Judgment, the Destroying Angel, and Mercy at Jerusalem

Through Gad, David is offered three judgments and chooses to fall into the LORD’s hands because God’s mercies are great. A plague kills many, but as the destroying angel approaches Jerusalem, the LORD relents. David sees the angel and asks that judgment fall on him and his house rather than the sheep. The scene joins terrible judgment with divine mercy and royal intercession. David’s willingness to bear responsibility may mirror a shepherd-king concern, but it is not an inspired statement that he is a substitute for the nation.