Isaiah 36:15

Do not let Hezekiah persuade you to trust in the LORD when he says, 'The LORD will surely deliver us; this city will not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria.'

Study Bible

Do not let Hezekiah persuade you
The phrase begins with a warning against the influence of King Hezekiah. In the historical context, Hezekiah was the king of Judah, known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to reform the religious practices of his people. The Hebrew root for "persuade" (פתה, patah) can mean to entice or deceive, suggesting that the speaker, the Assyrian envoy, is attempting to undermine Hezekiah's credibility. This reflects the broader spiritual battle between faith in God and the intimidation tactics of worldly powers.

to trust in the LORD
Trusting in the LORD is a central theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing reliance on God's power and promises rather than human strength or wisdom. The Hebrew word for "trust" (בטח, batach) conveys a sense of security and confidence. In the context of Isaiah, this trust is a call to the people of Judah to remain steadfast in their faith despite the overwhelming threat posed by the Assyrian army. It is a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people, where trust is foundational.

when he says, ‘The LORD will surely deliver us
Hezekiah's declaration of deliverance is rooted in the promises of God. The Hebrew word for "deliver" (נצל, natsal) implies rescue or salvation, often used in contexts where God intervenes on behalf of His people. This assurance of deliverance is not based on human capability but on divine intervention. Historically, this reflects the miraculous deliverance of Jerusalem from the Assyrian siege, as recorded later in Isaiah 37. It serves as a testament to God's faithfulness and power to save.

this city will not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria
The phrase underscores the specific promise of protection for Jerusalem. The "city" refers to Jerusalem, the spiritual and political center of Judah. The "hand of the king of Assyria" symbolizes the oppressive power and military might of the Assyrian empire, which was a dominant force in the ancient Near East. The assurance that the city will not fall into Assyrian hands highlights God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to protect His chosen people against seemingly insurmountable odds. This promise is a call to faith, encouraging believers to trust in God's ultimate control over history and His commitment to His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hezekiah
The king of Judah during the time of the Assyrian invasion. Known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to reform the religious practices of Judah.

2. The LORD
The God of Israel, whom Hezekiah urges the people to trust for deliverance from the Assyrian threat.

3. The King of Assyria
Refers to Sennacherib, the Assyrian king who invaded Judah and laid siege to Jerusalem.

4. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, which was under threat from the Assyrian army.

5. Rabshakeh
The Assyrian field commander who delivered the message to the people of Jerusalem, attempting to undermine their trust in God and Hezekiah.

Teaching Points

Trust in God Over Human Power
Hezekiah's call to trust in the LORD challenges us to place our confidence in God's power rather than in human strength or political alliances.

The Power of Faithful Leadership
Hezekiah's leadership demonstrates the impact a faithful leader can have in encouraging others to trust in God during times of crisis.

God's Sovereignty in Deliverance
The situation underscores God's sovereignty and His ability to deliver His people from seemingly insurmountable threats.

The Danger of Discouragement
Rabshakeh's message serves as a reminder of how external voices can sow doubt and fear, urging us to remain steadfast in our faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat demonstrate his faith in God, and what can we learn from his example?

2. In what ways do we face "Rabshakeh-like" voices in our lives today that challenge our trust in God, and how can we respond?

3. How does the account of Hezekiah and the Assyrian siege encourage us to trust in God's deliverance in our personal struggles?

4. What role does prayer play in Hezekiah's response to the crisis, and how can we apply this to our own lives?

5. How do the events in Isaiah 36-37 illustrate the theme of God's sovereignty, and how can this understanding impact our daily walk with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 18-19
Provides a parallel account of the events described in Isaiah 36, offering additional details about Hezekiah's response and God's deliverance.

Psalm 20:7
Highlights the theme of trusting in the Lord rather than in human strength or military might.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages believers to trust in the Lord with all their heart, a principle Hezekiah exemplified.

Isaiah 37
Describes the outcome of the Assyrian threat and God's miraculous intervention in response to Hezekiah's prayer.