The Danger Of Unfinished Rebellions Series

THE DANGER OF UNFINISHED REBELLIONS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 2 Samuel 20:1-26

Supporting Texts: Ecclesiastes 8:11, Proverbs 29:1, Matthew 12:43-45, Romans 16:17-18, Hebrews 12:15

INTRODUCTION:

In the aftermath of Absalom’s failed rebellion and David’s restoration, a new problem arose—Sheba, a man of rebellion from the tribe of Benjamin, incited Israel to turn against David again. Though the previous uprising had ended, the spirit of rebellion was not completely dealt with. This chapter serves as a sobering reminder that if rebellion is not fully uprooted, it can rise again through new vessels.

Rebellions often leave behind seeds—of offence, bitterness, tribalism, and pride. These seeds, if left unchallenged, may re-emerge as new crises, even after the apparent victory of restoration. Every spiritual leader must remain vigilant, discerning and decisive in order to secure peace and continuity after God brings restoration.

This passage also reveals that timely action is crucial in dealing with subtle rebellion. David acted quickly by sending his commanders, and a wise woman ultimately helped bring the crisis to an end. From this, we learn that wisdom, authority, and urgency are key to preserving what God has restored.

1. REBELLION OFTEN HIDES BEHIND CHARISMA AND TRIBAL LOYALTY

Sheba's rebellion was not driven by divine purpose but personal ambition.

a) “We have no share in David… every man to his tents, O Israel!” (2 Samuel 20:1)

Sheba used emotional rhetoric to divide the people once again.

b) Charismatic rebels often manipulate ethnic or emotional sentiments to stir division

They tap into unresolved grievances to push their own agenda.

c) Not every loud voice is anointed—some are simply bitter or self-seeking

Spiritual leaders must discern between genuine grievance and demonic ambition.

d) The spirit of rebellion often re-emerges through subtle dissatisfaction after a crisis

Without discernment, yesterday’s victory can become today’s vulnerability.

Biblical Example: Korah used popular appeal to rebel against Moses’ leadership (Numbers 16:1-3).

2. INACTION IN LEADERSHIP INVITES GREATER TROUBLE

Joab had been replaced by Amasa, but David's new appointment delayed decisive response.

a) “Then said the king to Amasa… assemble the men… within three days” (2 Samuel 20:4)

David wanted a new general, but Amasa failed to act on time.

b) Delay in executing divine instruction can give rebellion time to grow

The enemy does not wait for us to be ready.

c) Leadership must not be based on sentiment, but on capacity and obedience

Amasa’s inability proved costly.

d) When leaders fail to act swiftly in spiritual matters, the enemy exploits the delay

Speed is often spiritual when dealing with crisis.

Biblical Example: Saul’s inaction allowed Amalek to regroup and led to his rejection (1 Samuel 15:18-23).

3. UNRESOLVED OFFENCE OPENS THE DOOR TO VIOLENT AMBITION

Joab kills Amasa—his rival—and reclaims military control.

a) “Joab took Amasa by the beard… and struck him in the stomach” (2 Samuel 20:9-10)

Joab concealed murder with the pretence of a kiss.

b) Offence and rivalry, when left unchecked, produce treachery even among leaders

Joab was more loyal to himself than to David.

c) Not every person around the throne has a pure heart; some serve with hidden ambition

Wise leadership must discern intentions.

d) God holds leaders accountable not only for what they permit, but for what they fail to correct

David tolerated Joab’s previous murders and now faced further fallout.

Biblical Example: Absalom killed Amnon under the cover of revenge, but his true aim was power (2 Samuel 13:28-29).

4. DIVINE WISDOM CAN BRING PEACE WHERE STRENGTH FAILS

A wise woman in Abel of Beth-maachah saved her city by exposing Sheba.

a) “I am one of the peaceable and faithful in Israel…” (2 Samuel 20:19)

She appealed for negotiation, not destruction.

b) Sometimes, battles are not won by swords but by words full of wisdom

Her discernment prevented unnecessary bloodshed.

c) God raises uncommon voices—often unexpected—to protect His purposes

She saved an entire city by confronting rebellion head-on.

d) Peacemakers are God’s instruments for sustaining divine order in turbulent times

One wise woman did what a whole army could not.

Biblical Example: Abigail’s wisdom turned away David’s wrath and preserved her household (1 Samuel 25:18-33).

5. REBELLION MUST BE CONFRONTED AND CUT OFF COMPLETELY

Sheba was beheaded and the threat to the kingdom neutralised.

a) “Behold, his head shall be thrown to you over the wall” (2 Samuel 20:21)

The woman ensured the root of the rebellion was completely destroyed.

b) Partial confrontation of rebellion often leads to its reappearance in another form

You must not pet what God has commanded you to kill.

c) The head of rebellion must be dealt with—spiritually, emotionally, and structurally

If the source is left intact, it will rise again.

d) Peace was restored not just by negotiation, but by eliminating the threat entirely

Spiritual warfare requires thorough obedience.

Biblical Example: Samuel finished what Saul did not by killing Agag, king of Amalek (1 Samuel 15:32-33).