This pericope is in two parts. First there is the testimony of Nathan against David. A little trap is laid about another man who has stolen a lamb. David answers without self-consciousness. Nathan has to tell David, "You are the man who has stolen the sheep." "You are the one who should be punished." We are reminded of that wonderful part of the Lord's Prayer, "Forgive us our sins — debts — trespasses — as we forgive those who sin against us." David indeed has stolen the wife of Uriah from him. David has not tamed his lust toward Bathsheba.

The second part is the divine judgment against David. He does take Bathsheba as his stolen wife. She does bear a son. The son dies. First, David receives the judgment of his dear friend Nathan. Then he receives the judgment of his God. In that judgment…