious son towards choosing the wrong plan — the very thing that will save David's life. 3. The Escape — God's Protection of David. David is exhausted, vulnerable, and outnumbered — but he is not unprotected. This chapter is a helpful reminder that God does not need the odds in His favour to accomplish His will.  He simply speaks — and the counsel of the wise is overturned.Welcome to the episode…. Land Development Conversations with Developers, Builders, and Industry LeadersReal conversations from the development world.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showFollow and Support All my Creative endeavours on Patreon. Jeremy McCandless | Creating Podcasts and Bible Study Resources | Patreon Check out my other Podcasts. The Bible Project: https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com History of the Christian Church: https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com The L.I.F.E. Podcast: (Philosophy and current trends in the Arts and Entertainment Podcast). https://the-living-in-faith-everyday-podcast.buzzsprout.com The Renewed Mind Podcast. My Psychology and Mental Health Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568891 The Classic Literature Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568906

Send us a textTo receive all my podcasts early and  ad free follow me for free on Patreon:Jeremy McCandless | Creating Podcasts and Bible Study Resources | PatreonTo receive my weekly newsletter: subscribe on Substack.Jeremy McCandless | SubstackEpisode Notes:Today, we step into one of the most emotionally charged chapters in the entire story of David — a chapter where the king is down, the kingdom is shaking, and yet God is quietly, faithfully at work behind the scenes. Chapter 15 showed us David fleeing Jerusalem with a broken heart; Chapter 16 shows us what happens on the road — a road of humiliation, a road of loss, a road where everything familiar has been stripped away. And it's on that very road that God begins to reveal something really quite profound: This chapter will be unpacked through its three dramatic scenes, each one showing us a different angle of what it means to trust God when life is falling apart. 1. Verses 1–4 — We meet Ziba1.       Verses 5–13 — We then meet Shimei. 2.       Verses 14–23 — We see Absalom's Arrival in Jerusalem. This is a chapter about humiliation and betrayal, but also about faith, restraint, and the quiet, steady work of God in the background. It's a chapter that speaks to anyone who has ever walked through a season where life felt unfair, where people misunderstood you, or where circumstances seemed stacked against you. So, let's walk with David through this difficult chapter of his life— because in his story, we can discover something true about our own.... No matter what, God is still working. Welcome to the episode…..Land Development Conversations with Developers, Builders, and Industry LeadersReal conversations from the development world.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showFollow and Support All my Creative endeavours on Patreon. Jeremy McCandless | Creating Podcasts and Bible Study Resources | Patreon Check out my other Podcasts. The Bible Project: https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com History of the Christian Church: https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com The L.I.F.E. Podcast: (Philosophy and current trends in the Arts and Entertainment Podcast). https://the-living-in-faith-everyday-podcast.buzzsprout.com The Renewed Mind Podcast. My Psychology and Mental Health Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568891 The Classic Literature Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568906

"Who Is Your King?"  Absalom rebells against David's kingship.  Ultimately, David knows God's will always prevails.Craig Ford2 Samuel 15:1 - 16:14  January 25, 2026

Power can be used to protect—or to destroy. In this episode of Talk'N Truth, Dan Whitney (aka Larry the Cable Guy), Arnie Cole, and Pastor Bryan Clark take an unflinching look at the abuse of power through one of the darkest stretches in David's story. Drawing from 2 Samuel 20, the conversation exposes how leaders like Joab, Absalom, Sheba, and even David himself used influence for personal gain—and how innocent people paid the price. From the unnamed woman who saves an entire city, to the ten concubines whose lives are permanently altered, this chapter forces us to slow down and remember: these aren't abstract Bible characters—they're real people, deeply wounded by the selfish choices of powerful men. The guys wrestle honestly with why humanity hasn't changed, why power so often corrupts, and why Scripture consistently condemns using people instead of serving them. They also highlight the Bible's surprisingly high view of women, lifting up courageous, unnamed figures whose wisdom and bravery bring peace where violence was imminent. Beyond ancient history, the episode turns personal. Dan shares about influence, identity, and why success can quietly become a substitute for Jesus if we're not careful. Whether you're a pastor, parent, leader, or simply someone with a small circle of influence, the question is unavoidable: Are you using what you've been given to help others flourish—or to serve yourself? This conversation ultimately points forward to Jesus—the only leader who never abused power, never exploited others, and laid His life down instead. Grace is real. Redemption is possible. But influence always comes with responsibility. Perfect for viewers interested in: Bible study podcasts, abuse of power, leadership and influence, 2 Samuel 20, King David, Joab, biblical justice, women in Scripture, Christian identity, humility, repentance, and living out faith with integrity. #BibleStudy #ChristianPodcast #TalkNTruth #LarryTheCableGuy #ArnieCole #BryanClark #Leadership #AbuseOfPower #2Samuel20 #ChristianLiving #FaithAndInfluence #BackToTheBible #UseYourInfluence