Answer # 16

The Bible leaves no doubt as to David's guilt. According to the law (Lev. 20:10), one who committed such a deed was worthy of death. But the wheels of justice seem to move slowly at times, and the apparent laxity with which "justice" was carried out in this case was not unique.

Historically, we see that the "administration of death" lost its teeth soon after the days of Moses. The people of Israel as a whole never did observe God's laws perfectly.

Nor were the transgressors always punished in a prescribed manner. The society in general simply winked at certain sins. David was not the first to commit adultery and get away with it for a time.

Another point to consider is that David, being the king, was the ultimate authority in the nation. Who would have dared to cast the first stone? Ultimately it was Nathan, a prophet of God, who confronted David with his sins.

But, we might ask, why didn't God strike David down immediately?

God in His infinite wisdom turned a bad situation into something good - for us all! He didn't take David's life, but neither did He let David get away with his sins (II Sam. 12:11-14). God exercised patience, knowing David's heart, and David ultimately repented.

David's heartfelt repentance serves as an inspiration and an example for all generations. Psalm 51 records David's prayer as he renewed his contact with God. Yes, David sinned - as have all humans (Rom. 3:23). But unlike so many individuals, David's confession was heartrendingly sincere, his repentance total, and he humbly submitted to the punishment God did mete out.

David received forgiveness. And in the resurrection he will be king over the 12 tribes of Israel.

Perhaps this whole affair was recorded to graphically illustrate the limitless mercy and patience of God, who is "not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance" (II Pet. 3:9).