A common misinterpretation views Abner's words as endorsing treacherous political opportunism or betrayal without context, ignoring that his actions align with the broader narrative of God's anointed kingship for David and the elders' longstanding recognition of David's leadership potential during Saul's reign, rather than portraying it as self-serving manipulation detached from divine purpose.
II Samuel 3:17
King James Version (1769)
17 And Abner had communication with the elders of Israel, saying, Ye sought for David in times past to be king over you:
In this verse, Abner strategically reminds the elders of Israel of their previous desire to make David their king, leveraging past sentiments to rally support for transferring allegiance from Ishbosheth to David, illustrating a pivotal moment in the consolidation of David's rule over all Israel as part of God's sovereign plan to fulfill His promise to David despite ongoing civil strife.