But Hezekiah said to Isaiah, "The word of the LORD that you have spoken is good." For he thought, "Will there not at least be peace and security in my lifetime?" But Hezekiah said to IsaiahThis phrase introduces us to a moment of dialogue between King Hezekiah and the prophet Isaiah. Hezekiah, a king of Judah, is known for his faithfulness to God, as seen in earlier chapters. The Hebrew root for "said" (אָמַר, 'amar) often implies a declaration or a thoughtful response, indicating Hezekiah's reflective nature. Historically, Isaiah was a prominent prophet during Hezekiah's reign, serving as a divine messenger. This interaction underscores the importance of prophetic counsel in the governance of Judah, reflecting a theocratic society where divine guidance was sought in matters of state. The word of the LORD
This phrase signifies a divine message or prophecy. In Hebrew, "word" (דָּבָר, dabar) can mean a matter, thing, or speech, emphasizing the weight and authority of what is spoken by God. The "LORD" (יהוה, Yahweh) is the covenant name of God, highlighting His eternal and unchanging nature. This underscores the belief that God's words are not just informative but transformative, carrying the power to shape history and individual destinies. that you have spoken
Here, the focus is on the transmission of God's message through Isaiah. The act of speaking (דִּבֶּר, dibber) in Hebrew often implies a formal declaration. This highlights the role of prophets as intermediaries who faithfully convey God's will to His people. It also reflects the trust placed in Isaiah as a true prophet, whose words are considered an extension of God's own voice. is good
Hezekiah's response to the prophecy is intriguing. The Hebrew word for "good" (טוֹב, tov) can mean pleasant, agreeable, or beneficial. Despite the prophecy's foreboding nature, Hezekiah perceives it as favorable, perhaps because it assures him of peace during his lifetime. This reflects a complex understanding of divine judgment and mercy, where immediate personal relief is seen as a blessing, even amidst future challenges. For he thought
This phrase provides insight into Hezekiah's internal reasoning. The Hebrew root for "thought" (אָמַר, 'amar) is the same as "said," suggesting a deep, internal dialogue. It reveals the human tendency to weigh divine pronouncements against personal circumstances, highlighting the tension between self-interest and broader spiritual realities. Will there not at least be peace and security in my lifetime?
Hezekiah's contemplation reveals a focus on immediate stability. "Peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) in Hebrew encompasses completeness, welfare, and tranquility, while "security" (אֱמֶת, emet) implies truth, faithfulness, and reliability. This reflects a desire for a stable and prosperous reign, a common aspiration for ancient Near Eastern kings. It also raises questions about the nature of true peace and security, challenging readers to consider whether these are found in temporal circumstances or in a deeper trust in God's eternal promises. Persons / Places / Events 1. HezekiahThe King of Judah, known for his faithfulness to God and reforms to restore proper worship. He is the central figure in this passage, responding to a prophecy about the future of his kingdom. 2. IsaiahA major prophet in the Old Testament who served as God's messenger to Hezekiah. He delivered the prophecy concerning the future downfall of Judah and the Babylonian captivity. 3. JudahThe southern kingdom of Israel, over which Hezekiah reigned. This passage is set during a time of political and spiritual challenges for the nation. 4. BabylonThe rising power that would eventually conquer Judah and take its people into exile, as prophesied by Isaiah. 5. Prophecy of CaptivityThe event where Isaiah foretells the future Babylonian captivity of Judah, which Hezekiah accepts with a focus on his own lifetime. Teaching Points The Danger of Short-SightednessHezekiah's response highlights a tendency to focus on immediate comfort rather than long-term consequences. Believers are encouraged to consider the future impact of their actions and decisions. Trust in God's SovereigntyDespite the troubling prophecy, Hezekiah acknowledges the word of the LORD as good. This teaches us to trust in God's plans, even when they are difficult to understand. Intergenerational ResponsibilityHezekiah's acceptance of peace in his lifetime without concern for future generations challenges us to think beyond our own lives and invest in the spiritual and physical well-being of those who come after us. The Role of ProphecyThis passage illustrates the role of prophecy in the Bible as a tool for warning, guidance, and revealing God's plans. It encourages believers to heed prophetic messages and seek understanding. