One of the most deceptive aspects of sin is that it tricks us into thinking it is original. We may believe that the Word of God does not direct our actions, or that we have found a loophole in God’s Law, or that our situation is unique. But the Bible teaches us that while times, customs, and technology change, people are basically the same throughout the centuries. One place that we see this truth is in the account of Sheba’s rebellion. The story sounds like we have heard it before – and indeed we have! Fresh on the heels of the defeat of Absalom’s rebellion, David faces another challenge. But there is more – we see Joab being Joab again, murdering another rival to his position as commander. And even more deeply, we see sin and misery arise from pride, a story that goes all the way back to the Fall and all the way to the present day. As we approach a new year, it is vital to see that “Sin is Unoriginal” (2 Samuel 19:41–20:26).

I. The Root of Sin: Pride

II. The Fruit of Sin: Death

III. The Result of Sin: Judgment