2 Samuel 11:20

if the king's anger flares, he may ask you, 'Why did you get so close to the city to fight? Did you not realize they would shoot from atop the wall?

Study Bible

if the king’s anger flares
This phrase anticipates King David's potential reaction to the news of the battle's outcome. David, as a king, was responsible for military decisions and the welfare of his troops. His anger would be justified if he perceived a tactical error. This reflects the responsibility and accountability of leadership, a theme seen throughout the Bible, such as in the leadership of Moses (Exodus 32:19) and the kings of Israel.

he may ask you
The use of "he may ask you" indicates a direct communication between the king and his messenger, highlighting the importance of delivering messages accurately. This reflects the role of prophets and messengers in the Bible, who were tasked with conveying God's word to the people, such as Nathan confronting David later in 2 Samuel 12.

‘Why did you get so close to the city to fight?
This question points to a tactical error in the battle strategy. In ancient warfare, approaching a fortified city too closely without proper siege equipment was dangerous. The historical context of warfare during this period often involved sieges, as seen in the conquest of Jericho (Joshua 6). The question implies a lack of wisdom or foresight, which is a recurring theme in the Bible, contrasting human error with divine wisdom (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Did you not realize they would shoot from atop the wall?
This phrase underscores the common military practice of defending a city from its walls. Archers and soldiers would use the height advantage to repel attackers. The mention of shooting from the wall connects to other biblical accounts of city defenses, such as the defense of Jerusalem (2 Kings 25:4). It also serves as a reminder of the consequences of ignoring known dangers, paralleling spiritual vigilance in the New Testament (1 Peter 5:8).

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel, who orchestrates the battle plan and later becomes entangled in sin with Bathsheba.

2. Joab
The commander of David's army, who is responsible for executing David's orders in the battle.

3. Uriah the Hittite
A loyal soldier in David's army and the husband of Bathsheba, whose death is orchestrated by David.

4. Jerusalem
The city from which David rules and where he remains while his army is at war.

5. The Battle
The military engagement against the Ammonites, during which Uriah is placed in a vulnerable position.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
David's actions demonstrate how sin can lead to a cascade of further sins and consequences. We must be vigilant in guarding our hearts and actions.

The Importance of Accountability
David's lack of accountability led to grave sins. Christians should seek accountability partners to help maintain integrity.

God's Justice and Mercy
Despite David's sin, God remains just and merciful. This account reminds us of the need for repentance and the hope of forgiveness.

The Dangers of Complacency
David's decision to stay in Jerusalem while his army fought shows the danger of complacency. We must remain active in our spiritual battles.

The Role of Leadership
As a leader, David's actions had significant repercussions. This highlights the responsibility leaders have to act righteously.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's decision to stay in Jerusalem contribute to the events that unfold in 2 Samuel 11? What can this teach us about the dangers of complacency in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the account of David, Bathsheba, and Uriah illustrate the ripple effect of sin? How can we apply this understanding to avoid similar pitfalls?

3. How does Nathan's confrontation with David in 2 Samuel 12 serve as a model for accountability? What steps can we take to ensure we have accountability in our spiritual walk?

4. Reflect on Psalm 51 in light of 2 Samuel 11. How does David's repentance inform our understanding of God's mercy and forgiveness?

5. Considering Jesus' teachings in Matthew 5:27-28, how can we guard our hearts against the sins of lust and adultery in today's world? What practical steps can we take to maintain purity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 12
Nathan's confrontation with David about his sin with Bathsheba and Uriah, highlighting the consequences of David's actions.

Psalm 51
David's psalm of repentance, which provides insight into his heart after being confronted by Nathan.

Exodus 20:13-14
The commandments against murder and adultery, which David violates in this account.

Matthew 5:27-28
Jesus' teaching on adultery, expanding the understanding of sin to include even lustful thoughts.