7/16/24

If that sounds familiar, it should, because it is how the awful story of David, Bathsheba and Uriah begins (2 Samuel 11:1), and refers to the same precise moment in history. If we read on, however, we discover that the 1 Chronicles version has no mention of David’s sin.  Why is that?

1 and 2 Samuel and 1 and 2 Kings are histories of Israel up to the time when the kingdoms split after Solomon’s reign.  From that point onward, the histories are told of both the northern ten tribes (Israel) and of Judah.  The authors’ perspective is that of God’s people – a sort of “ground level view.” What is central is how God’s people experience and interact with God.  In David’s case we learn that, no matter the sin, if we repent we will be forgiven and restored to the Lord.

In contrast, 1-2 Chronicles tells the history of Judah, the nation of promise from whom King David and ultimately Messiah – King Jesus – will come.  The perspective here is God’s perspective, a “heaven’s eye view.”  What really matters is the unfolding of God’s covenant promises to His people (which will ultimately include us, the redeemed by Jesus).

So – why does 2 Samuel get into David’s sin while 1 Chronicles does not?  Here’s my take:  As far as God’s covenant promises are concerned, our sin cannot get in the way.  Even when David commits horrific acts, they do not stop God’s plan from going forward.  So – as far as Heaven’s perspective – they don’t matter much. This is great news for you and for me.  It basically says that we cannot mess up God’s plans nor thwart His will.  Neither our sin, nor the one behind our sin, Satan, can prevent God from being faithful and delivering all that he has promised.  He always has grace that is greater than all our sin.  Hallelujah!

in Him, Mike