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Lesson 8: David and Bathsheba

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Even men and women who love and serve God can yield to temptations that result in bitter consequences to themselves and others. At about the age of fifty, David’s lust for women and his idleness contributed to his committing adultery with Bathsheba. In doing so, he violated not only her, but also her family, who had loyally served David. Rather than confessing his sin, David executed a murderous cover-up process that led to more sins, holding God and his Word in contempt. For the rest of his life, David bore the scars and consequences of this sin; however, in grace, God forgave him.

Mrs. Kraft warns us that if David, a man after God’s own heart, could succumb to such a sin, so might we. Freedom comes from taking accountability for our actions. In confessing sin to God, we don’t escape consequences, but God forgives and forgets our sin forever. The Word of God counsels us to flee temptation the moment we recognize it.

Study Questions

2 Samuel 11-12

1. Read 2 Samuel 11:1-5. Where should David have been? What should he have done when he saw this beautiful woman? Do you think she had a choice in this situation or not? What was David’s predicament when she sent word she was pregnant? (Lev 20:10; Deut 22:22)

2. Read 2 Samuel 11:6-27. What was his purpose in sending for Uriah? How did Uriah prove to be more devoted to duty than David? What traits does David display in sending Uriah back carrying his own death warrant?

3. What character traits did Joab display in this sordid episode? How many of the Ten Commandments did David break? (Ex 20:13-17) What does verse 27 prepare us for?

4. Read 2 Samuel 12. What did Nathan appeal to when he approached David by telling him a story? What was David’s penalty based on? (Ex 22:1) Why do you think he was so angry?

5. Why did God recount what He had done for David? What was God’s view of David’s sins? What was the extent of his punishment? What do we learn about what’s wrapped up in the package of sin?

6. What was David’s response when confronted with his sin? What does Psalm 51 tell us about him and his relationship with God?

7. What did he do when his son became ill? How can 2 Samuel 12:23 comfort those of us who have lost a young child? How did God demonstrate what his forgiveness is like? (2 Samuel 12:14)

8. What is your response when confronted by a sin? Do you blame someone else for provoking it? Do you accept responsibility and make restitution or apologize if necessary? Do you see it as sin against God? How would that be a deterrent?

Related Topics: Character Study, Curriculum, Women's Articles

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