Beginning of the End

David Temporarily Becomes the Agent of Satan

David’s record as a ruler had won the confidence of the nation, but as he departed from God, he became for a time the agent of Satan. Yet he still held the authority that God had given him, and because of this he claimed obedience that would pose a threat to the soul of his commander if he cooperated. But Joab had given his allegiance to the king rather than to God, and he transgressed God’s law because the king commanded it. BOE 363.3

When David commanded what was contrary to God’s law, it became sin to obey. “The authorities that exist are appointed by God” (Romans 13:1), but we are not to obey them contrary to God’s law. The apostle Paul explains the principle by which we should be governed: “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1 KJV). BOE 363.4

Joab sent news to David that his order had been carried out, but it was so carefully worded that it did not implicate either Joab or the king. “Your servant Uriah the Hittite is dead.” BOE 363.5

The king’s answer was, “Thus you shall say to Joab, ‘Do not let this thing displease you, for the sword devours one as well as another.’” BOE 363.6

According to custom, Bathsheba mourned for her husband an appropriate number of days, and at their close, “David sent and brought her to his house, and she became his wife.” He who would not, even when his life was in danger, use his hand against the Lord’s anointed, had fallen so far that he could wrong and murder one of his most faithful, brave soldiers, and hope to enjoy the reward of his sin undisturbed. BOE 363.7

Happy are those who, having strayed from the right path, learn how bitter the fruits of sin are, and turn from it. God in His mercy did not leave David to be lured to complete ruin by the deceitful rewards of sin. BOE 363.8