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2 Samuel 11

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‹ Chapter 10 2 Samuel — All Chapters Chapter 12 ›

1 In the spring, at the time when kings march out to war, David sent out Joab and his servants with the whole army of Israel. They destroyed the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah, but David remained in Jerusalem. 2 One evening David got up from his bed and strolled around on the roof of the palace. And from the roof he saw a woman bathing—a very beautiful woman. 3 So David sent and inquired about the woman, and he was told, “This is Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam and the wife of Uriah the Hittite." 4 Then David sent messengers to get her, and when she came to him, he slept with her. (Now she had just purified herself from her uncleanness.) Then she returned home. 5 And the woman conceived and sent word to David, saying, “I am pregnant." 6 At this, David sent orders to Joab: “Send me Uriah the Hittite.” So Joab sent him to David. 7 When Uriah came to him, David asked how Joab and the troops were doing with the war. 8 Then he said to Uriah, “Go down to your house and wash your feet.” So Uriah left the palace, and a gift from the king followed him. 9 But Uriah slept at the door of the palace with all his master’s servants; he did not go down to his house. 10 And David was told, “Uriah did not go home.” “Haven’t you just arrived from a journey?” David asked Uriah. “Why didn’t you go home?" 11 Uriah answered, “The ark and Israel and Judah are dwelling in tents, and my master Joab and his soldiers are camped in the open field. How can I go to my house to eat and drink and sleep with my wife? As surely as you live, and as your soul lives, I will not do such a thing!" 12 “Stay here one more day,” David said to Uriah, “and tomorrow I will send you back.” So Uriah stayed in Jerusalem that day and the next. 13 Then David invited Uriah to eat and drink with him, and he got Uriah drunk. And in the evening Uriah went out to lie down on his cot with his master’s servants, but he did not go home. 14 The next morning David wrote a letter to Joab and sent it with Uriah. 15 In the letter he wrote: “Put Uriah at the front of the fiercest battle; then withdraw from him, so that he may be struck down and killed." 16 So as Joab besieged the city, he assigned Uriah to a place where he saw the strongest enemy soldiers. 17 And when the men of the city came out and fought against Joab, some of David’s servants fell, and Uriah the Hittite also died. 18 Joab sent to David a full account of the battle 19 and instructed the messenger, “When you have finished giving the king all the details of the battle, 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? 21 Who was the one to strike Abimelech son of Jerubbesheth ? Was it not a woman who dropped an upper millstone on him from the wall, so that he died in Thebez? Why did you get so close to the wall?’ If so, then you are to say, ‘Your servant Uriah the Hittite is dead as well.’" 22 So the messenger set out and reported to David all that Joab had sent him to say. 23 The messenger said to David, “The men overpowered us and came out against us in the field, but we drove them back to the entrance of the gate. 24 Then the archers shot at your servants from the wall, and some of the king’s servants were killed. And your servant Uriah the Hittite is dead as well." 25 Then David told the messenger, “Say this to Joab: ‘Do not let this matter upset you, for the sword devours one as well as another. Strengthen your attack against the city and demolish it.’ Encourage him with these words." 26 When Uriah’s wife heard that her husband was dead, she mourned for him. 27 And when the time of mourning was over, David had her brought to his house, and she became his wife and bore him a son. But the thing that David had done was evil in the sight of the LORD.

‹ Chapter 10 2 Samuel — All Chapters Chapter 12 ›

Study Notes — 2 Samuel 11

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Chapter Summary

In 2 Samuel 11, King David stays behind in Jerusalem while his army is at war, and he sees Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah, bathing. He sends for her and sleeps with her, and she becomes pregnant. David tries to cover up the sin by calling Uriah back from the war, but Uriah refuses to go home to his wife. David then has Uriah killed in battle, and he marries Bathsheba. However, the Lord is displeased with David's actions, and He sends the prophet Nathan to confront him. Nathan tells David that the Lord has taken away his sin, but there will still be consequences for his actions. The chapter ends with the death of David and Bathsheba's son, which serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin.

Context for the Chapter

This chapter is part of the larger narrative of 2 Samuel, which tells the story of King David's reign. The chapter follows the events of 2 Samuel 10, in which David's army is at war with the Ammonites. The events of 2 Samuel 11 take place while David is still in Jerusalem, and they serve as a turning point in the narrative. The chapter also looks forward to the rest of the book, which will explore the consequences of David's sin and the impact it has on his family and kingdom.

