The ever suave and masterful politician, Absalom carefully and purposefully engrained himself within the hearts of Israel. Second Samuel 15:1-6 records his strategy. For four years the king’s son positioned himself at the city gates, shaking hands and kissing the people. When someone felt slighted because their case had not garnered the attention of the king, Absalom was quick to console them. “Oh that I were made judge in the land, and everyone who has any suit or cause would come to me; then I would give him justice” (2 Sam. 15:4). It was all an empty charade designed to win the will of the people, and it worked. Scripture says “So Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel” (2 Sam. 15:6).
Commentators point out that the phrase does not refer to their affection, but to their minds, or, understanding. In other words, Absalom deceived them into believing that he was “the people’s king” who really cared. Sadly, he would not be the last one to deceive people into believing a lie.
- False teachers deceive. Jesus called them “wolves in sheep’s clothing” (Matt. 7:15). They work secretly to exploit and bring about destruction (2 Pet. 2:1-3). They fulfill the desires of the people with pleasant messages void of truth and any real spiritual depth (2 Tim. 4:3-4).
- Pride deceives. The Lord informed the Edomites, “The pride of your heart has deceived you…” (Ob. 3). Pride deceives us because it keeps us from seeing ourselves as we really are. Pride blinds us to our imperfections and, most importantly, to our need for God!
- Worldliness deceives. Matthew 13:22 describes those who turn their backs on the Lord due to “the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches.” The pleasures of this life may provide some satisfaction but will ultimately leave us empty. Remember Hebrews 11:25!
- Bad Friendships deceive. Paul said, “Do not be deceived: evil company corrupts good habits” (1 Cor. 15:33). If we’re honest we’ll have to admit that it is often easier to be influenced by carnally minded peers that it is to influence them for Christ. Be careful of the company you keep!
What Absalom did was wrong. It was sinful. He purposely sought to deceive and mislead Israel. But that’s what sin does (Heb. 3:13) and so we must always be on watch for modern day Absalom’s seeking to steal our hearts.