2 Samuel 11:6

At this, David sent orders to Joab: "Send me Uriah the Hittite." So Joab sent him to David.

Study Bible

At this, David sent orders to Joab:
David, the king of Israel, is acting from his palace in Jerusalem. This phrase indicates a direct command from the king, highlighting his authority. Joab, the commander of David's army, is stationed at the battlefield besieging Rabbah, the Ammonite capital. The context here is David's attempt to cover up his sin with Bathsheba, Uriah's wife. This action marks the beginning of a series of decisions that lead to further sin and consequences for David. The phrase underscores the misuse of power and authority, a theme that resonates throughout the biblical narrative.

“Send me Uriah the Hittite.”
Uriah is identified as a Hittite, indicating his foreign origin, yet he is a loyal soldier in David's army. The Hittites were an ancient people who lived in the region of Anatolia, and Uriah's presence in Israel's army reflects the diverse composition of David's forces. This request is part of David's plan to conceal his adultery with Bathsheba by bringing Uriah back from the battlefield, hoping he will sleep with his wife and thus cover the pregnancy. The mention of Uriah by name highlights his significance in the narrative and foreshadows the tragic events that follow. Uriah's character contrasts with David's actions, as he later demonstrates integrity and loyalty.

So Joab sent him to David.
Joab's compliance with David's order reflects his role as a subordinate to the king, despite the moral implications of the situation. Joab's actions throughout the biblical narrative often show a pragmatic and sometimes ruthless approach to military and political matters. This phrase sets in motion the events that lead to Uriah's death, orchestrated by David. The obedience of Joab, despite the questionable nature of the command, raises questions about loyalty and the moral responsibilities of those in power. This moment is pivotal in the unfolding of David's sin and its consequences, which are later addressed by the prophet Nathan and result in personal and national repercussions for David.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The King of Israel, who is central to this account. At this point in the account, David is orchestrating a plan to cover up his sin with Bathsheba.

2. Joab
The commander of David's army. He is a key figure in executing David's orders, demonstrating his loyalty to the king, albeit in a morally complex situation.

3. Uriah the Hittite
A valiant warrior in David's army and the husband of Bathsheba. His integrity and loyalty contrast sharply with David's actions.

4. Jerusalem
The city where David resides and from where he sends for Uriah. It serves as the backdrop for the unfolding drama of David's sin and its consequences.

5. The War
The ongoing battle against the Ammonites, which Uriah is called back from. This war serves as the context for the events, highlighting the contrast between the battlefield and David's actions at home.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
David's attempt to cover his sin with Bathsheba leads to further sin. This illustrates how sin can compound and lead to greater consequences.

Integrity vs. Deception
Uriah's integrity stands in stark contrast to David's deception. This challenges us to consider our own integrity in difficult situations.

The Role of Leadership
David's actions remind us of the responsibility leaders have to act righteously, as their actions can have widespread effects.

Repentance and Forgiveness
While David's actions were grievous, his later repentance (as seen in Psalm 51) shows the possibility of forgiveness and restoration with God.

God's Sovereignty and Justice
Despite human failings, God's justice prevails, as seen in the eventual exposure of David's sin and the consequences that follow.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's decision to send for Uriah reflect his state of mind and spiritual condition at this point in the account?

2. In what ways does Uriah's character challenge us to live with integrity, even when others around us may not?

3. How can we apply the lessons of leadership and responsibility from David's actions to our own roles, whether in family, work, or community?

4. Reflect on a time when you tried to cover up a mistake. What were the consequences, and how does this account encourage you to handle such situations differently?

5. How does the account of David and Uriah connect with Jesus' teachings on the heart and sin in the New Testament, and what practical steps can we take to guard our hearts?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 12
The subsequent chapter where Nathan confronts David, revealing the consequences of his actions and God's judgment.

Psalm 51
David's psalm of repentance, traditionally understood to be written after Nathan's confrontation, showing David's remorse and plea for forgiveness.

Matthew 5:27-28
Jesus' teaching on adultery, which underscores the seriousness of David's sin and the heart's role in sin.

James 1:14-15
This passage describes the process of temptation leading to sin, which parallels David's actions in this account.