Isaiah 36:14

This is what the king says: Do not let Hezekiah deceive you, for he cannot deliver you.

Study Bible

This is what the king says:
This phrase introduces the message from the Assyrian king, Sennacherib, delivered through his field commander. It reflects the political and military tension between Assyria and Judah during the reign of King Hezekiah. The Assyrian Empire was a dominant force, known for its military prowess and expansionist policies. This statement sets the stage for a psychological warfare tactic aimed at undermining the confidence of the people of Judah in their leadership.

Do not let Hezekiah deceive you:
The Assyrian envoy attempts to sow doubt among the people of Judah regarding their king's ability to protect them. Hezekiah is portrayed as potentially misleading his people, suggesting that his assurances of divine protection are false. This reflects a common tactic in ancient warfare, where besieging forces would try to weaken the resolve of a city by questioning the competence and intentions of its leaders. Theologically, this can be seen as an attack on faith, as Hezekiah was known for his religious reforms and trust in God (2 Kings 18:5-6).

for he cannot deliver you:
The statement challenges Hezekiah's ability to save Jerusalem from the Assyrian threat, emphasizing the perceived futility of resistance. Historically, Assyria had a reputation for conquering fortified cities, and their military successes were well-documented. This phrase also highlights the theme of deliverance, a recurring motif in the Bible where God is often depicted as the ultimate deliverer of His people (Psalm 18:2). The Assyrian claim contrasts with the biblical narrative that true deliverance comes from God, not human leaders. This foreshadows the miraculous deliverance of Jerusalem, as recorded later in Isaiah 37:36-37, where God intervenes to protect the city.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King 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 Assyrian King (Sennacherib)
The king of Assyria who invaded Judah and sent his officials to Jerusalem to demand its surrender.

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

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

5. The Siege of Jerusalem
A significant event where the Assyrian army surrounded Jerusalem, leading to a test of faith for Hezekiah and the people of Judah.

Teaching Points

Trust in God Over Human Leaders
While Hezekiah was a godly leader, the ultimate deliverance comes from God, not man. This teaches us to place our trust in God above all human authority.

The Power of Faith in Crisis
Hezekiah's faith during the siege serves as a model for trusting God in dire circumstances. We are encouraged to seek God earnestly when facing our own "sieges."

Discernment Against Deception
The Assyrian message aimed to sow doubt and fear. Believers must be discerning, recognizing and rejecting messages that contradict God's promises.

God's Sovereignty in Deliverance
The account underscores God's control over nations and events. We are reminded of His sovereignty and ability to deliver us from seemingly impossible situations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the message from the Assyrian king challenge the faith of the people of Jerusalem, and how can we apply this to challenges to our faith today?

2. In what ways does Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat demonstrate reliance on God, and how can we emulate this in our own lives?

3. How does the account of the Assyrian siege in Isaiah 36-37 encourage us to trust in God's promises despite external pressures?

4. What can we learn from the Assyrian strategy of using fear and deception, and how can we guard against similar tactics in our spiritual lives?

5. How do the events in Isaiah 36 relate to the broader biblical theme of God's deliverance, and what other scriptures reinforce this theme?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 18-19
Provides a parallel account of the Assyrian siege and Hezekiah's response, offering additional context and details.

Isaiah 37
Continues the account, showing Hezekiah's prayer and God's deliverance of Jerusalem, emphasizing the power of faith and divine intervention.

Psalm 46
Often associated with this event, highlighting God's protection and presence in times of trouble.

2 Chronicles 32
Offers another perspective on Hezekiah's reign and the Assyrian threat, emphasizing his reliance on God.