1 Samuel 22:11-23 - The Slaughter Of David's Friends
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 John 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 Psalms 52:1-9, where David predicts Doeg's fate, and contrasts it with his own happy lot. [source]
Chapter Summary: 1 Samuel 22
1Companies resort unto David at Adullam 3At Mizpeh he commends his parents unto the king of Moab 5Admonished by Gad, he comes to Hareth, 6Saul going to pursue him, complains of his servants' unfaithfulness 9Doeg accuses Ahimelech 11Saul commands to kill the priests 17The footmen refusing, Doeg executes it 20Abiathar escaping, brings David the news
What do the individual words in 1 Samuel 22:16 mean?
And saidthe kingsurelyYou shall dieAhimelechyouand allhouseof your father