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Hezekiah's response to Isaiah's prophecy reflect his priorities, and what can we learn from this about our own priorities? 2. In what ways can we ensure that our decisions today positively impact future generations, both spiritually and materially? 3. How does Hezekiah's acceptance of God's word as "good" challenge us to trust in God's sovereignty, even when facing difficult truths? 4. What are some modern examples of short-sightedness in decision-making, and how can we apply biblical principles to avoid them? 5. How can we balance the need for personal peace and security with the call to care for others, as seen in Philippians 2:4? Connections to Other Scriptures 2 Kings 18-19Provides context for Hezekiah's reign, his faithfulness, and his interactions with Isaiah, including the miraculous deliverance from the Assyrians. Isaiah 39A parallel account of this event, offering additional insights into Hezekiah's response and the prophecy's implications. 2 Chronicles 32Chronicles Hezekiah's reign, including his achievements and the challenges he faced, providing a broader view of his character and leadership. Philippians 2:4Encourages believers to look not only to their own interests but also to the interests of others, contrasting Hezekiah's self-focused response. People Ahaz, Amoz, Baladan, Berodachbaladan, David, Hezekiah, Isaiah, ManassehPlaces Ararat, Assyria, BabylonTopics Hast, Hezekiah, Hezeki'ah, Isaiah, Isn't, Lifetime, Moreover, Peace, Replied, Righteousness, Security, Spoken, TruthDictionary of Bible Themes 2 Kings 20:19 5940 searching 2 Kings 20:12-19 4215 Babylon
6701 peace, search for Library An Old-Fashioned Home
TEXT: "What have they seen in thy house?"--2 Kings 20:15. If you will tell me what is in your own house by your own choice I will tell you the story of your home life and will be able to inform you whether yours is a home in which there is harmony and peace or confusion and despair. Let me read the names of the guests in your guest book, allow me to study the titles of the books in your library in which you have special delight, permit me to scan your magazines which you particularly like, allow …
J. Wilbur Chapman—And Judas IscariotSennacherib (705-681 B. C. )
The struggle of Sennacherib with Judaea and Egypt--Destruction of Babylon. Sennacherib either failed to inherit his father's good fortune, or lacked his ability.* He was not deficient in military genius, nor in the energy necessary to withstand the various enemies who rose against him at widely removed points of his frontier, but he had neither the adaptability of character nor the delicate tact required to manage successfully the heterogeneous elements combined under his sway. * The two principal …
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 8 God's Sovereignty Defined
"Thine, O LORD, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is Thine; Thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and Thou art exalted as Head above all" (1 Chron. 29:11). The Sovereignty of God is an expression that once was generally understood. It was a phrase commonly used in religious literature. It was a theme frequently expounded in the pulpit. It was a truth which brought comfort to many hearts, and gave virility and stability …
Arthur W. Pink—The Sovereignty of God That for the Most Part the Occupation of Government Dissipates the Solidity of the Mind.
Often the care of government, when undertaken, distracts the heart in divers directions; and one is found unequal to dealing with particular things, while with confused mind divided among many. Whence a certain wise man providently dissuades, saying, My son, meddle not with many matters (Ecclus. xi. 10); because, that is, the mind is by no means collected on the plan of any single work while parted among divers. And, when it is drawn abroad by unwonted care, it is emptied of the solidity of inward …
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great The World, Created by God, Still Cherished and Protected by Him. Each and all of Its Parts Governed by his Providence.
1. Even the wicked, under the guidance of carnal sense, acknowledge that God is the Creator. The godly acknowledge not this only, but that he is a most wise and powerful governor and preserver of all created objects. In so doing, they lean on the Word of God, some passages from which are produced. 2. Refutation of the Epicureans, who oppose fortune and fortuitous causes to Divine Providence, as taught in Scripture. The sun, a bright manifestation of Divine Providence. 3. Figment of the Sophists as …
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion Interpretation of Prophecy.
