You Can’t Please the King by Breaking His Law
Introduction: The Mistake of Twisting God’s Will
Men often believe they can serve God on their own terms. They think zeal alone is enough, that good intentions can justify sinful actions. But Scripture is clear: you cannot please the King by breaking His law.
The story of Baanah and Rechab in 2 Samuel 4 is a warning to us all. These two men believed they were doing David a favor by assassinating his rival, Ish-bosheth. They thought they were acting in line with God’s will, securing David’s throne. Instead, they found themselves on the receiving end of the King’s wrath.
David understood something they did not—God’s kingdom is not advanced through treachery, murder, or mere pragmatism. God’s law matters, and He is not pleased by those who claim to serve Him while disobeying Him.
The Miscalculation of Baanah and Rechab
Baanah and Rechab were opportunists. They saw Ish-bosheth’s weak rule crumbling and decided to take matters into their own hands. They murdered a sleeping man, beheaded him, and carried his head to David, expecting praise and reward.
But instead of welcoming them as heroes, David condemned them as murderers. He saw through their self-interest. Their actions were not driven by faithfulness to God but by ambition. They wanted power, influence, and a place in David’s kingdom—but they tried to gain it through bloodshed.
David’s response was swift and clear: “When one told me, ‘Behold, Saul is dead,’ thinking he was bringing good news, I seized him and killed him… How much more, when wicked men have killed a righteous man in his own house on his bed, shall I not require his blood from your hand?” (2 Samuel 4:10-11).
David ordered their execution. Justice was served.
What This Means for Us
Baanah and Rechab serve as examples of a dangerous mindset—the belief that we can serve God by ignoring His commands. Their story warns us against:
Justifying Sin for a “Greater Good”
Some men think they can serve God by compromising in small ways—bending the truth, cutting ethical corners, manipulating situations for what they believe is a righteous cause. But God is never honored by disobedience.
Believing Zeal Alone Pleases God
Baanah and Rechab were eager to see David’s throne established. But zeal without obedience is reckless and destructive. Jesus said, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15).
Taking Matters into Your Own Hands
David waited on the Lord. He did not grasp for power through underhanded means. He trusted God’s timing. Likewise, we must trust that obedience, not manipulation, is the path to success in God’s kingdom.
How Do We Truly Please the King?
If God is not pleased by pragmatism, ambition, or zeal without obedience, then what does please Him? The Westminster Confession of Faith lays out four essential criteria for a work to be truly good in God’s sight:
Faith in Christ – Hebrews 11:6 states, “Without faith, it is impossible to please Him.” Good works flow from a heart that trusts in Christ, not from a desire to earn favor or manipulate outcomes.
God’s Glory as the Goal – 1 Corinthians 10:31 tells us, “Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” If we are serving for our own gain, recognition, or legacy, we are missing the mark.
True Love for God and Neighbor – 1 Corinthians 13 warns that even the most sacrificial acts are meaningless without love. Baanah and Rechab had no love for Ish-bosheth or David; they loved themselves and their own ambitions.
Obedience to God’s Law – 1 Samuel 15:22 reminds us, “To obey is better than sacrifice.” We do not define what is good—God does. If an action contradicts His law, no amount of good intention can make it right.
A Final Charge
Men, God is not looking for schemers, manipulators, or opportunists. He is looking for faithful warriors—men who will stand firm, obey Him, and trust in His sovereignty. If you want to please the King, then serve Him as He commands: with faith, love, obedience, and a heart set on His glory.
The world may tell you that results are all that matter. That cutting corners or bending the rules is just the way things are done. But remember the lesson of Baanah and Rechab. The King does not smile on those who serve Him through unrighteousness.