On this episode of The Hillsdale College Online Courses Podcast, Jeremiah and Juan discuss the lessons we can learn from David's twilight years before introducing Justin Jackson, professor of English at Hillsdale College.

David’s army successfully quashes Absalom’s rebellion, but David suffers the loss of another son. As his reign comes to an end, a repentant David provides a model of the king of Israel as a shepherd willing to sacrifice himself for his sheep.

First and Second Samuel tell the story of Saul and David, Israel’s first two kings. These Old Testament books depict the importance of the relationship between father and son and the consequences of sin for the sinner, his family, and his nation. While David’s transgressions lead to great tragedy for himself and Israel, his penitence shows a path toward redemption.