Nathan

*Nathan’s story is told in 2 Samuel 7-1 Kings 1

Who Nathan Is

  • Nathan is a prophet in the Old Testament, appearing in the books of Samuel, Kings, and Chronicles.
  • He is a trusted adviser to King David, serving during David’s reign in Jerusalem.
  • Nathan’s ministry was active during a critical period of Israel’s history when the nation was solidifying under King David’s rule.
  • His role was instrumental in guiding and admonishing the king, as well as delivering God’s word to the people.

Strengths and Accomplishments

  • Nathan bravely confronted King David over his adultery with Bathsheba and the murder of her husband Uriah (2 Samuel 12:1-14).
  • He was not afraid to speak God’s truth, even when it was uncomfortable or could potentially endanger him.
  • Nathan was instrumental in establishing Solomon as King David’s successor (1 Kings 1:11-14).
  • He wrote records about the reigns of both David and Solomon (1 Chronicles 29:29, 2 Chronicles 9:29).

Weaknesses and Mistakes

  • The Bible does not explicitly mention many weaknesses or mistakes of Nathan. His character is generally portrayed in a positive light.
  • Nathan initially approved David’s plan to build a temple without consulting God first (2 Samuel 7:1-3). However, he corrected this when God revealed His plans to him (2 Samuel 7:4-17).

Lessons from His Life

  • Nathan’s confrontation with King David shows the importance of courageously standing for truth and justice.
  • His honesty in admitting a mistake illustrates the significance of humility and integrity.
  • Nathan’s role in advising King David highlights the necessity of wise counsel in leadership.
  • His support in the transition of power from David to Solomon illustrates the impact a trusted adviser can have.

Key Verses (NIV version)

  • 2 Samuel 12:7 – Then Nathan said to David, “You are the man! This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says…”
  • 2 Samuel 7:4-5 – But that night the word of the LORD came to Nathan, saying: “Go and tell my servant David, ‘This is what the LORD says…'”
  • 1 Kings 1:11-13 – Then Nathan asked Bathsheba, Solomon’s mother, “Have you not heard that Adonijah, the son of Haggith, has become king, and our lord David knows nothing about it?…”