Proposition: When we refuse to look at our actions objectively then we are capable of doing almost anything. We will justify and excuse behavior that we condemn in others. We must judge all behavior the same. This will enable us to have compassion on others and deal with our own short comings.

Introduction: Review the 11th Chapter

I. The Confrontation

A. The Lord Sent Nathan the Prophet

1. David needs to be corrected but he has full authority in the kingdom. God sends the prophet to correct king David
2. God will even punish countries if he needs to.
3. God will deal with those in authority if they are oppressive or abusive with their power.

B. Nathan Told a Parable

1. Nathan needed a way to confront David and make him understand how bad his actions had been
2. Jesus used parables to teach multitudes the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven. (Luke 8:10)
3. Parables have a way of communication truths effectively

C. The parable illustrated David's despicable actions.

1. The rich man in Nathans parable did terrible things that were akin to David's despicable actions. This was
2. When spouses are arguing they sometimes stop listening if they feel they are being blamed.
3. We need to learn how to communicate our issues without putting the other party on the defense

II. The Condemnation

A. David Became Angry at the Rich Man

1. David easily saw how bad these actions were when they were done by someone else
2. We as a people can easily see racism in the actions of others but we often excuse our own racism. We often ask, "was he white?"
3. We must not be so hypocritical that we justify our actions while we condemn them in others.

B. David Wanted the man punished

1. David is so mad that he wants the man put to death and he wants the punishment repaid four fold.
2. When we turn on the news and hear of child molesters we often want them to be punished badly
3. The bible instructs us to not judge. This is to condemn to punishment.

C. David found out that he was the guilty party

1. David is informed that he is the guilty "rich" man. He has stole and killed to get what he wanted
2. Story of Haman and Mordecai in the book of Ester (how Mordecai received the good Haman wanted, but Haman received the bad that he wanted for Mordecai)
3. This is the danger of condemning others to punishment. We may be passing our own judgment. (wishing someone to loose their job etc.)

III. The Conciliation

A. David acknowledges his sin

1. David finally acknowledges his sin.
2. The thief on the cross was suffering his punishment, but acknowledged that he deserved his punishment
3. Until we acknowledge our sins, we cannot move forward.

B. God forgave David's sin

1. Even though David deserved to die, God had compassion on him, and God put his sins away
2. Jesus told the thief on the cross that he would be with him in paradise
3. We must learn to live in the newness of a forgiven life. Love God and live your life as a child of God. Our past sin have no power over us

C. There were still consequences of David's Sin

1. David's family will still suffer anguish because of his action.
2. The alcoholic that comes to Christ late in life may still develop liver problems
3. Even though we are forgiven we may have to deal with the damage we inflicted during our sinful life.

Conclusion: The woman with the alabaster box. (She was a sinner but her sins were forgiven) Luke 7:36-50