Nathan was a faithful prophet during the reign of King David. He first appears in 2 Samuel 7, when David expresses a desire to build a house for the Lord. Initially, Nathan affirms David’s plan, but that night the Lord reveals to Nathan a different message. Nathan tells David that instead of David building a house for God, God will establish a house for David, a royal lineage that will endure forever. This is the Davidic Covenant, wherein God promises, “Your house and your kingdom shall be established forever before you” (2 Samuel 7:16).
Nathan later played a crucial role in confronting David after his sin with Bathsheba. In 2 Samuel 12, the Lord sends Nathan to rebuke David. Nathan tells a parable of a rich man who took a poor man’s only lamb, stirring David’s anger. When David declares that the man must die, Nathan responds, “You are the man!” (2 Samuel 12:7). He reveals David’s sin, pronounces God’s judgment, and foretells consequences: “The sword shall never depart from your house” (2 Samuel 12:10). David repents, and Nathan assures him, “The Lord also has put away your sin; you shall not die” (2 Samuel 12:13).
Despite the forgiveness, the child born from David and Bathsheba’s union dies, fulfilling Nathan’s prophecy. However, when Bathsheba later bears Solomon, the Lord loves him, and Nathan names him Jedidiah, meaning “beloved of the Lord” (2 Samuel 12:24–25).
Nathan also appears in 1 Kings 1, during the transition of power. When David was old, Adonijah, another of his sons, sought to make himself king. Nathan informed Bathsheba and advised her to speak with David. Together, they reminded David of his oath that Solomon would reign. Nathan’s intervention ensured that Solomon was anointed king, securing the divine promise.
Nathan’s life displays courage, integrity, and unwavering loyalty to God. He boldly spoke truth to a powerful king, upheld God’s covenant, and played a vital role in preserving the Messianic line. He exemplifies the faithful prophet who speaks God’s word regardless of the cost.
