Isaiah 36

Isaiah 36 is the beginning of a 3 part story. King Hezekiah’s test. Recap In Isaiah 7, Isaiah confronted King Ahaz at the aqueducts of Jerusalem as they prepared for an attack from Israel and Syria. Ahaz failed to trust God, being more focused on his local attackers. He hoped to get help from Assyria. Isaiah said this is not a good idea. Now in King Hezekiah’s day, Assyria is coming to siege and attack Jerusalem just as Isaiah warned. In the same spot Isaiah stood, the Assyrian king’s chief meets with Eliakim, Shebna, and Joah. Summary Sennacherib’s spokesperson tells them not to look to Egypt. While this sounds like what Isaiah said all along, it is actually a way to crush their spirits. Next, he says that God won’t help them, but he misunderstands that Hezekiah’s reforms of tearing down the altars was God’s desire. He tries to show how their army is far superior to Judah’s and says they have nothing to rely on. He ends finally by using the prophet’s words against them: “The Lord has told us: ‘attack and destroy it.’” Everything this officer says is intended to threaten, dishearten and discourage King Hezekiah and Jerusalem. God Assyria saw weapons and armies as their gods. Gods of violence and war. Their taunts were the words of Isaiah mixed with religious taunts. It is easy to have a mistaken view of God. Maybe Eliakim and co would believe this Assyrian representative. Maybe he’s right about Hezekiah failing them. He speaks in Hebrew (the language of Jerusalem) and bribes them with everything Isaiah has told them God would provide them should they be faithful to Him. Gospel At some point, the word of God needs to become part of our life. It can be easy for us to listen to the Bible and hear encouraging messages and say I believe. But will we live them too? When crisis comes, how will we respond? When we are doubting, will we give up, or renew our faith again? When Satan puts before us temptation, will we fall or rise again? “Do not answer him.” It was the command of Hezekiah to the people. Everyone remained silent. In this one thing, they are putting their trust in their king. How do we go when Jesus tells us to be silent and listen? Conclusion Ahaz failed in a similar test. Will Hezekiah repeat his parents' mistakes or will he follow God’s word? Will this be a turning moment for Israel? Will Hezekiah exemplify what it looks like to be a true king?