Heart Application

This chapter serves as a warning about the dangers of unchecked sin and the importance of repentance. As we read through the chapter, we are reminded of the need to be vigilant in our own lives, seeking accountability and forgiveness when we sin. We are also reminded of the Lord's mercy and forgiveness, and the importance of seeking restoration when we have sinned.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

This chapter tells the story of King David's sin with Bathsheba, including his attempt to cover it up and the consequences that followed. In 2 Samuel 11:1-5, we see how David's sin begins, and in 2 Samuel 11:26-27, we see the consequences of his actions. The chapter serves as a reminder of the importance of repentance and seeking forgiveness when we sin.

Voices from the Church

“The sin of David is a solemn warning to all who are in positions of power and authority. It shows us that even the best of men can fall, and that sin can have terrible consequences.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The Lord's mercy and forgiveness are not limited to those who are sinless, but are available to all who repent and seek restoration.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

  1. The Sin of David (2 Samuel 11:1-5) — In this section, we see how David's sin begins, as he stays behind in Jerusalem and sees Bathsheba bathing. He sends for her and sleeps with her, and she becomes pregnant.
  2. The Attempt to Cover Up the Sin (2 Samuel 11:6-13) — In this section, we see how David tries to cover up his sin by calling Uriah back from the war and trying to get him to sleep with Bathsheba. However, Uriah refuses to go home to his wife, and David becomes more and more desperate.
  3. The Murder of Uriah (2 Samuel 11:14-25) — In this section, we see how David's sin spirals out of control, as he has Uriah killed in battle. He then marries Bathsheba, but the Lord is displeased with his actions.
  4. The Confrontation by Nathan (2 Samuel 11:26-27) — In this section, we see how the Lord sends the prophet Nathan to confront David about his sin. Nathan tells David that the Lord has taken away his sin, but there will still be consequences for his actions.
  5. The Death of the Son (2 Samuel 11:27) — In this section, we see the consequences of David's sin, as his son with Bathsheba dies. This serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the importance of repentance.

Core Doctrines

The Depravity of Man
This chapter teaches us about the depravity of man, as we see how even David, a man after God's own heart, can fall into sin. In 2 Samuel 11:1-5, we see how David's sin begins, and in 2 Samuel 11:26-27, we see the consequences of his actions.
The Mercy of God
This chapter also teaches us about the mercy of God, as we see how the Lord forgives David and restores him. In 2 Samuel 11:27, we see how the Lord takes away David's sin, despite the consequences that follow.
The Importance of Repentance
The chapter highlights the importance of repentance, as David seeks forgiveness and restoration after his sin. In 2 Samuel 11:26-27, we see how David repents and seeks forgiveness, and how the Lord restores him.
The Consequences of Sin
Finally, the chapter teaches us about the consequences of sin, as we see how David's actions lead to trouble and heartache. In 2 Samuel 11:27, we see how the Lord takes away David's sin, but the consequences of his actions still follow.

Lessons from 2 Samuel 11

  1. The Dangers of Unchecked Sin — This chapter teaches us about the dangers of unchecked sin, as we see how David's initial sin with Bathsheba leads to a series of other sins. We are reminded of the importance of seeking forgiveness and restoration when we sin.
  2. The Importance of Accountability — The chapter highlights the importance of accountability, as Nathan confronts David about his sin and brings him to repentance. We are reminded of the need for accountability in our own lives, whether through a pastor, a mentor, or a friend.
  3. The Mercy of God — This chapter serves as a reminder of the Lord's mercy and forgiveness, as we see how He forgives David and restores him. We are reminded of the importance of seeking forgiveness and restoration when we sin.
  4. The Consequences of Sin — The chapter teaches us about the consequences of sin, as we see how David's actions lead to trouble and heartache. We are reminded of the importance of avoiding sin and seeking forgiveness and restoration when we fail.
  5. The Importance of Repentance — Finally, the chapter highlights the importance of repentance, as David seeks forgiveness and restoration after his sin. We are reminded of the need to seek forgiveness and restoration when we sin, and to trust in the Lord's mercy and forgiveness.

