THEOSISAugustine of Hippo
Subsequently, there is a passage concerning the transgressions of his offspring, found in the book of Kings, which appears to be specifically relevant to Solomon. In this account, God proclaims, “If he sin, I will punish him with the rod of men, and with blows of the sons of men; but I will not take away My mercy from him,” indicating that these blows are corrective measures. This is reflected in the declaration, “Touch not My anointed ones” (Psalms 104:15), meaning do not cause offense.
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However, in the Psalm that refers to David, God expresses a similar sentiment: “If his sons forsake My law, and walk not in My commandments; if they break My statutes, and keep not My commandments: I will visit their iniquity with a rod, and their unrighteousness with blows; but My favour I will not take away from him” (Psalms 88:31-34). It is noteworthy that God states “from him” instead of “from them,” even while addressing his sons, which conveys a significant meaning. In Christ, who is the Head of the Church, there is no sin present that requires human discipline while maintaining divine mercy; rather, such sins are found in His body and members, namely, His people. The reference to “his sons” serves to illustrate that what is articulated concerning Him also pertains to His body. Thus, when Saul persecuted His faithful followers, Christ proclaimed from heaven, “Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou Me?” (Acts 9:4).