2 Chronicles 28:16

At that time King Ahaz sent for help from the king of Assyria.

Study Bible

At that time
This phrase situates the events within a specific historical context. The period referred to is during the reign of King Ahaz of Judah, a time marked by political instability and spiritual decline. Historically, this was a tumultuous era for Judah, as the kingdom faced threats from neighboring nations. The phrase underscores the urgency and desperation of the situation, as Ahaz sought external assistance rather than relying on God. This reflects a broader theme in the Old Testament where reliance on foreign powers often led to negative consequences for Israel and Judah.

King Ahaz
Ahaz was the twelfth king of Judah, known for his idolatrous practices and lack of faithfulness to God. His reign is characterized by a departure from the religious reforms of his predecessors. The name "Ahaz" in Hebrew means "he has grasped" or "he has held," which is ironic given his failure to hold onto the faith of his forefathers. Ahaz's reign is a cautionary tale about the dangers of abandoning God's commandments and seeking security in worldly powers.

sent for help
This action indicates a reliance on human alliances rather than divine intervention. The Hebrew root for "sent" (שָׁלַח, shalach) often implies a deliberate and purposeful action. Ahaz's decision to seek help from Assyria reveals his lack of trust in God's ability to deliver Judah. This reliance on Assyria would later lead to Judah's subjugation and further spiritual decline, illustrating the biblical principle that true security comes from God alone.

from the king of Assyria
The Assyrian Empire was a dominant power in the ancient Near East, known for its military might and expansionist policies. By seeking help from the king of Assyria, Ahaz was aligning Judah with a pagan nation, contrary to God's commands for Israel to remain separate and holy. This alliance with Assyria is historically significant, as it marked the beginning of Judah's vassalage to foreign powers, ultimately leading to its downfall. Theologically, this serves as a reminder of the consequences of forsaking God's protection for worldly alliances.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Ahaz
The king of Judah during this period, known for his unfaithfulness to God and reliance on foreign powers rather than seeking the Lord's guidance.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which Ahaz ruled. During his reign, Judah faced significant threats from neighboring nations.

3. Assyria
A powerful empire during this time, known for its military strength and expansionist policies. Ahaz sought their assistance against his enemies.

4. Syria and Israel
These were the northern neighbors of Judah, who posed a threat to Ahaz's kingdom, prompting him to seek Assyrian aid.

5. The Syro-Ephraimite War
The conflict involving Syria and the northern kingdom of Israel (Ephraim) against Judah, which led Ahaz to seek Assyrian intervention.

Teaching Points

Reliance on God vs. Human Alliances
Ahaz's decision to seek help from Assyria highlights the danger of relying on human alliances rather than trusting in God's provision and protection.

Consequences of Unfaithfulness
Ahaz's unfaithfulness led to negative consequences for Judah, serving as a warning about the spiritual and practical repercussions of turning away from God.

The Role of Fear in Decision-Making
Fear can drive us to make poor decisions, as seen in Ahaz's choice to seek Assyrian help. Believers are encouraged to seek God's wisdom and peace in times of fear.

God's Faithfulness Despite Human Failure
Despite Ahaz's failures, God's promises to David's lineage remained. This underscores God's faithfulness even when His people are unfaithful.

Bible Study Questions

1. What motivated King Ahaz to seek help from the king of Assyria, and how does this reflect on his faith in God?

2. How does Ahaz's alliance with Assyria compare to the biblical principle of trusting in God rather than in human strength? (Consider Isaiah 31:1)

3. In what ways can fear influence our decisions today, and how can we apply biblical principles to overcome fear?

4. Reflect on a time when you faced a difficult decision. How did your faith influence your choice, and what can you learn from Ahaz's example?

5. How does the account of Ahaz and his reliance on Assyria challenge us to examine our own sources of security and trust?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 7
This chapter provides a prophetic context to Ahaz's reign, where Isaiah offers a sign from God to Ahaz, which he rejects, preferring to rely on Assyria.

2 Kings 16
Offers a parallel account of Ahaz's reign, detailing his idolatry and political alliances, including his appeal to Assyria.

Hosea 5:13
Illustrates the futility of seeking help from Assyria, as the prophet Hosea warns Israel and Judah about relying on foreign powers instead of God.