Pastor Marshall Ochs | September 10, 2023
In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 2 Samuel 12 and Psalm 51. These chapters tell the story of God exposing David’s sin and David turning to the Lord in repentance. The story puts God’s mercy on display, but also reveals the consequences of our sin. Many consequences are washed away in God’s grace, but some remain. This message explores the purpose of those consequences that remain.
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In 2 Samuel 11, we saw David use his authority over God’s people in a sinful way. This week we are taking a look at how God exercised His authority over David and the far reaching consequences of David’s sin.
Read 2 Samuel 12:1-12. God uses Nathan to speak to David about his sin by using a parable. David had been blessed so richly by God and yet, he wanted what was not his to have and was forbidden by the Lord. Like many who rise to places of power and prestige, David let it go to his head and thought he could do as he desired – forgetting that no sin goes unnoticed by God. This is a sobering thought! Are you currently caught up in sin and trying to keep it hidden in the dark? Do not think for a moment that God does not see it and that it will not be brought into the light. Examine your heart, actions, words, thoughts, etc., and take inventory of the areas that do not line up with God’s word.
In this passage, Marshall brought up the point that the Lord sends his prophets to speak truth to the government. Nathan was used to speak truth to David. God uses His church to speak prophetically to our world and its leaders today. Marshall explained that if we create alliances with government in order to get benefits and comforts, it will rob us of our ability to have a prophetic voice. We damage our witness by holding hands with this world and it’s view of what God calls sin.
There were severe consequences for David’s choices. His family was greatly affected by his sin. He lost 4 children, his family used violence to get their way, and adultery occurred with his wives and other men. (Please refer to Marshall’s notes for more detail and scripture references.) This is a perfect example of the generational consequences of sin. If we worship sin – or idols – we become just like what we worship.
Read 2 Samuel 12:13-17. David’s response to being confronted with his sin was to admit it and confess it to God. David wrote Psalm 51 as he lamented over his sin. According to God’s law, David’s sin was deserving of death. His only choice was to plead for mercy. When he asked the Lord to purge him with hyssop, he was asking to be covered with blood. How prophetic! David wanted to be restored and have the consequences of his sin removed. God does remove some consequences from us, but we are often left with some we must endure for our entire life. Why? So that they will serve as a deterrent from further sin and teach others the importance of avoiding sin.
Read 2 Samuel 12:26-31. This story reveals an important picture. David may have been victorious in battle and had a huge crown to wear on his head, but he had great trouble at home. Please refer to Marshall’s conclusion in his notes. He gives us important points to remember and apply. The evil one wants us to sin and is always looking to try and devour us. We must put on the full armor of God! Sin isn’t without consequences, and it is never as fun, entertaining or innocent as we would like to believe. It is evil and the blood of Jesus is the only cure. Praise be to God for His sacrifice and Christ’s shed blood for us!