2 Chronicles 28:20

Then Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria came to Ahaz but afflicted him rather than strengthening him.

Study Bible

Then Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria
Tiglath-pileser III was a powerful Assyrian ruler who reigned from 745 to 727 BC. He is known for expanding the Assyrian Empire and implementing significant military and administrative reforms. His interactions with the kingdoms of Israel and Judah are well-documented in both biblical and Assyrian records. The Assyrian Empire, located in what is now northern Iraq, was a dominant force in the ancient Near East, and its kings often exerted influence over smaller neighboring states, including Israel and Judah.

came to Ahaz
Ahaz was the king of Judah from approximately 732 to 716 BC. His reign is noted for its political and religious challenges. Ahaz sought the help of Tiglath-pileser during a time of crisis, specifically when Judah was threatened by the combined forces of Israel and Aram (Syria). This alliance against Judah is detailed in 2 Kings 16 and Isaiah 7. Ahaz's decision to seek Assyrian assistance reflects his lack of faith in God's protection, as he chose to rely on a foreign power rather than trust in the Lord.

but afflicted him rather than strengthening him
Instead of providing the support Ahaz hoped for, Tiglath-pileser imposed heavy burdens on Judah. This affliction likely included tribute demands and political subjugation, which weakened Judah's autonomy. The Assyrian king's actions fulfilled the warnings given by the prophet Isaiah, who cautioned against relying on foreign alliances (Isaiah 7:17-25). This outcome serves as a reminder of the dangers of placing trust in human powers rather than in God. The affliction of Ahaz by Tiglath-pileser can be seen as a form of divine judgment for Ahaz's unfaithfulness and idolatry, as he led Judah away from the worship of Yahweh.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tiglath-pileser III
The king of Assyria during the reign of Ahaz. Known for his military campaigns and expansion of the Assyrian Empire, he played a significant role in the political landscape of the Near East during this period.

2. Ahaz
The king of Judah who reigned from approximately 732 to 716 BC. He is noted for his unfaithfulness to God, including idolatry and seeking help from foreign powers rather than relying on the Lord.

3. Assyria
A powerful empire in the ancient Near East, known for its military prowess and expansionist policies. Assyria was a dominant force during the time of Ahaz.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of the Israelites, which Ahaz ruled. During his reign, Judah faced significant threats from neighboring nations.

5. Trouble Instead of Help
This phrase highlights the outcome of Ahaz's alliance with Assyria, which brought more harm than benefit to Judah.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Misplaced Trust
Ahaz's decision to seek help from Assyria rather than God serves as a cautionary tale about placing trust in worldly powers instead of divine providence.

Consequences of Unfaithfulness
Ahaz's unfaithfulness to God led to negative consequences for Judah, reminding us of the importance of remaining faithful to God's commands.

The Illusion of Worldly Alliances
Alliances with worldly powers may seem beneficial but can lead to unforeseen troubles, as seen in Ahaz's experience with Assyria.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
Despite human actions and alliances, God's sovereignty remains supreme, and His plans will ultimately prevail.

The Call to Repentance and Faith
Ahaz's account encourages believers to repent from unfaithfulness and place their faith in God, who is the true source of help and security.

Bible Study Questions

1. What motivated Ahaz to seek help from Tiglath-pileser, and how does this reflect on his faith in God?

2. How does the outcome of Ahaz's alliance with Assyria serve as a warning for us today regarding where we place our trust?

3. In what ways can we identify and avoid the temptation to rely on worldly solutions instead of seeking God's guidance?

4. How do the actions of Ahaz contrast with the teachings of the prophets, such as Isaiah and Hosea, regarding trust in God?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a difficult situation. How can Ahaz's account inform your approach to seeking help and guidance in the future?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 16
Provides a parallel account of Ahaz's reign and his alliance with Assyria, offering additional context to his actions and their consequences.

Isaiah 7
Describes the prophet Isaiah's interactions with Ahaz, including the prophecy of Immanuel, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God rather than foreign alliances.

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.