2 Kings 20:8

Now Hezekiah had asked Isaiah, "What will be the sign that the LORD will heal me and that I will go up to the house of the LORD on the third day?"

Study Bible

Now Hezekiah had asked Isaiah
In this opening phrase, we see the proactive nature of King Hezekiah, a ruler of Judah known for his faithfulness to God. The Hebrew root for "asked" (שָׁאַל, sha'al) implies a seeking or inquiring, which reflects Hezekiah's earnest desire for divine guidance. This action underscores the importance of seeking wisdom from God’s prophets, who were His mouthpieces. Historically, Isaiah was a prominent prophet during this period, and his counsel was highly regarded. Hezekiah’s approach to Isaiah demonstrates humility and recognition of the prophet’s role as a mediator between God and man.

What will be the sign
The concept of a "sign" (אוֹת, 'oth) in Hebrew culture often indicated a divine confirmation or assurance of God's promises. In biblical history, signs were given to strengthen faith and provide certainty of God's intervention. Hezekiah's request for a sign is not an indication of doubt but rather a desire for reassurance. This reflects a common biblical theme where God, in His grace, provides signs to His people to affirm His word and promises, as seen in the lives of Gideon and Moses.

that the LORD will heal me
Here, the phrase emphasizes Hezekiah's faith in God's power to heal. The Hebrew word for "heal" (רָפָא, rapha) is often used in the context of physical and spiritual restoration. This reflects the holistic nature of God’s healing, which encompasses both body and soul. Hezekiah’s belief in divine healing is consistent with the biblical narrative that portrays God as Jehovah Rapha, "The Lord who heals." This assurance of healing is a testament to God’s covenant faithfulness and His desire to restore His people.

and that I will go up to the house of the LORD
The "house of the LORD" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, the central place of worship for the Israelites. Going up to the temple signifies not only physical healing but also spiritual restoration and the ability to participate in communal worship. The temple was the heart of Jewish religious life, and Hezekiah’s desire to return there highlights the importance of worship and fellowship with God. This phrase underscores the biblical principle that true healing leads to worship and a renewed relationship with God.

on the third day from now?
The mention of "the third day" is significant in biblical typology, often symbolizing completeness and divine intervention. Throughout Scripture, the third day is associated with pivotal events, such as the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In Hezekiah’s context, it signifies the completion of God’s promise and the assurance of His deliverance. This timeframe emphasizes God’s sovereignty over time and His ability to fulfill His promises precisely as He declares. It serves as a reminder of the hope and restoration that God provides to those who trust in Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hezekiah
The king of Judah who is known for his faithfulness to God and his reforms to restore proper worship. He is facing a life-threatening illness in this passage.

2. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament who serves as God's messenger to Hezekiah, delivering both warnings and promises from the LORD.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who is central to the account as the one who has the power to heal and deliver.

4. The House of the LORD
Refers to the temple in Jerusalem, which is the center of worship and the place where Hezekiah desires to return to worship God.

5. The Sign
A miraculous indication requested by Hezekiah to confirm God's promise of healing and restoration.

Teaching Points

Faith in God's Promises
Hezekiah's request for a sign demonstrates a desire for assurance in God's promises. Believers today can find assurance in God's Word and His faithfulness.

The Role of Signs
While signs can strengthen faith, they should not be the sole basis for belief. True faith rests in the character and promises of God.

Prayer and Healing
Hezekiah's situation encourages believers to bring their needs before God in prayer, trusting in His power to heal and restore according to His will.

Worship as a Priority
Hezekiah's desire to return to the house of the LORD underscores the importance of worship and fellowship with God as central to a believer's life.

God's Sovereignty and Timing
The promise of healing and the specific timing ("on the third day") highlight God's control over circumstances and His perfect timing in fulfilling His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hezekiah's request for a sign reflect his relationship with God, and what can we learn from it about seeking assurance in our faith journey?

2. In what ways does the parallel account in Isaiah 38 enhance our understanding of Hezekiah's faith and God's response?

3. How can we balance the desire for signs with a mature faith that trusts in God's promises without needing constant confirmation?

4. What role does prayer play in seeking God's intervention in our lives, and how can we apply this in our personal situations today?

5. How does Hezekiah's focus on returning to the house of the LORD challenge us to prioritize worship and fellowship with God in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 38
This chapter provides a parallel account of Hezekiah's illness and recovery, offering additional details and insights into his prayer and God's response.

2 Kings 19
The preceding chapter highlights Hezekiah's faith and reliance on God during the Assyrian threat, setting the stage for his trust in God's promise of healing.

John 4:48
Jesus speaks about the need for signs and wonders for belief, which can be related to Hezekiah's request for a sign as a confirmation of God's promise.