The Ripple Effects of Sin

2 Samuel 13 is one of the most difficult passages in Scripture—and one we would be tempted to avoid if we were not committed to preaching God’s Word honestly and fully. In this sermon, we walk carefully through the tragic account of Amnon, Tamar, Absalom, and David to see what God intends to teach us through such a devastating story.

This passage shows us how sin escalates when it is allowed to grow unchecked—moving from distorted desire, to abuse of power, to hatred, and finally to silence that allows destruction to spread. Along the way, we see how sin blinds, deceives, and leaves deep wounds in its wake.

But this story is not only a warning—it is also a signpost. Every man in the chapter fails, and that failure is intentional. The text leaves us dissatisfied with the house of David and longing for a better King. In the midst of darkness, Scripture points us to Jesus—the King who gives instead of takes, who confronts sin instead of hiding it, who protects the vulnerable, and who absorbs judgment rather than passing it on.

This sermon calls us to honest confession, early repentance, and courageous obedience—and invites us to come to the only King who can forgive, restore, and save us from our sin.