Sermon Central
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The Man Who Would Not Forgive
Contributed by Jonathan Russell on Jun 29, 2007 (message contributor)
Summary: Examining the life of Ahithophel and what happened when he refused to forgive David
Notice four things about Ahithophel’s life and his unforgiving spirit...
1. His GREATNESS (16:23)
A. He was great because of his position.
B. He was great because of his posterity.
Son: Eliam (one of David’s mighty men)
Granddaughter: Bathsheba (future queen)
The lesson we learn: You are never so spiritual or so godly that you are immune to an unforgiving spirit.
2. His GRIEF (Various)
What caused him grief?
A. Seduction: David seduced Bathsheba (2 Sam. 11:2-5)
B. Murder: David had Uriah killed (2 Sam. 11:14-17)
C. Cover Up: David married Bathsheba (2 Sam. 11:27)
The lesson we learn: A deep hurt will not destroy us, but how we handle it will.
3. His GUILT (Various)
A. He left his place of service (2 Sam. 15:12)
B. He disregarded David’s repentance (2 Sam. 12:13; Ps. 51:3-4)
C. He joined the Absalom conspiracy (2 Sam. 15:31)
D. He gave vengeful counsel (2 Sam. 16:22; 17:1-4)
The lesson we learn: While we might be the victim of someone else’s sin, our reaction can also make us become the assailant.
4. His GRAVE (17:23)
A. His defeat commenced when he refused to forgive even when God did.
B. His defeat continued as he sought revenge.
C. His defeat consummated when his counsel was rejected.
2 Sam. 17:5-7, 14, 23
The lesson we learn: Possessing an unforgiving spirit can lead to a disastrous consequences.
What should our reaction be?
