A Tale of Three Kings

A fun fictional story/narrative representation that gives a perspective of a Biblical theme. It is specifically about Saul, David, and Absalom who are three kings in early Isreal. The story line investigates the themes of brokenness (especially), but also leadership, authority, and humility. It helps to have a framework understanding of the Davidic Monarchy and the basic character sketches of the kings prior to reading; but regardless is enjoyable insightful and readable. I have read it a couple times because I think that the author captures and embodies in his work some excellent characteristics of life and living.

This book was life changing because it uses the live's of David, Saul, and Absolom to depict heart attitudes and levels of submission to God. It is very challenging but very good. It's a book to keep and re-read over and over.

This book is must reading for every church leader. It is a study of the use and misuse of authority. In it, Edwards examines the lives of King Saul who demanded allegiance and held onto power at all cost; the life of King David who would not pursue power or hold onto it by force even when faced with rebellion; and David?s son, Absalom, the man who would become king by leading a rebellion. The book was written especially to address the problem of submission and authority in the modern church. An underlying theme of this magnificent tale is that one cannot know for certain who are anointed by God and who are not; whom God has blessed and whom He as not. True leaders often make mistakes and pretenders to the crown can often look Godly; therefore, we should be very careful about passing judgment on our leaders.These three simple stories convey more meaning and impact than a scholarly tome on authority. Edwards follows the example set by Jesus by telling simple stories to convey deep theological truths. His insight that leadership, even Godly leadership, is inherently flawed because God works through flawed people is excellent. Also worthy of note is the insight not to rush to judgment when condemning authority. The message needs to be heard in our impatient culture. Edwards notes that men who thought they were doing the will of God murdered both Jesus and Stephen. There are two significant weaknesses in this book.. First, the story is incomplete. It ends with David retreating from Jerusalem with Absalom holding power. Edwards fails to tell us that the story really ends with David doing battle with the rebels and Absaloms subsequent death. David did fight for his throne. Second, we live in an age where everyone believes they have the inherent right to question authority. Edwards does not address the need to teach on authority and submission as contrasted with demanding it. Boomers and Xers often have no idea of submission. Even many who were born before World War II do not understand the biblical concept of authority; like Korah who rebelled against Moses, they hold to a democratic model of authority. If we do not each our people the biblical concepts of authority and submission, how will they learn?This book is a sobering reminder that all church polity is ultimately congregational. Leaders cannot demand the allegiance of their people. If my people choose not to follow my leadership by withdrawing their attendance, offerings and service, I will fail as a leader. I was especially helped by Edwards observation that all kings have their critics. Leaders are flawed vessels of God?s anointing. Rebels may promise the world, but they can only deliver it with the cooperation of the people. If the people grow tired, wither the rebels dream may fail, or a dictatorship must be established. Again, this book is must reading for all church leaders. As a political science major, B.S. University of Oregon, 1973, I found this book intriguing.

Do you work or live with a tyrant? Got a spoiled brat in your life? David did. Had both. He served a crazy king who tried to kill him and had a vain, self-absorbed son who tried to usurp him. Both nearly succeeded. How David coped with these insane situations with God's love, grace, and wisdom have changed my life. The patience, respect for God, surrender, and trust in the Lord spoke powerfully to me through the years of history between us. David's unique reactions revealed Jesus Christ to me in a new way.David's struggles dwarfed mine but the lessons of his life challenged me to become a better Christian - a man of honor - a man of God.Gene Edwards has a gift for cutting through difficult topics on a unique slant. He brings a new level of understanding to old problems, stories, and issues. There were times when reading this book that I had to stop, lay it down, and catch my breath as new revelation washed over me. A strong recommendation for the thoughtful believer who is willing to go to the next level of faith.

I first read this book in one night at work 10 years ago, and it continues to affect my outlook and spiritual life today. This book has affected my life more than any other I've ever read (except the Bible, of course!) Gene Edwards takes emotionally- laden issues like submission to authority and pride, and presents them in a way that forces you to look at not the situation, but your response to it. Mr Edwards offers us a unique way to measure our motivations and responses to challenges we face against a godly framework. You will want to order several more to give away after you read this. God bless!