Sennacherib's Defiance and Hezekiah's Trial: A Test of Faith

Isaiah 36 vividly illustrates the trials and intimidation that followers of God may face. It calls upon believers to remain steadfast and unyielding in faith even amidst towering threats and disheartening odds. As Hezekiah’s men choose silence over debate, we're reminded that silence can be a powerful tool against taunts and fear, showing unshaken faith in God's providence.

The Assyrian Invasion (Verses 1-3)

In the fourteenth year of Hezekiah's reign, King Sennacherib of Assyria advances against all the fortified cities of Judah, capturing them. In response, Hezekiah sends Eliakim, Shebna, and Joah to meet Rabshakeh, the Assyrian king's field commander, at the conduit of the upper pool.

Rabshakeh’s Challenge (Verses 4-10)

Rabshakeh defiantly questions the foundation of Judah's confidence, suggesting their trust in Egypt is futile and challenging Hezekiah's faith in God. He even claims his invasion was prompted by the Lord himself.

Psychological Warfare (Verses 11-20)

Despite requests to speak in Aramaic, Rabshakeh continues in Hebrew, intending to sow fear among the people. He undermines their faith in Hezekiah and the Lord, promising a land of abundance if they surrender, and foretelling their doom if they resist.

Silence Amidst Intimidation (Verses 21-22)

Hezekiah's men, following his instructions, remain silent in the face of Rabshakeh's threats. They tear their clothes in mourning and report back to Hezekiah.

Isaiah 36 chronicles a pivotal episode in the history of Judah, detailing the confrontation between Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, and Hezekiah, the king of Judah. This chapter serves as a profound exploration of faith, courage, and divine reliance amidst fear and intimidation.

Challenge of faith
Political and military conflict
Fear and intimidation
Religious defiance
Trust in God versus reliance on worldly alliancesAssyrian invasion
Psychological warfare
Hezekiah's rule
Prophecy fulfillment
Rabshakeh’s SpeechSennacherib, the king of Assyria
Hezekiah, the king of Judah
Rabshakeh, the chief officer of Sennacharib
Eliakim, son of Hilkiah
Shebna, the scribe
Joah, son of Asaph, the recorderJerusalem
Assyria
The conduit of the upper pool, on the highway to the Washer's Field

1. How does Sennacherib's strategy of psychological warfare reflect tactics used in today's world?

2. Discuss the role of faith and trust in God during times of adversity, as depicted in Isaiah 36.

3. In what ways does Rabshakeh’s speech aim to cause division and fear? How does this relate to modern forms of propaganda?

4. What is the significance of Hezekiah's men remaining silent despite Rabshakeh's taunts?

5. Why does Rabshakeh insist on speaking in Hebrew, despite Eliakim's plea to converse in Aramaic?

6. How might the promise of land and life affect the faith of the people of Judah?

7. How does this chapter illustrate the concept of "faith versus worldly alliances"?

8. In our current society, what could be some "Assyrian threats" that challenge your faith?

9. How do you maintain trust in God when facing overwhelming challenges, as Hezekiah did?

10. What lessons can modern leaders learn from Sennacherib's tactics and Hezekiah's response?

11. How does the tearing of clothes symbolize the emotional turmoil faced by the people of Judah?

12. Discuss the irony of Rabshakeh claiming that the Lord has commissioned him to destroy the land.

13. How does the context of this chapter shape its message about resilience and faith?

14. How does this chapter demonstrate the power of fear and intimidation?

15. Discuss the role of silence as a tool of resistance in Isaiah 36.

16. Compare Rabshakeh's speech to ways in which misinformation is spread in today's society.

17. How does Isaiah 36 influence your perspective on handling fear and intimidation?

18. How would you respond to someone challenging your faith as Rabshakeh did with the people of Judah?

19. How can you apply the lessons learned from Hezekiah's silence to conflicts in your own life?

20. How might you handle a situation where your faith or belief is being ridiculed or publicly doubted?