1. The scriptural idea of prophecy is widely removed from that of human foresight and presentiment. It is that of a revelation made by the Holy Spirit respecting the future, always in the interest of God's kingdom. It is no part of the plan of prophecy to gratify vain curiosity respecting "the times or the seasons which the Father hath put in his own power." Acts 1:7. "Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God"--this is its key-note. In its form it is carefully adapted to this great end. …
E. P. Barrows—Companion to the Bible The Historical Books.
1. In the Pentateuch we have the establishment of the Theocracy, with the preparatory and accompanying history pertaining to it. The province of the historical books is to unfold its practiced working, and to show how, under the divine superintendence and guidance, it accomplished the end for which it was given. They contain, therefore, primarily, a history of God's dealings with the covenant people under the economy which he had imposed upon them. They look at the course of human events on the …
E. P. Barrows—Companion to the Bible The Kingdom of Judah.
II K. 18-25; II Chron. 28-36. Note: This period covers the time from the fail of Israel to the fall of Judah. It begins in the sixth year of the reign of Hezekiah, whose name is given as the first king of the period since most of his reign was in this instead of the former period. The Kings of this Period. 13. Hezekiah, 2 K. 18:1-20-21; 2 Chron. 29:1-32:33. Reigned 29 years and died. 14. Manasseh, 2 K. 21:1-18; 2 Chron. 33:1-20. Reigned 55 year and died. 15. Amon, 2 K. 21:19-26; 2 Chron. 33:20-25. …
Josiah Blake Tidwell—The Bible Period by Period The Christian Struggling under Great and Heavy Affliction.
1. Here it is advised--that afflictions should only be expected.--2. That the righteous hand of God should be acknowledged in them when they come.--3. That they should be borne with patience.--4. That the divine conduct in them should be cordially approved.--5. That thankfulness should be maintained in the midst of trials.--6. That the design of afflictions should be diligently inquired into, and all proper assistance taken in discovering it.--7. That, when it is discovered, it should humbly be complied …
Philip Doddridge—The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul Of the Sacraments.
1. Of the sacraments in general. A sacrament defined. 2. Meaning of the word sacrament. 3. Definition explained. Why God seals his promises to us by sacraments. 4. The word which ought to accompany the element, that the sacrament may be complete. 5. Error of those who attempt to separate the word, or promise of God, from the element. 6. Why sacraments are called Signs of the Covenant. 7. They are such signs, though the wicked should receive them, but are signs of grace only to believers. 8. Objections …
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion Use to be Made of the Doctrine of Providence.
Sections. 1. Summary of the doctrine of Divine Providence. 1. It embraces the future and the past. 2. It works by means, without means, and against means. 3. Mankind, and particularly the Church, the object of special care. 4. The mode of administration usually secret, but always just. This last point more fully considered. 2. The profane denial that the world is governed by the secret counsel of God, refuted by passages of Scripture. Salutary counsel. 3. This doctrine, as to the secret counsel of …
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion Meditations of the True Manner of Practising Piety on the Sabbath-Day.
Almighty God will have himself worshipped, not only in a private manner by private persons and families, but also in a more public sort, of all the godly joined together in a visible church; that by this means he may be known not only to be the God and Lord of every Singular person, but also of the creatures of the whole universal world. Question--But why do not we Christians under the New, keep the Sabbath on the same seventh day on which it was kept under the Old Testament? I answer--Because our …
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety A Prayer when one Begins to be Sick.
O most righteous Judge, yet in Jesus Christ my gracious Father! I, wretched sinner, do here return unto thee, though driven with pain and sickness, like the prodigal child with want and hunger. I acknowledge that this sickness and pain comes not by blind chance or fortune, but by thy divine providence and special appointment. It is the stroke of thy heavy hand, which my sins have justly deserved; and the things that I feared are now fallen upon me (Job iii. 25.) Yet do I well perceive that in wrath …
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety A Cloud of Witnesses.
"By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau, even concerning things to come. By faith Jacob, when he was a-dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff. By faith Joseph, when his end was nigh, made mention of the departure of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones.... By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they had been compassed about for seven days. By faith Rahab the harlot perished not with them that were disobedient, …
Thomas Charles Edwards—The Expositor's Bible: The Epistle to the Hebrews Kings
The book[1] of Kings is strikingly unlike any modern historical narrative. Its comparative brevity, its curious perspective, and-with some brilliant exceptions--its relative monotony, are obvious to the most cursory perusal, and to understand these things is, in large measure, to understand the book. It covers a period of no less than four centuries. Beginning with the death of David and the accession of Solomon (1 Kings i., ii.) it traverses his reign with considerable fulness (1 Kings iii.-xi.), …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links 2 Kings 20:19 NIV2 Kings 20:19 NLT2 Kings 20:19 ESV2 Kings 20:19 NASB2 Kings 20:19 KJV
2 Kings 20:19 Commentaries
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