Absalom sent for Joab— The reader who is little versed in courts will naturally be surprised to see Joab so zealous to get Absalom recalled from exile, and to observe him afterwards so cold and indifferent about having him re-established in his father's favour. The truth is, when Joab had greatly gratified the king, and gained credit with him, by bringing back Absalom to Jerusalem, he had little reason, as a minister, to be solicitous to bring him about the king's person, and restore him to full favour; because in that case he might naturally apprehend, that Absalom's interest with his father might impair his own. This the young man's ambition could but ill endure, and therefore he took this extraordinary step to be set right with his father; a step, indeed, which shewed him determined to go any lengths, rather than fall short of his ambitious aims. He that could set his friend's field on fire barely to be admitted to court, would little scruple to set his country in a flame (if I may be allowed the expression) to be raised to a crown: although, possibly, this injury to Joab might have been an artifice to prevent the king's suspicion of their combination, and Joab's too great attachment to the interest of his son.
REFLECTIONS.—Joab is prevailed upon to intercede with David, and he at last consents to receive him. Absalom is introduced; the king, with paternal tenderness, seals by a kiss his reconciliation; and, believing his son's professions real, reinstates him in all his former honours. Note; (1.) A parent's fondness often makes him blind to his children's ill designs: he fain would hope the best, even against hope. (2.) How much more tender is the reception which the returning prodigal meets with from his heavenly Father, when by the Spirit his pardon is sealed!