"What is this you have done?" his servants asked. "While the child was alive, you fasted and wept, but when he died, you got up and ate." What is this you have done?This phrase is a direct question posed by David's servants, reflecting their confusion and concern. In Hebrew, the phrase is "מָה הַדָּבָר הַזֶּה אֲשֶׁר עָשִׂיתָ" (mah hadavar hazeh asher asita). The word "מָה" (mah) translates to "what," indicating a quest for understanding. This question echoes the accountability seen throughout Scripture, where actions are often scrutinized in light of divine expectations. It is reminiscent of God's question to Adam in Genesis 3:13, emphasizing the need for introspection and acknowledgment of one's actions. While the child was alive, you fasted and wept but when he died, you got up and ate Persons / Places / Events 1. DavidThe King of Israel, who is mourning the death of his child. His actions and reactions are central to this passage. 2. David's Servants They are puzzled by David's behavior and question him about his change in demeanor after the child's death. 3. The Child The son born to David and Bathsheba, who becomes ill and dies as a consequence of David's sin with Bathsheba. 4. Bathsheba The mother of the child and wife of David, involved in the events leading up to this moment. 5. Nathan the Prophet Although not directly mentioned in this verse, Nathan plays a crucial role in the preceding events by confronting David about his sin. Teaching Points Understanding God's SovereigntyDavid's acceptance of his child's death demonstrates a profound trust in God's sovereignty and justice. We are reminded to trust God's plan, even when it is difficult to understand. Repentance and Forgiveness David's actions before and after the child's death highlight the importance of genuine repentance. True repentance involves a change of heart and acceptance of God's discipline. The Role of Fasting and Prayer David's fasting and prayer show the importance of seeking God earnestly in times of crisis. However, his return to normal life after the child's death teaches us about accepting God's will. Dealing with Grief David's behavior provides a model for dealing with grief. While mourning is natural, there is a time to move forward and continue living in faith. Community and Accountability The role of David's servants in questioning him highlights the importance of community and accountability in our spiritual journey. Bible Study Questions 1. How does David's response to his child's death reflect his understanding of God's character and sovereignty?2. In what ways does David's repentance in Psalm 51 connect to his actions in 2 Samuel 12:21? 3. How can we apply David's example of fasting and prayer in our own times of crisis or decision-making? 4. What lessons can we learn from David about moving forward after experiencing loss or tragedy? 5. How can the role of David's servants in this passage inform our understanding of accountability and community in the church? Connections to Other Scriptures Psalm 51David's psalm of repentance, which reflects his heart and understanding of sin and forgiveness. 2 Samuel 11 The account of David's sin with Bathsheba, providing context for the events in chapter 12. Job 1:20-22 Job's response to loss, which parallels David's acceptance of God's will. Matthew 6:16-18 Jesus' teaching on fasting, which can be related to David's fasting and prayer. Romans 8:28 The assurance that God works all things for good, even in the midst of tragedy.
People Ammonites, Bathsheba, David, Jedidiah, Joab, Milcom, Nathan, Saul, Solomon, Uriah, UrijahPlaces Jerusalem, RabbahTopics Acting, Alive, Ate, Bread, Child, Dead, Died, Eat, Fast, Fasted, Got, Hast, Lad, Meal, Rise, Risen, Rose, Servants, Weep, Weeping, WeptDictionary of Bible Themes 2 Samuel 12:13-23Library David and Nathan'And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the Lord. And Nathan said unto David, The Lord also hath put away thy sin.'--2 SAMUEL xii. 13. We ought to be very thankful that Scripture never conceals the faults of its noblest men. High among the highest of them stands the poet- king. Whoever, for nearly three thousand years, has wished to express the emotions of trust in God, longing after purity, aspiration, and rapture of devotion, has found that his words have been before him. And this man … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Thou Art the Man Letter vi. In My Last Two Letters I have Given the State of the Argument as It... The Blessings of Noah Upon Shem and Japheth. (Gen. Ix. 18-27. ) Cleansing. That the Ruler Should not Set his Heart on Pleasing Men, and yet Should Give Heed to what Ought to Please Them. The Unchangeableness of God How the Poor and the Rich Should be Admonished. Of Antichrist, and his Ruin: and of the Slaying the Witnesses. Thirdly, for Thy Actions. The Preparatory Service; Sometimes Called the Confessional Service. The Right Understanding of the Law The Sixth Commandment The Eighth Commandment Samuel Links 2 Samuel 12:21 NIV2 Samuel 12:21 NLT 2 Samuel 12:21 ESV 2 Samuel 12:21 NASB 2 Samuel 12:21 KJV 2 Samuel 12:21 Commentaries Bible Hub |
    |