So now, was it apart from the LORD that I have come up against this land to destroy it? The LORD Himself said to me, 'Go up against this land and destroy it.'" So nowThis phrase marks a transition, indicating a shift in the narrative or argument. In the context of Isaiah 36, it introduces the words of the Assyrian field commander, Rabshakeh, as he addresses the people of Jerusalem. The phrase suggests immediacy and urgency, drawing attention to the present situation. Historically, this was a time of great tension as the Assyrian army threatened Judah, and the phrase underscores the pressing nature of the Assyrian threat. have I really come up against this land to destroy it without the LORD’s approval? The LORD Himself said to me ‘Go up against this land and destroy it.’” Persons / Places / Events 1. SennacheribThe king of Assyria, who sent his field commander to Jerusalem to demand its surrender. 2. Rabshakeh The field commander of the Assyrian army, who delivered the message to the people of Jerusalem. 3. Hezekiah The king of Judah during this time, known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to reform the religious practices of Judah. 4. Jerusalem The capital city of Judah, under siege by the Assyrian army. 5. The LORD (Yahweh) The God of Israel, whose will and approval are central to the events described. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty Over NationsGod can use even pagan nations to accomplish His purposes. This reminds us that God is in control of world events, and His plans are beyond human understanding. Discernment in Spiritual Claims Not every claim of divine endorsement is true. We must seek God's wisdom and discernment to understand His will, especially when faced with conflicting messages. Faith in Times of Crisis Like Hezekiah, we are called to trust in God during times of crisis. Our faith should be rooted in God's promises and His past faithfulness. The Importance of Prayer and Seeking God Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat was to seek God in prayer. This teaches us the importance of turning to God first in our times of need. God's Deliverance and Protection The account of Jerusalem's deliverance serves as a reminder of God's power to protect and deliver His people, encouraging us to rely on Him for our safety and security. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the claim of the Assyrian commander in Isaiah 36:10 challenge the faith of the people of Jerusalem, and how can we apply this to challenges to our faith today?2. In what ways does the account of Hezekiah and the Assyrian siege encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty over world events? 3. How can we discern whether a message or action is truly from God, as seen in the Assyrian commander's claim of divine approval? 4. What role does prayer play in Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat, and how can we incorporate similar practices in our own lives? 5. How does the theme of God's deliverance in Isaiah 36 relate to other biblical accounts of God's protection, and how can this strengthen our faith in His promises? Connections to Other Scriptures 2 Kings 18-19Provides a parallel account of the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem and the interactions between Hezekiah and the Assyrian envoys. Isaiah 10:5-6 Discusses Assyria as the rod of God's anger, used to discipline nations, including Israel. 2 Chronicles 32 Offers another perspective on Hezekiah's reign and the Assyrian threat, highlighting Hezekiah's faith and God's deliverance. Romans 8:28 Relates to the theme of God's sovereignty and His ability to work through all circumstances for the good of those who love Him.
People Asaph, Eliakim, Hezekiah, Hilkiah, Isaiah, Joah, Pharaoh, Rabshakeh, Sennacherib, ShebnaPlaces Arpad, Assyria, Egypt, Hamath, Jerusalem, Lachish, Samaria, Sepharvaim, Washer's FieldTopics Approval, Attack, Authority, Destroy, Destroyed, Destruction, Hast, Lord's, March, Moreover, WasteDictionary of Bible Themes Isaiah 36:1-18Library A Sermon on Isaiah xxvi. By John Knox. [In the Prospectus of our Publication it was stated, that one discourse, at least, would be given in each number. A strict adherence to this arrangement, however, it is found, would exclude from our pages some of the most talented discourses of our early Divines; and it is therefore deemed expedient to depart from it as occasion may require. The following Sermon will occupy two numbers, and we hope, that from its intrinsic value, its historical interest, and the illustrious name of its author, it … John Knox—The Pulpit Of The Reformation, Nos. 1, 2 and 3. Jesus Heals Multitudes Beside the Sea of Galilee. Sennacherib (705-681 B. C. ) The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: Isaiah Links Isaiah 36:10 NIVIsaiah 36:10 NLT Isaiah 36:10 ESV Isaiah 36:10 NASB Isaiah 36:10 KJV Isaiah 36:10 Commentaries Bible Hub |