Themes from 2 Samuel 11

  1. The Depravity of Man — This chapter teaches us about the depravity of man, as we see how even David, a man after God's own heart, can fall into sin. We are reminded of the importance of seeking forgiveness and restoration when we sin.
  2. The Mercy of God — The chapter serves as a reminder of the Lord's mercy and forgiveness, as we see how He forgives David and restores him. We are reminded of the importance of seeking forgiveness and restoration when we sin.
  3. The Importance of Repentance — The chapter highlights the importance of repentance, as David seeks forgiveness and restoration after his sin. We are reminded of the need to seek forgiveness and restoration when we sin, and to trust in the Lord's mercy and forgiveness.
  4. The Consequences of Sin — The chapter teaches us about the consequences of sin, as we see how David's actions lead to trouble and heartache. We are reminded of the importance of avoiding sin and seeking forgiveness and restoration when we fail.
  5. The Importance of Accountability — Finally, the chapter highlights the importance of accountability, as Nathan confronts David about his sin and brings him to repentance. We are reminded of the need for accountability in our own lives, whether through a pastor, a mentor, or a friend.

Questions for Meditation

  1. What are some ways that sin can spiral out of control, as we see in the story of David and Bathsheba?
  2. How does the Lord's mercy and forgiveness serve as a reminder of His character?
  3. What are some ways that we can seek accountability and forgiveness when we sin?
  4. How does the story of David and Bathsheba serve as a warning about the dangers of unchecked sin?
  5. What are some ways that we can apply the lessons of this chapter to our own lives, seeking to avoid the dangers of sin and seeking forgiveness and restoration when we fail?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. The Sin of David (2 Samuel 11:1-5)

11:1 In this verse, we see how David stays behind in Jerusalem while his army is at war, and he sees Bathsheba bathing. This sets the stage for the events that will follow.
11:2 In this verse, we see how David sends for Bathsheba and sleeps with her, and she becomes pregnant. This is the beginning of David's sin, and it will lead to a series of other sins.
11:3 In this verse, we see how David inquires about Bathsheba, and he learns that she is the wife of Uriah. This serves as a reminder of the seriousness of David's sin, as he is sleeping with another man's wife.
11:4 In this verse, we see how David sends for Bathsheba and sleeps with her again, and she becomes pregnant. This serves as a reminder of the dangers of unchecked sin, as David's initial sin leads to a series of other sins.
11:5 In this verse, we see how Bathsheba sends word to David that she is pregnant, and David realizes the seriousness of his sin. This serves as a turning point in the narrative, as David begins to try to cover up his sin.

2. The Attempt to Cover Up the Sin (2 Samuel 11:6-13)

11:6 In this verse, we see how David calls Uriah back from the war, and he tries to get him to sleep with Bathsheba. This serves as a reminder of the dangers of sin, as David tries to cover up his actions.
11:7 In this verse, we see how Uriah comes to David, but he refuses to go home to his wife. This serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability, as Uriah's actions serve as a contrast to David's sin.
11:8 In this verse, we see how David tries to get Uriah to sleep with Bathsheba, but Uriah refuses. This serves as a reminder of the seriousness of David's sin, as he tries to manipulate Uriah into covering up his actions.
11:9 In this verse, we see how Uriah sleeps at the door of the king's house, and David becomes more and more desperate. This serves as a reminder of the dangers of sin, as David's actions become more and more extreme.
11:10 In this verse, we see how David tries to get Uriah to sleep with Bathsheba, but Uriah refuses again. This serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability, as Uriah's actions serve as a contrast to David's sin.
11:11 In this verse, we see how Uriah says that he will not go home to his wife, and David becomes more and more desperate. This serves as a reminder of the dangers of sin, as David's actions become more and more extreme.
11:12 In this verse, we see how David gets Uriah drunk, but Uriah still refuses to go home to his wife. This serves as a reminder of the seriousness of David's sin, as he tries to manipulate Uriah into covering up his actions.
11:13 In this verse, we see how Uriah goes to his house, but he does not sleep with Bathsheba. This serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability, as Uriah's actions serve as a contrast to David's sin.

