The Decline of King David

The material created based on 2 Samuel 11–24 is drawn from the following sources:

1. The Bible (Primary Source)

• English Standard Version (ESV)
• New International Version (NIV)
• New King James Version (NKJV)

These translations provide the direct biblical account of David's moral failings, the consequences of his sin, Absalom's rebellion, and the events surrounding the latter part of David's reign.

2. Biblical Commentaries and Expository Resources

• Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible: This resource offers detailed explanations and theological insights into David's sin with Bathsheba, the consequences of his actions, and the unfolding drama of Absalom's rebellion.
• The New Bible Commentary (Editors: D.A. Carson, R.T. France, J.A. Motyer, and Gordon Wenham): Provides historical context, thematic analysis, and a theological examination of key events in David's later reign, including the census and Absalom's uprising.
• Keil and Delitzsch Commentary on the Old Testament: This commentary offers linguistic and cultural analysis, particularly helpful in understanding the significance of ancient Near Eastern customs, such as David's census and its consequences.

3. Biblical Background and Theological Resources

• "The IVP Bible Background Commentary: Old Testament" by John H. Walton, Victor H. Matthews, and Mark W. Chavalas: This resource provides cultural, historical, and social context that deepens the understanding of the events surrounding David's reign, including insights into David's census and the political intricacies of Absalom's rebellion.
• "An Introduction to the Old Testament" by Tremper Longman III and Raymond B. Dillard: This book gives theological and historical perspectives on the key themes of 2 Samuel, especially the tension between David's faithfulness and his moral failures.

4. Pastoral and Practical Leadership Insights

• "The Life of David" by F.B. Meyer: This resource reflects on David's spiritual journey, focusing on his heart for God, his moral lapses, and his ultimate reliance on divine mercy, providing practical insights for Christian living and leadership.
• "Spiritual Leadership" by J. Oswald Sanders: While primarily focused on leadership principles, Sanders' teachings often use David's life as a case study to explore the importance of repentance, humility, and reliance on God's grace.

These sources, alongside the biblical narrative of II Samuel 11-24, offer the foundation for the summaries, interpretations, and reflections provided in today's material, emphasizing the key lessons from David's life for contemporary Christians.