Text: 2Sa 12:1-14
A. Reproof from the Word of God (12:1).
The Lord told David, “Thou art the man”. a. The Lord did not ask, “Who is the man?” b. Instead of examining himself, David was harsh in his condemnation of others (2Sa 12:5-6). c. Oftentimes, we tend to be critical of others, but lenient with ourselves (Mat 7:1-5). d. When we hear a sermon, do we reflect upon ourselves, or do we think of others to whom the sermon would apply?
The word of God ought to tell us, “Thou art the man.” a. We are to consider our ways, not others’ ways (Hag 1:7). b. We need to make corrections to our lives (Jas 1:22). c. We need to take heed to ourselves first before teaching others (1Ti 4:16).
We need reproof from the word of God. a. Because it will keep us in the faith (2Co 13:5). b. Because it will lead us to spiritual maturity (2Ti 3:16-17).
B. Reubke of erring brethren (12:7).
Nathan told David, “Thou art the man.” a. Nathan did not say, “He is the man.” b. Instead of telling others about David’s sins, Nathan confronted David personally (2Sa 12:1). c. Oftentimes, we tend to broadcast a person’s sins to everyone else, other than the person himself (Mat 18:15-17). d. When we are uncertain about a brother’s actions, do we seek to clarify with him directly, or do we talk to others about him behind his back?
We ought to tell erring brethren, “Thou art the man.” a. We need to rebuke in humility (Gal 6:1). b. We need to rebuke in love (Eph 4:15). c. We need to rebuke with patience (2Ti 4:2).
We need to rebuke erring brethren. a. Because it will save their souls (Jas 5:19-20). b. Because it will save our souls (Eze 3:18-19).
C. Repent of personal wrongdoings (12:13).
David told himself, “Thou art the man.” a. David did not rebut, “You are also the man.” b. Instead of finding fault with Nathan, David acknowledged his sins (2Sa 12:13). c. Oftentimes, we tend to be defensive or make counter accusations against brethren who correct us (Mat 7:6). d. When we do something wrong, do we acknowledge our faults and change, or do we make excuses and push the blame to others?
We ought to tell ourselves, “Thou art the man.” a. We need to be thankful for concerned brethren who love us enough to correct us (Pro 27:5-6). b. We need to repent of our sins and not repeat them (Pro 28:13). c. We need to accept the consequences of our wrongdoings (Gal 6:7).
We need to repent of personal wrongdoings. a. Because we will receive forgiveness (1Jo 1:9). b. Because it will lead to our salvation (2Co 7:10).