National Sin

David's sin of numbering Israel had several secondary causes: David himself, Satan, and Israel. But the primary cause was God Himself, as He chastised Israel for their national sin. In the wake of David's sin and repentance, God calls upon David to choose the punishment upon the nation. The resulting death toll of 70,000 was intended to awaken the people of Israel to their national sin and their need for national repentance. Although Israel was a unique covenant nation, God holds all nations accountable for their national sins, as shown by the histories of Egypt, the Canaanites, Babylon, and others.