2 Chronicles 28:16

At that time King Ahaz sent for help from the king of Assyria.

Study Bible

At that time
This phrase situates the events within a specific historical context. The time referred to is during the reign of King Ahaz of Judah, a period marked by political instability and spiritual decline. Ahaz reigned from approximately 732 to 716 BC. This was a time when the Northern Kingdom of Israel and the Southern Kingdom of Judah were under threat from surrounding nations, particularly the Assyrians and the Arameans.

King Ahaz
Ahaz was the twelfth king of Judah and is often remembered for his unfaithfulness to God. He is described in the Bible as a king who did not do what was right in the eyes of the Lord, following the detestable practices of the nations the Lord had driven out before the Israelites. His reign is characterized by idolatry and alliances with foreign powers, which were contrary to the covenantal faithfulness expected of the Davidic kings.

sent for help
This action reflects Ahaz's lack of faith in God and his reliance on human alliances for security. Instead of seeking the Lord's guidance and protection, Ahaz turned to political and military solutions. This decision is a significant departure from the example set by earlier kings like David, who sought the Lord's counsel in times of trouble. It also contrasts with the prophetic counsel given by Isaiah, who urged trust in God rather than foreign alliances (Isaiah 7:4-9).

from the king of Assyria
The king of Assyria at this time was Tiglath-Pileser III, a powerful ruler known for his military conquests and expansion of the Assyrian Empire. Assyria was a dominant force in the ancient Near East, and its kings were often seen as formidable allies or enemies. By seeking help from Assyria, Ahaz was aligning Judah with a nation that would later become a significant threat to both Israel and Judah. This alliance had long-term consequences, as it eventually led to Assyrian dominance over the region and the eventual fall of the Northern Kingdom of Israel in 722 BC.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Ahaz
The king of Judah during this period, known for his unfaithfulness to God and reliance on foreign powers rather than seeking the Lord's guidance.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which Ahaz ruled. During his reign, Judah faced significant threats from neighboring nations.

3. Assyria
A powerful empire during this time, known for its military strength and expansionist policies. Ahaz sought their assistance against his enemies.

4. Syria and Israel
These were the northern neighbors of Judah, who posed a threat to Ahaz's kingdom, prompting him to seek Assyrian aid.

5. The Syro-Ephraimite War
The conflict involving Syria and the northern kingdom of Israel (Ephraim) against Judah, which led Ahaz to seek Assyrian intervention.

Teaching Points

Reliance on God vs. Human Alliances
Ahaz's decision to seek help from Assyria highlights the danger of relying on human alliances rather than trusting in God's provision and protection.

Consequences of Unfaithfulness
Ahaz's unfaithfulness led to negative consequences for Judah, serving as a warning about the spiritual and practical repercussions of turning away from God.

The Role of Fear in Decision-Making
Fear can drive us to make poor decisions, as seen in Ahaz's choice to seek Assyrian help. Believers are encouraged to seek God's wisdom and peace in times of fear.

God's Faithfulness Despite Human Failure
Despite Ahaz's failures, God's promises to David's lineage remained. This underscores God's faithfulness even when His people are unfaithful.

Bible Study Questions

1. What motivated King Ahaz to seek help from the king of Assyria, and how does this reflect on his faith in God?

2. How does Ahaz's alliance with Assyria compare to the biblical principle of trusting in God rather than in human strength? (Consider Isaiah 31:1)

3. In what ways can fear influence our decisions today, and how can we apply biblical principles to overcome fear?

4. Reflect on a time when you faced a difficult decision. How did your faith influence your choice, and what can you learn from Ahaz's example?

5. How does the account of Ahaz and his reliance on Assyria challenge us to examine our own sources of security and trust?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 7
This chapter provides a prophetic context to Ahaz's reign, where Isaiah offers a sign from God to Ahaz, which he rejects, preferring to rely on Assyria.

2 Kings 16
Offers a parallel account of Ahaz's reign, detailing his idolatry and political alliances, including his appeal to Assyria.

Hosea 5:13
Illustrates the futility of seeking help from Assyria, as the prophet Hosea warns Israel and Judah about relying on foreign powers instead of God.