2 Kings 20:16

Then Isaiah said to Hezekiah, "Hear the word of the LORD:

Study Bible

Then Isaiah said
The phrase introduces the prophet Isaiah, a central figure in the narrative of 2 Kings. Isaiah, whose name means "Yahweh is salvation," serves as a mouthpiece for God, delivering divine messages to the kings of Judah. His role as a prophet is crucial, as he bridges the gap between God and His people. Historically, Isaiah's ministry occurred during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, marked by political upheaval and threats from powerful empires like Assyria. His presence in this verse underscores the importance of prophetic guidance in times of crisis.

to Hezekiah
Hezekiah, the king of Judah, is a pivotal character known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to reform the religious practices of his kingdom. His name means "Yahweh strengthens," reflecting his reliance on God during his reign. Hezekiah's interaction with Isaiah highlights the king's openness to divine counsel, a trait that sets him apart from many of his predecessors. Historically, Hezekiah's reign was marked by significant challenges, including the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem, which tested his faith and leadership.

Hear
The command to "hear" is a call to attention and obedience. In Hebrew, the word "hear" (שָׁמַע, shama) implies not just listening but also understanding and acting upon what is heard. This reflects the biblical principle that true hearing involves a response. In the context of this verse, Hezekiah is urged to listen carefully to the message from God, indicating the gravity and importance of the prophetic word.

the word of the LORD
This phrase signifies the divine message that Isaiah is about to deliver. "The word of the LORD" (דְּבַר־יְהוָה, devar-Yahweh) is a powerful expression, emphasizing that the message originates from God Himself. In the biblical context, the "word of the LORD" is authoritative and carries the weight of divine truth. It is not merely human opinion but a revelation from God, demanding respect and adherence. Theologically, this underscores the belief in the Bible as the inspired word of God, a foundational tenet of Conservative Christianity. The phrase also connects to the broader biblical narrative, where God's word is seen as active and effective, accomplishing His purposes throughout history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah served as a messenger of God, delivering His words to the kings of Judah, including Hezekiah. His role was to convey God's messages, often concerning judgment and redemption.

2. Hezekiah
The king of Judah during a time of both spiritual reform and political turmoil. Hezekiah is known for his faithfulness to God, but also for his moments of weakness and pride.

3. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who is the central figure in this passage, delivering a message through His prophet Isaiah.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Hezekiah reigned. It was a place of both spiritual revival and impending judgment due to the people's disobedience.

5. Babylon
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, Babylon is the implied future threat, as Isaiah's message to Hezekiah concerns the eventual Babylonian captivity.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Listening to God's Word
Hezekiah's encounter with Isaiah underscores the necessity of heeding God's messages, even when they are difficult to hear. Believers today must prioritize listening to God's Word through Scripture and prayer.

The Consequences of Pride
Hezekiah's pride led to a prophecy of judgment. This serves as a warning to guard against pride and to remain humble before God, recognizing that all we have is from Him.

God's Sovereignty and Justice
The prophecy delivered by Isaiah highlights God's sovereignty over nations and His justice in dealing with sin. Believers can trust in God's righteous plans, even when they involve discipline.

The Role of Prophets and Prophecy
Isaiah's role as a prophet reminds us of the importance of prophetic voices in guiding and correcting God's people. Today, we can seek guidance through Scripture and the Holy Spirit.

The Hope of Redemption
While the prophecy foretells judgment, it also fits into the larger biblical account of redemption. God's discipline is always aimed at restoration and drawing His people back to Himself.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hezekiah's response to Isaiah's prophecy reflect his spiritual state, and what can we learn from it about responding to God's correction?

2. In what ways does pride manifest in our lives today, and how can we actively combat it to avoid the consequences seen in Hezekiah's account?

3. How does understanding God's sovereignty and justice help us trust Him during times of personal or national difficulty?

4. What role does prophecy play in the life of a believer today, and how can we discern true prophetic messages in our context?

5. How can the hope of redemption and restoration, even in the face of judgment, encourage us in our walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 20:17-18
These verses continue the prophecy, detailing the future Babylonian captivity, which connects to the broader account of Judah's eventual exile due to disobedience.

Isaiah 39:5-7
This passage parallels 2 Kings 20:16-18, providing additional context and emphasizing the consequences of Hezekiah's actions.

2 Chronicles 32:24-31
This account provides insight into Hezekiah's pride and the testing of his heart, which led to the prophecy delivered by Isaiah.

Jeremiah 25:11-12
This prophecy foretells the seventy-year Babylonian captivity, connecting to the consequences outlined in Isaiah's message to Hezekiah.