Matthew Poole and continuators on 2 Samuel 17:11

11 Therefore I counsel, that all Israel be generally gathered unto thee , from Dan even to Beersheba, as the sand that is by the sea for multitude, and that thou go to battel in thine own person .

His pretence was, that they might have a far greater Army, and make sure, though slow work: his design was to gain David more time, that he might increase his Army, and make better provisions for the Battel; and that the present heat of the people might be cooled, and they might at last bethink themselves of their duty to David, and return to their former Allegiance.

For thy presence will put more Life and Courage into all thy Soldiers, who will be ambitious to shew their utmost Skill and Courage in defending thy Person and Cause, when they know that all their Actions are observed by him who hath the distribution of rewards and punishments in his hands. So mayest thou also give counsel as occasion offers, and encourage thy men to kill David, which otherwise they may possibly be afraid to do. Besides, the glory of the Victory will be wholly thine, which now Ahitophel seeks to get to himself.

Marginal references: Heb. that thy face, or, presence go, &c.