Abiathar was a priest of the line of Aaron and Eli. He was the only son of Ahimelech to escape the massacre at Nob. He succeeded his father as high priest, fled to David and became a faithful follower of David. Abiathar was a man of some charisma. The Lord’s statement, Mark 2. 25-26, attributes to him the giving of the shewbread to David. Could it have been that, although Ahimelech was the high priest, the leader amongst the priests was Abiathar?
Scripture contains much about Abiathar’s association with David. He was faithful during his exile and enquired of the Lord for him, 1 Sam. 23. 9-12; 30. 7, etc. He was faithful when David reigned in Hebron and was present when the ark was taken to Jerusalem, 1 Chron. 15. 11-12. Abiathar supported David at the time of Absalom’s rebellion and, later, Solomon said to him, ’thou hast been afflicted in all wherein my father was afflicted’, 1 Kgs. 2. 26.
The record of Abiathar’s life up to this point is one of dedication to the cause of David. David could and did depend on him for support and guidance. As such, Abiathar is a commendable example to us in our day.
Abiathar’s latter years were troubled by his support of Adonijah’s claim to the throne. It is remarkable that the man who was so close to David, and who frequently enquired of the Lord on his behalf, should oppose David’s expressed desire that Solomon should succeed him, 1 Kgs. 1. 13.
Paul reminded believers in Corinth, 1 Cor. 4. 7, that all we have is that which we have received through grace and, therefore, we have no grounds for boasting. Again, past blessings must not be presumed upon to provide easy solutions to present difficulties. This seems to be the trap into which Abiathar fell. Did he think that his successful service with David would enable him to influence a new king? Did he seek a more exalted position for himself? Would life for him be the more comfortable if Adonijah was king? Whatever the motive, Abiathar found himself opposing God’s will, and had it not been for the kindness of Solomon his error of judgement would have ended in death.
