2 Samuel 11:2–5, 14–15; 12:7a, 10–14; Psalm 51:1–4

Bible Studies for Life
Associate Professor, Department of Religion, Samford University

Deal with Personal Sin
2 Samuel 11:2–5, 14–15; 12:7a, 10–14; Psalm 51:1–4
Chapter 11 of 2 Samuel represents a most significant transition in the Davidic narrative, shifting from public triumph (2 Sam. 5–10) to personal tragedy (2 Sam. 12–20). The intrusion of serious sin into David’s life cuts sharply into his remaining story. Some liken its ominous introduction to the original sin of Adam and Eve.

Recognize That Temptation Leads to Sin (2 Sam. 11:2–5, 14–15)
David was walking on the flat roof, which was the preferred part of a house on warm evenings, particularly if a breeze were blowing. David’s abode was probably on the highest ground of the old Jebusite fortress, and the rooftop must have offered a commanding view of the city. The woman in question was the daughter of one of David’s best fighters, the granddaughter of his most trusted counselor and the wife of one of his most esteemed soldiers. These connections highlight the tragic and destructive enmeshment that adultery can render to so many. The action was quick, which highlights the lack of thought on David’s part. He sent; he took; he lay (4). The woman returned and she conceived. There was no conversation, no consideration of consequences. Furthermore there was no hint of caring, of affection, of love — there was only lust. David did not call her by name, nor did he speak to her. The most telling verb is “he took her.” The prophet Samuel warned that kings are takers (1 Sam. 8:11–19). David had been given so much and had appeared to manage his gifts effectively. Now he was reflecting the greed of kings whom Samuel had derided.  

Realize That Sin Must Be Confronted (2 Sam. 12:7a, 10–12)
When David condemned the sin of the rich man in Nathan’s parable, he also condemned himself. Even though likely surrounded by “yes-men,” Nathan uttered the direct indictment upon the king: “You are the man.” Uriah died because of David’s sin, and now God declared that death would enter David’s life as well. A “sword” was ordained over David’s descendants for all time to come. It was by the sword of the Ammonites (9) that David murdered one of his best soldiers. Now David and his family would suffer the carnage of a sword of his own making. The fatal violence in David’s family is highlighted in Chapters 13–19 (as well as 1 Kings 1–2). Four of David’s sons would face premature death: Amnon, Absalom, Adonijah and an unnamed son. David’s beautiful daughter Tamar would be raped by her half brother, and his concubines would be humiliated publicly by Absalom when he captured the kingdom. That Yahweh Himself took personally David’s sin is clear: “You despised me and took the wife of Uriah the Hittite.” David had exhibited disregard for Uriah, but even worse, he showed disregard for Yahweh and His law. This fact serves as a strong reminder to us that indeed God takes it personally when we miss the mark and dishonor Him. 

Rejoice That Sin Can Be Forgiven
(2 Sam. 12:13–14; Ps. 51:1–4)
David’s contrite response was to the point: “I have sinned.” In the Hebrew, the confession consists of only two words, meaning “I have sinned against Yahweh.” David’s words correspond in terseness and directness to Nathan’s words in verse 7: “You are the man.” Again, in this case, the Hebrew indictment consists of only two words. One might conclude that David had no option: He was caught red-handed and had to confess. But in fact, he did not have to confess. A lesser king would not have confessed; indeed he probably would have had Nathan killed. David’s words in Psalm 51 reflect personal ownership of his transgression. Yes, he had sinned against Uriah and Bathsheba. Much worse he had “despised” Yahweh and His law. David’s words in verse 4 of the Psalm confirm his correct assessment of the most devastating aspect of his wrongdoing: “Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight.” David went on to acknowledge that God’s verdict upon him was right and that He is “justified when [He judges].” The gospel for David is that while God’s ruling is divinely just, it is not too late for him to receive grace and mercy.