Bible Strands
2 Samuel 12:14
Nevertheless, because by this deed you have shown utter contempt for the word of the LORD, the son born to you will surely die.”
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Nathan speaks to David immediately after David’s confession, while still in the king’s presence. He declares that despite David’s pardon from death, the child born to him will die because of his actions.
The words — The Hebrew אֶפֶס ('E.fes) means "nevertheless," marking a sharp turn from divine pardon to impending judgment. The verb נִאַצְתָּ (ni.'Atz.ta) literally means "you have shown utter contempt," describing how David’s public deed dishonored God’s word.
The thread — This theme of actions causing God’s name to be blasphemed among outsiders appears in Romans 2:24 and Isaiah 52:5. The link between violating statutes and facing consequences echoes Psalms 89:31.
Why it lands — The text states that public sin brings tangible consequences even after forgiveness is granted. It demands acknowledgment that personal repentance does not erase the external damage inflicted on God’s reputation.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
Howbeit, because by this deed thou hast given great occasion to the enemies of the Lord to blaspheme, the child also that is born unto thee shall surely die.
Cross-references
- Romans 2:24 As it is written: “God’s name is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.”
- Psalms 89:31 if they violate My statutes and fail to keep My commandments,
- Isaiah 52:5 And now what have I here? declares the LORD. For My people have been taken without cause; those who rule them taunt, declares the LORD, and My name is blasphemed continually all day long.
- Psalms 94:12 Blessed is the man You discipline, O LORD, and teach from Your law,
- Proverbs 3:11 My son, do not reject the discipline of the LORD, and do not loathe His rebuke;
- Hebrews 12:6 For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises every son He receives.”
- Revelation 3:19 Those I love I rebuke and discipline. Therefore be earnest and repent.
- Nehemiah 5:9 So I continued, “What you are doing is not right. Shouldn’t you walk in the fear of our God to avoid the reproach of our foreign enemies?
- Psalms 74:10 How long, O God, will the enemy taunt You? Will the foe revile Your name forever?
- Ezekiel 36:20 And wherever they went among the nations, they profaned My holy name, because it was said of them, ‘These are the people of the LORD, yet they had to leave His land.’