Bible Discussion Thread

David sinned. Why did his child have to die? the question asked because of Ezekiel 18.

That is an interesting question. That is in line with the death of many children; before the age of accountability in scripture which in some cases was demanded as part of the destruction of surrounding nations. Ultimately; it can be established that SPIRITUAL death (which is the ultimate punishment of the wicked) is a factor in this chapter-as the righteous and their earthly death is NOT mentioned. That eliminates children from entering hell before the age of accountability; and in fact David's attitude after the period of mourning and fasting indicates that "He cannot go to me; but I shall go to him." It also is instructive that the proper response to David's adultery and consent to the murder of Uriah demonstrated grace; as there was nothing in the law that could prevent being stoned for such an act of treason. It would be better stated that the child's death was a result of David's sin; kind of like a collateral damage. The child certainly was not told he would die because of his own sin; nor as stated above was it any scriptural method to deal with David's sin. Therefore he wasn't held accountable for David's sin; but died as a result of it. Perhaps something as simple as not being protected from illnesses leading to death; or other factors were due to a hedge of protection being removed as a result of David's actions. (Actually the passage is 2 Samuel 12). Nathan's reason of God doing this indicating David's contempt for the Lord or as KJV says reason to blaspheme (v. 14) the child would die. Verse 13 indicates BEFOREHAND David's sin was already forgiven and he shall not die. Perhaps the Hittites related to Uriah would rightly see a righteous man sacrificing himself for the sake of Israel necessitating vengeance. This seems like God's way of vindicating them; who in this case were righteous rather than the King of His chosen nation who needed to be held accountable. Also, Deut. 29:29 shows mysteries of God that we cannot comprehend.

Hi Charles,

I think that David had 8 wives that are named in Scripture. But He did have other wives and concubines. We do not know how many. Solomon had 800 wives and concubines.

I was speaking of the son of David and Bathsheba when I asked that question.

Yes, I understand. Their first child died as an infant. From a site I read, Bathsheba had about 11 children with David, 4-5 sons. David had 19 sons altogether and many daughters. I do not know why God had the child die. It may have been related to their illicit affair and the murder of Bathsheba's husband Uriah. So, I do not know the answer to your question. But I read up on how many wives David had to respond to Charles. So if I got it mixed up.

David had like 800 wives but maybe because he sinned and slept with a married women and had her husband killed, your sins affect your children, The sins of the father our visited upon the children.

Hi Charles,

I think that David had 8 wives. Solomon had 800 wives and concubines.

2Samuel 11, 2 Samuel 12, note 2Samuel 12:23,