Isaiah 39:6

The time will surely come when everything in your palace and all that your fathers have stored up until this day will be carried off to Babylon. Nothing will be left, says the LORD.

Study Bible

The time will surely come
This phrase indicates the certainty of the prophecy. It reflects the biblical theme of God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His word. Similar language is used in other prophetic contexts, such as in Habakkuk 2:3, emphasizing the inevitability of God's plans.

when everything in your palace
The palace represents the wealth and splendor of the kingdom. Historically, the palaces of Judah were filled with treasures and artifacts, signifying the prosperity of the nation. This prophecy foreshadows the eventual plundering by Babylon, as recorded in 2 Kings 24:13.

and all that your fathers have stored up until this day
This refers to the accumulated wealth and heritage of the nation, passed down through generations. It highlights the loss of not just material wealth but also cultural and historical legacy. The treasures stored by previous kings, such as Solomon, are included in this prophecy.

will be carried off to Babylon
Babylon, a rising power at the time, is identified as the future conqueror. This prophecy was fulfilled during the Babylonian exile, as detailed in 2 Kings 25:13-17. Babylon's role as an instrument of God's judgment is a recurring theme in the prophetic books.

Nothing will be left
This emphasizes the totality of the coming destruction and exile. It reflects the complete judgment that would befall Judah due to their disobedience. The phrase echoes the warnings given in Deuteronomy 28:49-52 about the consequences of turning away from God.

says the LORD
This affirms the divine authority behind the prophecy. It underscores that the message is not from Isaiah himself but from God. The phrase "says the LORD" is a common prophetic formula, reinforcing the authenticity and seriousness of the message.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah is the one delivering God's message to King Hezekiah in this passage. His role is to communicate God's warnings and promises to the people of Judah.

2. Hezekiah
The King of Judah at the time, Hezekiah is known for his faithfulness to God but also for his moments of pride and failure. This prophecy is a direct consequence of his actions.

3. Babylon
A powerful empire that would eventually conquer Judah and carry its people into exile. Babylon represents both a literal and symbolic place of judgment and captivity.

4. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who is sovereign over history and nations. His pronouncement through Isaiah is a declaration of future events as a result of Judah's disobedience.

5. The Palace and Treasures
Symbolic of the wealth and security of Judah, which will be lost due to the nation's failure to remain faithful to God.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Pride
Hezekiah's pride in showing off his wealth led to a prophecy of loss. Pride can lead to downfall, and we must guard our hearts against it.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
This passage reminds us that God is in control of history. Nations rise and fall according to His will, and His purposes will be accomplished.

The Importance of Faithfulness
Judah's impending exile was a result of unfaithfulness. We are called to remain faithful to God, trusting in His promises and commands.

The Reality of Judgment
God's warnings through His prophets are real and should be heeded. Ignoring God's word can lead to severe consequences.

Hope Beyond Judgment
While this passage speaks of judgment, the broader account of Scripture assures us of God's plan for redemption and restoration.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hezekiah's interaction with the Babylonian envoys illustrate the dangers of pride, and how can we apply this lesson in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the prophecy of Babylonian captivity demonstrate God's sovereignty, and how can this understanding impact our view of current world events?

3. Reflect on a time when ignoring God's warnings led to negative consequences in your life. What did you learn from that experience?

4. How does the theme of faithfulness in Isaiah 39:6 connect with other biblical teachings on remaining true to God, such as those found in the New Testament?

5. Considering the broader account of Scripture, how does the promise of restoration and redemption after judgment provide hope and encouragement in your spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 20:12-19
This passage provides the historical context for Isaiah 39, detailing Hezekiah's prideful display of his wealth to the Babylonian envoys, which leads to Isaiah's prophecy of future exile.

Jeremiah 25:11-12
Jeremiah prophesies about the Babylonian captivity, confirming Isaiah's warning and emphasizing the duration of the exile.

Daniel 1:1-2
Describes the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy when Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon invades Jerusalem and takes treasures and captives, including Daniel.