The Portrait of a Rebel

A Phone Tree Bible Study Group ACTion Article


Reading Assignment: 2 Samuel 20:1

Personal Reflection ACTion Statement:

The selfish, self-serving rebel, with his unruly heart, his defiant attitude, and his recalcitrant nature, is a far cry from being obedient. He is a narcissist who practices the art of antagonism. He actively entices and provokes, all while seeking to undermine authority. He incites chaos and encourages conflict. However, his plots and schemes will always find him out. His wayward, disorderly behavior all but guarantees a swift race toward the path of destruction. In the spiritual sense, there will be no salvation in the face of his divisive obstinance.


Bible Study Questions to Consider:

1) Considering etymology, what is the Hebrew meaning of the word rebel (in the noun form)?

2) Based on 2 Samuel 20:1, what can be deduced about Sheba?

3) In chapter 20, how and/or why are the people divided?

4) In Biblical terms, what is the usual meaning of the blowing of a trumpet or a horn? Why is the act considered to be significant, as it relates to Sheba?

5) What chain of events transpired following Sheba’s revolt?

6) What was the final outcome of the rebellion?

7) Why is it important to know that order was restored under King David?


Meditative Scripture:


Photo Credit: FreeP!k, BibleHub

A Study on the Books of Samuel: 2 Samuel 20


This week,

  • Pray the Psalm 27 prayer over your life and over the lives of those who are in your sphere of influence.
  • Read 2 Samuel 20.
  • Take notes on the following:
    • The Life, Rebellion, and Death of Sheba the Benjamite
    • The Men of Israel Versus the Men of Judah
    • The 10 Concubines
    • Amasa, Commander of the King’s Army
    • Abishai (David’s nephew)
    • The Presence and Actions of Joab
    • The Wise Woman of Abel Beth Maacah
    • King David’s Officials and Their Posts
  • Look for A Phone Tree Bible Study Group ACTion Article later this week.


Photo Credit: ​The Tel Abel Beth Maacah Excavations