2 Samuel 12:18

On the seventh day the child died. But David's servants were afraid to tell him that the child was dead, for they said, "Look, while the child was alive, we spoke to him, and he would not listen to us. So how can we tell him the child is dead? He may even harm himself."

Study Bible

On the seventh day
The phrase "on the seventh day" is significant in biblical numerology, where the number seven often symbolizes completion or divine perfection. In the context of this verse, the seventh day marks the completion of the child's life, as ordained by God. This period also reflects the fullness of God's judgment as pronounced by Nathan the prophet. Historically, the seventh day is also the day of rest in Jewish tradition, the Sabbath, which adds a layer of irony and solemnity to the event, as it was a day meant for peace and rest, yet it brought sorrow to David.

the child died
The death of the child is a direct consequence of David's sin with Bathsheba, as foretold by Nathan in 2 Samuel 12:14. The Hebrew word for "died" here is "muwth," which signifies not just physical death but also a spiritual and moral consequence. This tragic event underscores the seriousness of sin and its repercussions, even for a man after God's own heart like David. It serves as a sobering reminder of the wages of sin and the holiness of God, who cannot overlook iniquity.

But David’s servants were afraid to tell him
The servants' fear highlights the gravity of the situation and their understanding of David's deep emotional state. The Hebrew root for "afraid" is "yare," which conveys a sense of dread or reverence. This fear is not just for David's reaction but also for the potential consequences of delivering such devastating news. It reflects the cultural and historical context of ancient Near Eastern monarchies, where the king's emotional and mental state could significantly impact those around him.

for they said, 'Look, while the child was alive, we spoke to him, and he would not listen to us
This phrase reveals David's intense mourning and fasting for the child while he was still alive, as described earlier in the chapter. The servants' observation that David "would not listen" indicates his deep state of grief and his hope for divine intervention. The Hebrew word for "listen" is "shama," which implies not just hearing but also understanding and responding. David's refusal to "listen" shows his focus on seeking God's mercy, illustrating his faith and desperation.

So how can we tell him the child is dead?
The servants' question reflects their concern for David's well-being and their uncertainty about how he will handle the finality of the child's death. This rhetorical question underscores the tension and fear of the unknown, as they anticipate a potentially volatile reaction from David. It also highlights the human struggle with delivering and receiving bad news, a timeless challenge that resonates with readers across generations.

He may even harm himself
The concern that David might harm himself reveals the depth of his emotional turmoil and the servants' awareness of his fragile state. The Hebrew root for "harm" is "ra'a," which can mean to do evil or to break. This concern is not unfounded, as David's intense grief could lead to self-destructive behavior. It serves as a poignant reminder of the human vulnerability to despair and the need for community and support during times of profound loss. This phrase also foreshadows David's eventual acceptance and worship after the child's death, demonstrating his resilience and faith in God's sovereignty.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel who committed adultery with Bathsheba and orchestrated the death of her husband, Uriah. He is confronted by the prophet Nathan and faces the consequences of his sin.

2. Bathsheba
The wife of Uriah, who becomes pregnant by David. Her child with David becomes ill and eventually dies as a result of David's sin.

3. Nathan
The prophet who confronts David about his sin with Bathsheba, delivering God's message of judgment and mercy.

4. The Child
The son born to David and Bathsheba, who becomes ill and dies as a consequence of David's sin.

5. Servants of David
They are concerned about David's reaction to the child's death, fearing his response due to his intense mourning while the child was ill.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
Sin has real and painful consequences, not only for the sinner but also for those around them. David's sin led to the death of his child, illustrating the seriousness of disobedience to God.

The Role of Repentance
True repentance involves acknowledging one's sin and turning away from it. David's response to Nathan's confrontation shows a heart willing to repent, as seen in Psalm 51.

God's Mercy and Justice
While God is just and there are consequences for sin, He is also merciful. David's life is spared, and he continues to be used by God despite his failures.

The Importance of Accountability
Nathan's role in confronting David highlights the importance of having godly accountability in our lives to help us stay on the right path.

Trusting God's Sovereignty
Even in the face of tragedy and loss, we are called to trust in God's sovereign plan, as David did when he worshiped after his child's death.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's response to the death of his child demonstrate his understanding of God's character and sovereignty?

2. In what ways can we see the themes of justice and mercy in God's dealings with David in this passage?

3. How can we apply the principle of accountability in our own lives, as seen in Nathan's confrontation with David?

4. What steps can we take to ensure our repentance is genuine and leads to a change in behavior, as demonstrated by David?

5. How can the account of David and the consequences of his sin help us understand the importance of obedience and the impact of our actions on others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 51
David's psalm of repentance, which reflects his heart after being confronted by Nathan. It shows his acknowledgment of sin and plea for God's mercy.

1 John 1:9
This verse speaks to the promise of forgiveness and cleansing from sin when we confess, highlighting God's faithfulness and justice.

Romans 6:23
This verse discusses the wages of sin being death, which is exemplified in the consequence David faces with the death of his child.

Hebrews 12:6
This verse speaks of God's discipline as an act of love, which can be seen in how God deals with David's sin.