Saul Weinreb - Let the Prophets Speak

Samuel 2:14b - Avshalom Gets a Cold Reception

David is convinced to bring Avshalom back to Jerusalem, but he is still stuck in his inability to bring about any justice or reconciliation.  

Samuel 2:14a - The Wise Woman From Tekoa

Yoav sends a woman from Tekoa to tell David a story to get across a special message.  

Samuel 2:13b - Avshalom Kills His Brother Amnon

Avshalom has his brother executed at a party in front of the entire royal family. David is led to believe that Avshalom is attempting a coup and that he killed the entire family, only to find out that it was just revenge against Amnon for his terrible deed.   Avshalom runs away, and David deeply mourns the separation from his son.

Samuel 2:13a - Amnon Violates Tamar

The household of David continues to unravel with the terrible episode of the Sexual assault and rape of Tamar by her brother Amnon.

Samuel 2:12b - David Confesses His Sin

In contrast to Saul, when David is confronted by the prophet he takes responsibility for what he had done.  The son born to Bat-Sheva is afflicted and dies, as Nathan's prophecies begin to be fulfilled. David completes the conquest of Ammon.

Samuel 2:12a - Nathan Confronts David

The prophet Nathan conveys God's message to David regarding the awful deed David has committed.  Emphasizing the abuse of power that David had committed and his attempts at keeping it secret, God will punish David by exposing his sins in public.

Samuel 2:11 Discussion

How can a leader as great as David be guilty of such a grave and serious act?  We discuss some of the most important factors that bring about the downfall of once great leaders.

Samuel 2:11b - David’s Cover-up Gets Worse

As David desperately tries to cover-up his transgression, he arranges for the death of Uriah in battle.  He then takes Bat Sheba as a wife.

Samuel 2:11a - David and His Sin with Bat-Sheba

We read of David's adultery with Bat-Sheba and his attempts to cover it up.

Samuel 2:10 - A Diplomatic Mishap Leads to War With Ammon

David sends a peaceful delegation to Ammon, but they get rebuffed.  This eventually leads to all out war.