David: and Bathsheba

The story of King David's adultery with Bathsheba and his murder of her husband Uriah brings us direct to one of the key teachings on Christian living. as far as the adultery is concerned the world says, 'What's your problem? It's natural'. That is the point. We need more than our God-given instincts - we need the indwelling of God's Spirit. If David had shown the fruit of the Spirit it would have enabled him to overcome temptation. But the fruit of the Spirit is a positive thing, not merely negating our desires but motivating (love) us and directing (self-control) us. The joy, meekness, gentleness etc appear. The Story also emphasies the importance of relationship, both to God and in human life. This is not primarily about a physical act; it is about howw people relate to one another, and it is in relationships that the works of the flesh or the fruit of the spirit become apparent.