David's census, as recorded in the Old Testament, is a significant event that highlights themes of divine sovereignty, human pride, and repentance. The narrative is found in two primary passages: 2 Samuel 24 and 1 Chronicles 21. These accounts provide insight into the spiritual and moral lessons derived from David's actions and the subsequent consequences.

Background and Motivation

The event begins with King David deciding to conduct a census of Israel and Judah. The motivation behind this decision is not explicitly stated in the text, but it is implied that David's actions were driven by pride and a desire to measure the strength of his military forces. This act of counting the people was seen as a reliance on human strength rather than trusting in God's providence and protection.

In 2 Samuel 24:1, it is written, "Again the anger of the LORD burned against Israel, and He incited David against them, saying, 'Go, take a census of Israel and Judah.'" This verse suggests that the census was part of God's sovereign plan, allowing David's pride to be tested. In contrast, 1 Chronicles 21:1 attributes the incitement to Satan: "Then Satan rose up against Israel and incited David to take a census of Israel." These differing perspectives highlight the complexity of divine providence and human agency.

Joab's Resistance and the Census

Joab, the commander of David's army, resisted the king's order, recognizing the potential spiritual danger. In 1 Chronicles 21:3, Joab questions, "May the LORD multiply His troops a hundredfold. My lord the king, are they not all my lord’s servants? Why does my lord want to do this? Why should he bring guilt on Israel?" Despite Joab's objections, David insisted, and the census was conducted, numbering 1.3 million men capable of military service.

Divine Judgment and the Plague

David's decision displeased God, and he was confronted with the consequences of his actions. In 2 Samuel 24:10, David's conscience was stricken: "After David had numbered the troops, his conscience was stricken, and he said to the LORD, 'I have sinned greatly in what I have done. Now, O LORD, please take away the iniquity of Your servant, for I have acted very foolishly.'"

God sent the prophet Gad to offer David a choice of three punishments: three years of famine, three months of fleeing from enemies, or three days of plague. David chose to fall into the hands of the LORD, trusting in His mercy. Consequently, a plague struck Israel, resulting in the death of 70,000 men.

David's Repentance and the Altar

As the angel of the LORD prepared to destroy Jerusalem, God relented and commanded the angel to stop. David, seeing the angel, confessed his sin and interceded for the people, saying in 2 Samuel 24:17, "I am the one who has sinned and done wrong. But these sheep, what have they done? Please let Your hand fall upon me and my father’s house."

Following God's instruction through Gad, David built an altar on the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite. He purchased the site, offered burnt offerings and peace offerings, and called upon the LORD. God answered by sending fire from heaven to consume the offerings, and the plague was halted.

Theological Implications

David's census and the resulting plague underscore the importance of humility, reliance on God, and the serious consequences of sin. The narrative illustrates God's justice and mercy, as well as the power of repentance and intercession. David's willingness to accept responsibility and seek God's forgiveness serves as a model of genuine contrition and faith.