The war between the house of David and the house of Saul. Six sons born to David in Hebron, 1-5. Abner, displeased with Ish-bosheth, 6-11, revolteth to David, who requireth of him that he bring with him Michal, which he does, and communes with the elders of Israel; is feasted by David and dismissed, 12-21. Joab returning from battle is displeased with the king, and treacherously murdereth Abner, 22-27. David curseth Joab, 28-30. Mourneth over Abner, 31-39.
Matthew Henry: 'The battle between Joab and Abner did not end the controversy between the two houses of Saul and David, but it is in this chapter working towards a period. Here is, I. The gradual advance of David's interest, verse 1. II. The building up of his family, verses 2-5. III. Abner's quarrel with Ish-bosheth, and his treaty with David, verses 6-12. IV. The preliminaries settled, verses 13-16. V. Abner's undertaking and attempt to bring Israel over to David, verses 17-21. VI. The treacherous murder of Abner by Joab, when he was carrying on this matter, verses 22-27. VII. David's great concern and trouble for the death of Abner, verses 28-39.'
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