2 Chronicles 36:13

He also rebelled against King Nebuchadnezzar, who had made him swear by God. But Zedekiah stiffened his neck and hardened his heart against turning to the LORD, the God of Israel.

Study Bible

He also rebelled
The Hebrew root for "rebelled" is "מָרַד" (marad), which conveys a sense of defiance and insubordination. Historically, this rebellion is significant as it marks a pivotal moment of resistance against Babylonian authority. In a spiritual context, rebellion against divinely appointed authority is seen as rebellion against God Himself, highlighting the gravity of Zedekiah's actions.

against King Nebuchadnezzar
Nebuchadnezzar was the powerful king of Babylon, a dominant empire of the ancient Near East. His role in the biblical narrative is crucial, as he is often seen as an instrument of God's judgment against Judah. The historical context underscores the futility of Zedekiah's rebellion, as Nebuchadnezzar's power was unmatched, and his authority was, in a sense, sanctioned by God for the purpose of disciplining His people.

who had made him take an oath by God
The phrase "take an oath by God" indicates a solemn promise made in the presence of the Almighty, invoking His name as a witness. The Hebrew word for "oath" is "שְׁבוּעָה" (shevu'ah), which implies a binding agreement. Breaking such an oath was not only a political betrayal but a spiritual transgression, reflecting a profound disrespect for the sanctity of God's name and covenant.

Yet he stiffened his neck
The imagery of a "stiff neck" is a common biblical metaphor for stubbornness and obstinacy. The Hebrew expression "קָשָׁה עֹרֶף" (qashah oref) suggests an unwillingness to submit or yield. This phrase paints a vivid picture of Zedekiah's resistance to divine correction, emphasizing the spiritual blindness and pride that led to his downfall.

and hardened his heart
To "harden the heart" is to become insensitive and unresponsive to God's guidance and conviction. The Hebrew term "חָזַק לֵב" (chazaq lev) indicates a deliberate choice to resist God's will. This hardening is a tragic progression from mere rebellion to a complete rejection of God's authority, illustrating the peril of persistent disobedience.

against turning to the LORD
The act of "turning" in Hebrew, "שׁוּב" (shuv), signifies repentance and a return to God. Zedekiah's refusal to turn back to the LORD represents a missed opportunity for redemption and restoration. This phrase serves as a poignant reminder of God's enduring mercy and the open invitation for His people to return to Him, despite their waywardness.

the God of Israel
This title emphasizes the covenant relationship between God and His chosen people, Israel. It underscores God's faithfulness and the special bond He shares with them. Despite Israel's repeated failures, God remains their God, ever willing to forgive and restore. This phrase calls believers to reflect on the steadfast love and patience of God, who desires a reconciled relationship with His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zedekiah
The last king of Judah, who reigned from 597 to 586 BC. He was placed on the throne by Nebuchadnezzar but later rebelled against him.

2. King Nebuchadnezzar
The powerful king of Babylon who conquered Jerusalem and installed Zedekiah as a vassal king. He represents the instrument of God's judgment against Judah.

3. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which fell to Babylon due to its persistent disobedience and idolatry.

4. Oath by God
A solemn promise made by Zedekiah to Nebuchadnezzar, invoking God's name, which he later broke, demonstrating a lack of faithfulness and integrity.

5. Rebellion and Hardening of Heart
Zedekiah's refusal to submit to Nebuchadnezzar and his spiritual stubbornness against God, leading to Judah's downfall.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Keeping Oaths
Breaking an oath, especially one made in God's name, is a serious offense. Christians are called to be people of integrity, keeping their promises and commitments.

Consequences of Rebellion
Zedekiah's rebellion against Nebuchadnezzar, and ultimately against God, led to destruction. Rebellion against God's ordained authority can lead to severe consequences.

Spiritual Stubbornness
Hardening one's heart against God leads to spiritual downfall. Believers should remain open and responsive to God's guidance and correction.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
The fall of Judah under Zedekiah's reign demonstrates God's control over nations and His use of earthly powers to accomplish His purposes.

Repentance and Turning to God
Despite past failures, there is always an opportunity to turn back to God. Zedekiah's account serves as a warning and a call to repentance.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Zedekiah's failure to keep his oath, and how does this apply to our commitments today?

2. How does Zedekiah's rebellion against Nebuchadnezzar reflect a deeper spiritual rebellion against God?

3. In what ways can we identify and address areas of spiritual stubbornness in our own lives?

4. How does the account of Zedekiah illustrate the consequences of ignoring God's warnings through His prophets?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that we remain responsive to God's guidance and avoid the hardening of our hearts?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 17
This chapter provides a parable and explanation of Zedekiah's rebellion against Nebuchadnezzar, highlighting the breach of covenant and its consequences.

Jeremiah 52
Offers a historical account of Zedekiah's reign and the fall of Jerusalem, emphasizing the fulfillment of prophetic warnings.

Exodus 7:13
The hardening of Pharaoh's heart parallels Zedekiah's spiritual stubbornness, illustrating a recurring theme of resistance to God's will.

Proverbs 29:1
Warns about the consequences of hardening one's heart, which aligns with Zedekiah's fate.