3. The Murder of Uriah (2 Samuel 11:14-25)

11:14 In this verse, we see how David writes a letter to Joab, telling him to put Uriah on the front lines of the battle. This serves as a reminder of the dangers of sin, as David's actions become more and more extreme.
11:15 In this verse, we see how David tells Joab to withdraw from Uriah, so that he will be killed in battle. This serves as a reminder of the seriousness of David's sin, as he tries to manipulate the situation to his advantage.
11:16 In this verse, we see how Joab puts Uriah on the front lines of the battle, and he is killed. This serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin, as David's actions lead to the death of an innocent man.
11:17 In this verse, we see how Joab sends a messenger to David, telling him about the battle and the death of Uriah. This serves as a reminder of the dangers of sin, as David's actions become more and more extreme.
11:18 In this verse, we see how the messenger tells David about the death of Uriah, and David becomes more and more desperate. This serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin, as David's actions lead to the death of an innocent man.
11:19 In this verse, we see how the messenger tells David about the battle, and David becomes more and more desperate. This serves as a reminder of the dangers of sin, as David's actions become more and more extreme.
11:20 In this verse, we see how Joab tells the messenger to tell David about the death of Uriah, and David becomes more and more desperate. This serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin, as David's actions lead to the death of an innocent man.
11:21 In this verse, we see how the messenger tells David about the death of Uriah, and David becomes more and more desperate. This serves as a reminder of the dangers of sin, as David's actions become more and more extreme.
11:22 In this verse, we see how the messenger goes to David and tells him about the battle, and David becomes more and more desperate. This serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin, as David's actions lead to the death of an innocent man.
11:23 In this verse, we see how the messenger tells David about the battle, and David becomes more and more desperate. This serves as a reminder of the dangers of sin, as David's actions become more and more extreme.
11:24 In this verse, we see how the messenger tells David about the death of Uriah, and David becomes more and more desperate. This serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin, as David's actions lead to the death of an innocent man.
11:25 In this verse, we see how David tells Joab to not be discouraged, and to attack the city again. This serves as a reminder of the dangers of sin, as David's actions become more and more extreme.

4. The Confrontation by Nathan (2 Samuel 11:26-27)

11:26 In this verse, we see how David marries Bathsheba, and she becomes his wife. This serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin, as David's actions lead to the death of an innocent man and the marriage to another man's wife.
11:27 In this verse, we see how the Lord is displeased with David's actions, and He sends the prophet Nathan to confront him. This serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability, as Nathan's actions serve as a contrast to David's sin.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main theme of 2 Samuel 11?

The main theme of 2 Samuel 11 is the consequences of sin, as we see how David's actions lead to trouble and heartache. In 2 Samuel 11:1-5, we see how David's sin begins, and in 2 Samuel 11:26-27, we see the consequences of his actions.

How does the story of David and Bathsheba relate to the rest of the Bible?

The story of David and Bathsheba is part of the larger narrative of the Bible, which tells the story of God's relationship with His people. In Psalm 51:1, we see how David repents of his sin and seeks forgiveness from the Lord, and in John 1:1, we see how Jesus Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of God's plan to redeem His people from sin.

What can we learn from the story of David and Bathsheba?

We can learn about the dangers of unchecked sin, the importance of accountability, and the mercy of God. In 2 Samuel 11:1-5, we see how David's sin begins, and in 2 Samuel 11:26-27, we see the consequences of his actions. We are reminded of the importance of seeking forgiveness and restoration when we sin, and of trusting in the Lord's mercy and forgiveness.

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 2 Samuel 11:1 → 1 Kings 15:5 In this cross-reference, we see how David's sin with Bathsheba is contrasted with his earlier faithfulness to the Lord. This serves as a reminder of the dangers of sin and the importance of seeking forgiveness and restoration.
2 2 Samuel 11:2 → Proverbs 6:27 In this cross-reference, we see how David's sin with Bathsheba is compared to the dangers of adultery. This serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of seeking forgiveness and restoration.
3 2 Samuel 11:3 → Genesis 39:7 In this cross-reference, we see how David's sin with Bathsheba is contrasted with the faithfulness of Joseph. This serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking forgiveness and restoration when we sin, and of trusting in the Lord's mercy and forgiveness.
4 2 Samuel 11:4 → Deuteronomy 22:22 In this cross-reference, we see how David's sin with Bathsheba is compared to the seriousness of adultery in the law. This serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of seeking forgiveness and restoration.
5 2 Samuel 11:5 → Psalm 51:1 In this cross-reference, we see how David's sin with Bathsheba is contrasted with his later repentance and seeking of forgiveness from the Lord. This serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking forgiveness and restoration when we sin, and of trusting in the Lord's mercy and forgiveness.
6 2 Samuel 11:6 → 1 Samuel 21:1 In this cross-reference, we see how David's sin with Bathsheba is contrasted with his earlier faithfulness to the Lord. This serves as a reminder of the dangers of sin and the importance of seeking forgiveness and restoration.
7 2 Samuel 11:7 → Proverbs 28:13 In this cross-reference, we see how David's sin with Bathsheba is compared to the importance of confessing and forsaking sin. This serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking forgiveness and restoration when we sin, and of trusting in the Lord's mercy and forgiveness.
8 2 Samuel 11:8 → Matthew 1:6 In this cross-reference, we see how David's sin with Bathsheba is contrasted with the genealogy of Jesus Christ. This serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking forgiveness and restoration when we sin, and of trusting in the Lord's mercy and forgiveness.
9 2 Samuel 11:9 → Luke 15:11 In this cross-reference, we see how David's sin with Bathsheba is compared to the parable of the prodigal son. This serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking forgiveness and restoration when we sin, and of trusting in the Lord's mercy and forgiveness.
10 2 Samuel 11:10 → Romans 3:23 In this cross-reference, we see how David's sin with Bathsheba is contrasted with the universal sinfulness of humanity. This serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking forgiveness and restoration when we sin, and of trusting in the Lord's mercy and forgiveness.

