A Tale of Three Kings

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This book is about the life of three kings whose story is told in such a way that leaves its reader constantly asking which king he best resembles. King Saul is a mad leader who attempts murder in order to keep his kingdom, while King Absalom is a young man who will deceive, and dishonor his father and king in order to rule the kingdom of his desire. King David, who is placed between both King Saul and his son Absalom, is a godly example of a man who must endure trials, suffering, and utter brokenness before God, in order to be a leader fit for God’s use and glory.

The author is trying to show that there have been many people who have been hurt by Christian leaders who are of the order of King Saul – those who throw spears at anyone who gets in their way – rather than taking the godly road less traveled, which is the road of brokenness. The author contrasts these leaders with the life of King David in order to make a point that God is the one who is in control of who leads His people.

By applying the characteristics seen in King David’s life, a person can keep themselves out of the spear-throwing order of King Saul, and graduate from “God’s sacred school of submission and brokenness.” Those who have authority in God’s kingdom do not need to throw spears at those under them in order to be authoritative.

Edwards study in brokenness is a very easy read, and yet at the same time he teaches us profound and timely lessons, by reminding us what it is to be a man after God’s own heart. Edwards accurately states that there are few who would take the road of brokenness and humility when they have the power in themselves to throw a spear in order to avoid that lonely road. In using the life of David to point out that in God’s university a student must pretend that he cannot see spears, even when they are coming right at him, I am reminded of the Lord Jesus’ exhortation to “Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you” (Mt. 5:44). 

This book is a must read for anyone who seeks to lead God’s people.

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