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Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.comThrough the Bible Day by Day - 1 Samuel 22:11 - 22:11
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the Slaughter of David’s Friends
1Sa 22:11-23
The Apostle James says that “the tongue is set on fire of hell.” Surely this was the case when Saul, encamped on the height above Gibeah, scattered his biting words like firebrands. They met with a ready response in Doeg’s evil heart, and the two perpetrated one of the most atrocious tragedies of history.
This black act-the blackest of Saul’s life-was not to be extenuated, although it executed the malediction, uttered long before in the days of Eli, against the latter’s evil house. That Saul’s footmen refused to execute the king’s sentence should have made Him hesitate. Doeg’s tale was true in its statement, but false in its implications.
There is nothing to alleviate the lurid horror of this incident, except David’s welcome to Abiathar. Are not such words addressed by our Lord to all who escape to Him? “Abide with me” may be understood in the light of Joh 15:1-27. With Christ there is safeguard. “Your life is hid with Christ in God.” Fear not, trembling soul; Christ stands surety for thee! See Psa 52:1-9, where David predicts Doeg’s fate, and contrasts it with his own happy lot.