How was David a ‘man after God’s heart’ if he was a polygamist?

One of the main dividing lines in Christianity is over David’s state before God prior to his repentance. Lutherans have historically said he was living in sin without repentance, and therefore unbelieving. Those who have different theological convictions tend to lionize the man, underplaying the great sin of adultery and murder. But despite David being “a man after God’s own heart,” that cannot refer to holiness, without condemning the holy God, whose heart does not seek after wickedness. It refers rather to God’s love and mercy, which can be sought by those who are quite guilty—if they are forgiven for their great crimes. “Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little” (Luke 7:47). Our God is not just good, he has a tender heart who cares for us in Christ, even when we have committed great wrongs. —ed.