Sermons on 2 Samuel 11

SermonDescription
Joshua Harris Dating: God's Way by Joshua Harris In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of living differently in order to avoid negative consequences in relationships. He shares a story about a young boy who cheats
A.W. Tozer Do Not Be Discouraged by A.W. Tozer In this sermon, the preacher talks about feeling captive and discouraged in life. He uses the example of Ezekiel, who was held captive and had his freedom taken away. The preacher
Art Katz David's Cry for Mercy by Art Katz In this sermon, the preacher begins by expressing gratitude for the trust and welcome of the congregation. He emphasizes the importance of risking everything for God, even if it me
Jim Cymbala Ancestors by Jim Cymbala In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need for guidance and nourishment in our spiritual lives. He compares humans to sheep, highlighting their dependence on a shepherd to lea
Danny Bond Maximum Effort Noblest Cause by Danny Bond In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the life and mindset of the apostle Paul, particularly in his letter to Timothy. The speaker highlights four key aspects of Paul's life that
David Ravenhill Capital City Church - Part 1 by David Ravenhill In the video, the speaker shares a personal story about being asked to teach in Malaysia. During their stay, they were shown a video by a Chinese doctor featuring Suzette Hadding,
David Guzik (2 Samuel) Amnon, Tamar, and Absalom by David Guzik In this sermon, the preacher discusses the tragic events that unfolded in Israel when Absalom, the son of King David, sought revenge for the violation of his sister Tamar. Absalom
David Guzik (2 Samuel) a Not-So-Sudden Fall by David Guzik In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the tragic events described in Second Samuel chapter 11. He emphasizes the importance of learning from God's word rather than from bitter ex
David Guzik (2 Samuel) Caught in the Trap of Sin by David Guzik In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of David and Bathsheba from 2 Samuel chapter 11. He describes a scene where David and Bathsheba are together, knowing they have do
George Verwer Crisis by George Verwer In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the Christian life as a life of grace, not driven by the law or false guilt. He encourages believers to rest

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 2 Samuel 11

In this chapter, we see the sad story of David's sin with Bathsheba, and the consequences that follow. David's sin begins with his staying behind in Jerusalem while his army is at war, and it leads to a series of other sins, including murder and deception. However, despite David's sin, the Lord is merciful and forgives him, and David repents and seeks restoration. This chapter serves as a reminder of the dangers of sin and the importance of seeking forgiveness and restoration when we sin. As Matthew Henry says, 'The sin of David was a great sin, but the mercy of God was greater.' In 2 Samuel 11:1-5, we see how David's sin begins, and in 2 Samuel 11:26-27, we see the consequences of his actions. This chapter teaches us about the importance of accountability, the dangers of unchecked sin, and the mercy of God. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

The Danger of Unchecked Sin

In this chapter, we see how quickly sin can spiral out of control. David's initial sin with Bathsheba leads to a series of other sins, including murder and deception. This serves as a warning about the dangers of unchecked sin and the importance of repentance.

The Importance of Accountability

The chapter highlights the importance of accountability, as Nathan confronts David about his sin and brings him to repentance. This serves as a reminder of the need for accountability in our own lives, whether through a pastor, a mentor, or a friend.

The Mercy of God

Despite David's sin, the Lord shows him mercy and forgiveness. This serves as a reminder of the Lord's character and the importance of seeking forgiveness and restoration.

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