Sunday School Lesson: Samuel Confronting King David Over His Sin with Bathsheba

Lesson Overview Scripture Reference: 2 Samuel 12:1-14

Main Theme: God’s justice and mercy; the consequences of sin; repentance and restoration.

1. Introduction to the Story Context: David's sin with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11).

David commits adultery with Bathsheba.

He arranges the death of her husband, Uriah.

Bathsheba becomes pregnant.

Setting the Scene: God sends the prophet Nathan to confront David.

2. Nathan’s Approach Nathan Tells a Parable (2 Samuel 12:1-7):

A rich man with many sheep takes the only lamb of a poor man.

David’s anger at the injustice leads to his own conviction.

Nathan declares, "You are the man!"

Lesson Takeaway: Sin often blinds us to our own faults. God uses His Word to bring us to awareness.

3. Confrontation and Accountability Nathan’s Reproof (2 Samuel 12:7-9):

God reminds David of His blessings: delivered from Saul, made king, and given Saul’s house.

David’s sin was not just against Bathsheba and Uriah, but against God.

The severity of David’s sin: He violated God's law and led others into sin.

Lesson Takeaway: Sin is never just a personal matter; it affects our relationship with God and others.

4. Consequences of David’s Sin Personal and National Consequences (2 Samuel 12:10-14):

David’s household will experience conflict (David’s children will turn against him):

• 3rd son Absalom will lead a revolt against an old King David (killed by Joab, see 1 Chronicles 3:1-2)

• 4th son Adonijah (2 Samuel 3:4) attempted to usurp the throne during the life of David (1 Kings 1:11ff). Solomon had him executed after being warned to remember his place in the line of succession per King David’s instruction regarding the crown. (1 Kings 1:32–35)

The child born to Bathsheba will die.

David's actions have a lasting impact on the nation.

Lesson Takeaway: Sin has consequences, and sometimes those consequences extend beyond the individual.

5. David’s Repentance David’s Confession (2 Samuel 12:13):

David acknowledges his sin: “I have sinned against the Lord.”

Nathan assures David that God has forgiven him.

Lesson Takeaway: True repentance involves acknowledging our sin, taking responsibility, and turning back to God.

6. God’s Mercy and Forgiveness God’s Response (2 Samuel 12:13-14):

David will not die because of his sin, but the child will.

God forgives David, but the consequences remain.

Lesson Takeaway: God’s mercy is greater than our sin, but there are still natural consequences for our actions.

7. Application for Our Lives Reflect on Our Own Sin:

What areas in our lives are we hiding from God? Are we ready to face our mistakes and repent?

The Power of Repentance:

God is always ready to forgive, but true repentance means changing our ways and seeking His help.

The Call to Accountability:

Do we have people in our lives who can lovingly call us out when we are wrong? Are we willing to listen?

8. Key Takeaways Sin’s Consequences Are Real: No matter how small or hidden, sin has far-reaching effects.

God Confronts Us Out of Love: Like Nathan, God will speak truth to us, even when it’s hard to hear.

Repentance Leads to Restoration: When we confess our sins, God is faithful to forgive and restore us.

God’s Mercy and Justice: While God is just, He is also merciful, offering forgiveness even when we deserve punishment.

9. Closing Prayer Pray for the strength to recognize and repent of sin in our lives, and for the grace to walk in God’s forgiveness.