Nathan the Prophet is a significant figure in the Hebrew Bible, known for his role as a trusted advisor and prophet during the reigns of King David and King Solomon. Nathan's first notable appearance occurs in 2 Samuel 7, where he delivers God's covenant promise to David, assuring him that his dynasty will endure forever: "Your house and kingdom will endure forever before Me, and your throne will be established forever" (2 Samuel 7:16).

Nathan's most memorable act of prophecy is his confrontation with King David following David's sin with Bathsheba. In 2 Samuel 12, Nathan approaches David with a parable about a rich man who unjustly takes a poor man's only lamb. When David reacts with anger, Nathan reveals that David himself is the man in the parable, having taken Bathsheba and arranged the death of her husband, Uriah the Hittite. Nathan declares God's judgment: "Now, therefore, the sword will never depart from your house, because you have despised Me and taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be your own" (2 Samuel 12:10). David's subsequent repentance is a pivotal moment in his life and reign.

Nathan's influence extends into the succession of the throne. In 1 Kings 1, as David's life nears its end, Nathan supports Bathsheba in ensuring that Solomon, her son, is anointed king, thwarting Adonijah's attempt to seize the throne. Nathan's loyalty to God's will and his courage in speaking truth to power underscore his role as a faithful servant of the Lord.

Bathsheba

Bathsheba is a central figure in the narrative of King David's reign, known primarily for her relationship with David and her role as the mother of Solomon. Her account begins in 2 Samuel 11, where she is described as "very beautiful" (2 Samuel 11:2). While her husband, Uriah the Hittite, is away at war, David sees her bathing and summons her to the palace, leading to an adulterous affair. When Bathsheba becomes pregnant, David attempts to cover up the sin by recalling Uriah from the battlefield. When Uriah refuses to go home to his wife, David arranges for his death in battle.

After Uriah's death, Bathsheba becomes David's wife and bears him a son, but the child dies as a consequence of David's sin, as foretold by Nathan the Prophet. Bathsheba later gives birth to Solomon, who is beloved by the Lord: "Then David comforted his wife Bathsheba, and he went to her and made love to her. She gave birth to a son and named him Solomon. The LORD loved him" (2 Samuel 12:24).

Bathsheba's influence is evident in the succession narrative of 1 Kings 1. As David's health declines, Bathsheba, with Nathan's support, ensures that Solomon is anointed king, securing the Davidic line as promised by God. Bathsheba's role as queen mother is significant, and she is mentioned in the royal court of Solomon, indicating her continued influence and status.

Bathsheba's account is one of complexity, marked by personal tragedy and redemption. Her life reflects themes of sin, repentance, and divine grace, and she is remembered as an integral part of the Davidic lineage leading to the Messiah.