1 - In verses 1-4, what is Ahithophel's plan to eliminate David and establish the kingdom for Absalom? Why is it such great plan? Why was it likely to succeed? What advantages does Ahithophel forsee?

2 – In verses 5-14, Why does Absalom ask Hushai's opinion? Why might Absalom be suspicious of Hushai's divided loyalty? What does Hushai know going into the meeting? What does he learn from Absalom? What is Hushai implying when he says, (v7) "This time Ahithophel's counsel is not good?" How does Hushai appeal to fear, caution, and flattery? Why would Absalom and his advisors go against Ahithophel's advice? (v14)

3 – In verse 15-22, How is David's intelligence network organized? What problems and dangers arose? Why is it critical to get information to David in a hurry?

4 – In verses 23, Why did Ahithophel commit suicide? How does scripture portray the man? Was he wrong to be outraged at David's behavior? Why did he end up on the wrong side of history?

5 – In verses 24-29, who were Shobi, Machir, and Barzillai? Why are they unlikely allies? What was at stake for them? Why did they help David even though he might lose?

What motivates us to take a stand against powerful enemies of Christ? How do we know that we are on the right side of history?