Overview
2 Samuel 11 is one of the most dramatic and morally significant chapters in David's story, detailing his affair with Bathsheba and the subsequent cover-up that leads to Uriah’s death. This chapter reveals the complexity of David's character and the grave consequences of his actions. Key aspects include:
David and Bathsheba: While his army is at war, David remains in Jerusalem. From his palace, he sees Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah the Hittite, bathing. David sends for her and sleeps with her, and she becomes pregnant.
Uriah Brought Back from War: In an attempt to conceal the affair, David summons Uriah from the battlefield, hoping he will sleep with Bathsheba and believe the child to be his.
Uriah’s Refusal to Go Home: Uriah, out of solidarity with his fellow soldiers who are in battle, refuses to go home and sleep with his wife. He stays at the palace entrance with the king’s servants.
David’s Plot to Ensure Uriah’s Death: David, seeing his plan fail, writes a letter to Joab, the army commander, instructing him to place Uriah in the heat of battle and then withdraw from him, ensuring his death. David sends this letter by Uriah himself.
Uriah’s Death in Battle: Joab follows David’s orders, and Uriah is killed in battle. Joab sends a messenger to inform David of the battle’s outcome, including Uriah’s death.
David’s Response to Uriah’s Death: Upon receiving the news of Uriah’s death, David dismisses the incident, saying that the sword devours one as well as another. He then takes Bathsheba as his wife, and she bears him a son.
2 Samuel 11 portrays a stark contrast to David’s earlier life as a man after God’s own heart. His misuse of power, indulgence in personal desires, and subsequent actions to cover up his sin mark a significant moral failure. This chapter sets the stage for the future troubles in David’s reign and family, serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power and the far-reaching consequences of personal sin.