Choices Have Consequences [Absalom's Rebellion]

Because we still have a sinful nature, you and I have an ability to close our eyes to the consequences of our choices. We can easily deny their existence. We can tell ourselves when we are doing wrong that “it will be ok” or “it will turn out alright” or “we ought not worry”. We have an important opportunity to see that choices have consequences.

I. The Root of Sin.
A. The Rebellion of the rebel heart.
1. The first thing Absalom did was to give himself a radical makeover as a Great King.
2. The second thing Absalom did was manipulate the hearts of the people.

B. The (false) Reverence of a rebel's heart.
1. First, we see that instead of worshipping we see Absalom stages his own coronation.
2. Then, Absalom deprives David of 200 of his closest friends and brings them from Jerusalem to Hebron.
3. Third, we see one of David's closest and most trusted counselors becomes a conspirator (Ahithophel, Bathsheba's father).
4. Finally, David is told of Absalom's rebellion in verse 13.

II. The Fruit of sin.
A. David's procession (verses 23, 30).
B. David's process of thinking (Psalm 3).

III. The Way to making Good Decisions in the first place.
A. Remember sin begins in one unguarded moment.
B. Your decision to sin may be momentary, but the consequences can be for a lifetime.
C. Remember the law of sowing and reaping! Galatians 6:7
D. Remember that “the way of the transgressor is hard”! Sin truly is a mess! God can allow you to sometimes have lesser consequences because of his grace, but there is still damage with sin that will not be undone until Jesus comes.