2 Samuel 11:27

And when the time of mourning was over, David had her brought to his house, and she became his wife and bore him a son. But the thing that David had done was evil in the sight of the LORD.

Study Bible

When the time of mourning was over
This phrase indicates a period of mourning, which was customary in ancient Israel following the death of a spouse. The Hebrew word for mourning, "אֵבֶל" (evel), signifies a deep, ritualistic grieving process. This period was respected and observed, reflecting the cultural and religious practices of the time. It underscores the gravity of the situation and the respect for life and death in Israelite society.

David had her brought to his house
The action of David bringing Bathsheba to his house signifies a transition from mourning to a new phase of life. The Hebrew verb "לָקַח" (laqach), meaning "to take" or "to bring," implies authority and decision. David's actions here are deliberate and authoritative, reflecting his kingly power but also his personal involvement in the situation. This act is pivotal, as it sets the stage for the unfolding consequences of David's earlier actions.

and she became his wife
This phrase marks the formalization of the relationship between David and Bathsheba. The Hebrew word for wife, "אִשָּׁה" (ishah), denotes a legal and social status change. In the context of ancient Israel, marriage was a covenantal relationship, and this union, though legitimate in the eyes of society, was marred by the circumstances leading to it. It highlights the complexity of human relationships and the intertwining of personal desires with societal norms.

and bore him a son
The birth of a son is a significant event, as sons were often seen as a continuation of one's legacy and lineage. The Hebrew verb "יָלַד" (yalad), meaning "to bear" or "to bring forth," emphasizes the fulfillment of a natural and expected outcome of marriage. However, this birth is overshadowed by the moral and ethical implications of the preceding events, reminding readers of the consequences of sin and the complexities of divine justice and mercy.

But the thing David had done displeased the LORD
This phrase is the crux of the verse, highlighting the divine perspective on David's actions. The Hebrew word "רַע" (ra), translated as "displeased," conveys a sense of evil or wrongdoing. The LORD's displeasure is a critical theological point, emphasizing that human actions, regardless of their social or political acceptability, are ultimately subject to divine judgment. This serves as a sobering reminder of the holiness of God and the moral accountability of His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel, who committed adultery with Bathsheba and orchestrated the death of her husband, Uriah.

2. Bathsheba
The woman with whom David committed adultery; she became pregnant and later married David.

3. Uriah the Hittite
Bathsheba's husband, a loyal soldier in David's army, whom David had killed to cover up his sin.

4. The LORD
The God of Israel, who was displeased with David's actions.

5. Jerusalem
The city where these events took place, serving as the capital of Israel and the location of David's palace.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
Sin, even when hidden from others, is never hidden from God. David's actions displeased the LORD, showing that God sees and judges the heart.

The Importance of Repentance
David's later repentance (as seen in Psalm 51) is a model for us. True repentance involves acknowledging our sin, seeking God's forgiveness, and turning away from wrongdoing.

The Deceptive Nature of Sin
Sin often begins with a seemingly small temptation but can lead to devastating consequences. We must be vigilant and guard our hearts against temptation.

God's Displeasure with Sin
God's displeasure with David's actions reminds us that our actions have spiritual implications. We must strive to live in a way that pleases God.

The Role of Accountability
David's account underscores the need for accountability. Having others who can speak truth into our lives can help prevent us from falling into sin.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's sin with Bathsheba illustrate the progression of temptation to sin, and what steps can we take to interrupt this progression in our own lives?

2. In what ways does David's account in 2 Samuel 11:27 challenge us to consider the hidden sins in our own lives and their impact on our relationship with God?

3. How can Psalm 51 serve as a guide for genuine repentance in our lives today?

4. What role does accountability play in preventing sin, and how can we cultivate relationships that encourage spiritual growth and accountability?

5. How does understanding God's displeasure with sin motivate us to pursue holiness and align our actions with His will?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 51
David's psalm of repentance, traditionally understood to be written after Nathan confronted him about his sin with Bathsheba.

Exodus 20:14
The commandment against adultery, which David violated.

1 Samuel 13:14
Describes David as a man after God's own heart, highlighting the contrast between his usual character and his actions in this chapter.

James 1:14-15
Discusses how desire leads to sin, and sin, when full-grown, leads to death, paralleling David's progression from temptation to sin.