2 Samuel 3:17

17 Abner sent word to the elders of Israel, saying, "For some time past you have been seeking David as king over you.

2 Samuel 3:17 Meaning and Commentary

2 Samuel 3:17

And Abner had communication with the elders of Israel
Had a conference with the chiefs of the several tribes about the affairs of the kingdom:

saying, ye sought for David in time past [to be] king over you;
that is, at the death of Saul, and not before; for it was pretty generally known throughout the kingdom that David was anointed by Samuel and Saul himself had declared that he knew the kingdom would come to him; so that upon his death it was the general expectation and desire of the people that the government would devolve upon him, as it doubtless would, if Abner had not set up one of Saul's house, and persuaded the Israelites to own him their king.

2 Samuel 3:17 In-Context

15 Ishbaal sent and took her from her husband Paltiel the son of Laish.

16 But her husband went with her, weeping as he walked behind her all the way to Bahurim. Then Abner said to him, "Go back home!" So he went back.

17 Abner sent word to the elders of Israel, saying, "For some time past you have been seeking David as king over you.

18 Now then bring it about; for the Lord has promised David: Through my servant David I will save my people Israel from the hand of the Philistines, and from all their enemies."

19 Abner also spoke directly to the Benjaminites; then Abner went to tell David at Hebron all that Israel and the whole house of Benjamin were ready to do.