2 Chronicles 32:15

So now, do not let Hezekiah deceive you, and do not let him mislead you like this. Do not believe him, for no god of any nation or kingdom has been able to deliver his people from my hand or from the hand of my fathers. How much less will your God deliver you from my hand!"

Study Bible

So now
This phrase serves as a transition, indicating urgency and immediacy. In the Hebrew context, it suggests a pivotal moment, a call to decision. The speaker, Sennacherib, is attempting to create a sense of inevitability and pressure, urging the people to act quickly against Hezekiah's counsel. Historically, this reflects the Assyrian strategy of psychological warfare, aiming to demoralize and intimidate.

do not let Hezekiah deceive you
The word "deceive" in Hebrew is "nasha," which means to lead astray or cause to err. Sennacherib is casting doubt on Hezekiah's leadership and faith in God. This reflects a common tactic of undermining trust in leadership to weaken resolve. Hezekiah, however, is known for his faithfulness to God, contrasting the deceit Sennacherib accuses him of.

and do not let him mislead you like this
The phrase "mislead you" further emphasizes the accusation of deception. The Hebrew root "shagah" implies causing someone to wander or stray. Sennacherib is suggesting that Hezekiah's faith in God is a dangerous diversion from reality. This highlights the spiritual battle between faith in God and the fear of earthly powers.

Do not believe him
Here, belief is central. The Hebrew "aman" means to support or confirm. Sennacherib is challenging the people's faith, urging them to place their trust in what seems tangible and powerful—the Assyrian empire—rather than in the unseen God of Israel. This is a direct attack on the covenant relationship between God and His people.

for no god of any nation or kingdom
Sennacherib's statement reflects the polytheistic worldview of the time, where gods were seen as territorial and limited. The Assyrians had conquered many nations, each with their own deities, and none had been able to withstand them. This sets the stage for a demonstration of the uniqueness and supremacy of the God of Israel.

has been able to deliver his people from my hand or the hand of my fathers
The phrase "deliver his people" is significant. The Hebrew "natsal" means to snatch away or rescue. Sennacherib is boasting of his and his ancestors' military successes, implying that no divine intervention has ever thwarted their conquests. This is a direct challenge to God's power and faithfulness.

How much less will your God deliver you from my hand!
This rhetorical question is meant to instill doubt and fear. Sennacherib is belittling the God of Israel, suggesting that He is weaker than the gods of other nations. This is a moment of profound spiritual confrontation, where the faith of God's people is tested. Historically, this sets the stage for God's miraculous deliverance, demonstrating His sovereignty and power over all nations and their gods.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hezekiah
The King of Judah, known for his faithfulness to God and his reforms to restore proper worship in the kingdom.

2. Sennacherib
The King of Assyria, who invaded Judah and besieged Jerusalem, challenging the power of the God of Israel.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, under siege by the Assyrian army during this event.

4. Assyrian Army
The powerful military force led by Sennacherib, known for its conquests and intimidation tactics.

5. God of Israel
The one true God whom Hezekiah and the people of Judah worship and trust for deliverance.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Despite the threats and intimidation from powerful adversaries, believers are called to trust in God's ability to deliver and protect.

The Danger of Deception
Sennacherib's message aimed to sow doubt and fear. Christians must be vigilant against voices that challenge their faith and trust in God.

God's Faithfulness in History
Reflect on past instances of God's deliverance as a source of encouragement and strength in current trials.

Prayer as a Response to Crisis
Hezekiah's response to the threat was to seek God in prayer, demonstrating the importance of turning to God in times of trouble.

The Power of God's Word
The fulfillment of God's promises, as seen in the deliverance of Jerusalem, underscores the reliability and authority of Scripture.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hezekiah's response to Sennacherib's threats serve as a model for handling crises in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we guard against deception and maintain our faith in God's promises?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's deliverance. How does this memory strengthen your faith today?

4. How can the account of Jerusalem's deliverance encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty over nations and rulers?

5. What role does prayer play in your life when facing challenges, and how can you cultivate a more prayerful response to difficulties?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 36-37
These chapters provide a parallel account of Sennacherib's invasion and the miraculous deliverance of Jerusalem, emphasizing God's power and faithfulness.

2 Kings 18-19
Another parallel account that highlights Hezekiah's prayer and God's response, showcasing the importance of faith and reliance on God.

Psalm 46
A psalm of trust in God's protection, often associated with the deliverance of Jerusalem from the Assyrian threat.

Exodus 14
The deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt, illustrating God's power to save His people against overwhelming odds.