SF485 - A Great Man Has Fallen (2 Samuel 3 38)

SF485

Chip Odum's funeral 1/22/95

A GREAT MAN HAS FALLEN

2 Samuel 3:38

INTRODUCTION

Biblical Context

Abner has been assassinated by Joab.

Although Abner had been Saul's general, David recognized his worth to the kingdom.

David mourns the death of Abner because the kingdom had lost a great man, and a great leader.

Modern Application

We have reason to mourn today.

Not for Chip but for ourselves.

For surely we have lost a great man and leader.

Indeed a prince has fallen in our midst.

What Makes a Man Great In The Kingdom?

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1A.       CHOSEN BY THE KING

(1 Samuel 14:50‑52)  ...The name of the commander of Saul's army was Abner ... All the days of Saul there was bitter war with the Philistines, and whenever Saul saw a mighty or brave man, he took him into his service.

Saved 1952 - 43 years

2A.       STAYED CLOSE TO THE KING

(1 Samuel 20:25)  He sat in his customary place by the wall, opposite Jonathan, and Abner sat next to Saul, but David's place was empty.

Ordained as a Deacon 1953 - 42 years

3A.       SERVED THE KING TILL THE END

(2 Samuel 3:21)  Then Abner said to David, "Let me go at once and assemble all Israel for my lord the king, so that they may make a compact with you, and that you may rule over all that your heart desires."

Taught Sunday School 35 years

West Haven 5 years

Taught his class for the last time 2 weeks ago!

So David sent Abner away, and he went in peace.

On Thursday the Lord sent Chip away and he went in peace!