(a) Narrate the events which led to the reconciliation between David and Abner (b) What two lessons could be derived from

(a) The events leading to the reconciliation between David and Abner (2 Samuel 3)

• After the death of Saul, there was a long war between the house of Saul and the house of David. David grew stronger while the house of Saul grew weaker.
• Abner, the commander of Saul's army, had made Ishbosheth, Saul's son, king over Israel, holding the real power in the northern kingdom.
• Ishbosheth accused Abner of going in to Rizpah, Saul's concubine, a charge implying a claim to the throne. Abner became very angry.
• Abner swore to transfer the kingdom from the house of Saul to David and to set up David's throne over all Israel and Judah. Ishbosheth was too afraid to answer him.
• Abner sent messengers to David, offering to make a covenant and to bring all Israel over to him. David agreed, but on one condition, that Abner should bring Michal, Saul's daughter and David's wife.
• Abner then conferred with the elders of Israel and the Benjamites, urging them to make David king, and went to Hebron to report to David.
• David made a feast for Abner and the men with him. Abner promised to gather all Israel to David, and David sent him away in peace. Thus the two were reconciled.
• (Afterwards, Joab, unaware of the peace, treacherously killed Abner to avenge his brother Asahel, and David publicly mourned Abner and declared himself innocent of his blood.)

(b) Two lessons that could be derived from the story

1. Reconciliation and peace-making are pleasing to God. David was willing to receive a former enemy and make peace, showing that grievances can be set aside for the common good.
2. Pride and revenge are destructive. Ishbosheth's rash accusation and Joab's vengeful murder show how anger and revenge can undo efforts at peace and bring ruin.