1. A divided nation (1-3)

The northern 10 tribes of Israel were very fickle in their allegiance to King David. At first, they argued with the men of Judah, saying "We have ten shares in the king; so we have a greater claim on David than you have." But now, a troublemaker named Sheba sounded a trumpet and shouted "We have no share in David" and all the men of Israel deserted David to follow Sheba. David placed the ten concubines in a house under guard. They were a picture of the 10 northern tribes who were separated from their king who was to be a husband for them.

2. Murderous ambition (4-26)

David could not control the ambitions of Joab. David sent Amasa to gather the men of Judah, but he didn't return in time. Next, he sent Abishai to lead his men, but Abishai relinquished his command to Joab after Joab murdered Amasa. Amasa's body was a difficult sight for David's troops to see. The leader who had been appointed by David was lying on the ground in his own blood while the men were instructed to follow Joab. Joab pursued Sheba and attacked the city of Abel Beth Maakah until a wise woman negotiated for peace in exchange for Sheba's head.