THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
When a council was convened to discuss the conflict and differing views arose regarding whether to advance immediately or to postpone, the clever Ahithophel proposed his counsel with this suggestion: Let us launch an attack on your father, who is weary and distressed; if we allow him a moment's respite, we shall surely overpower him. If we strike now, when he is caught off guard, victory will be ours without difficulty.
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When the war council finally gathered and varied opinions were expressed on whether to proceed at once or delay, the formidable Ahithophel stepped forward as an advisor to present his thoughts. He recommended that we should act while your father is still disoriented and fearful, asserting that without granting him even the slightest pause, we would be able to vanquish him; if we strike now, while he is vulnerable, it will prove an easy task.
There is nothing that contradicts the essence of a Christian heart like pride. By pride, I refer not to bravery or valor, as those qualities are intrinsic to the faithful. These virtues differ greatly: true humility stands apart from arrogance, deceit, and subservience. If you desire, I can provide examples to illustrate this. It is evident that opposites can coexist, much like weeds amid wheat or thorns among roses. Children are often easily misled, whereas those experienced in spiritual matters can discern the genuine from the false. Let us draw from Scripture for clarity. What do we mean by flattery, servility, and deceit? Siba insincerely praised David while speaking ill of his master, and Ahithophel flattered Absalom (see 2 Samuel 16:15-23). David, by contrast, exemplified humility.