Main Highlights
Hezekiah's faith and wise leadership in the face of Assyrian threat, contrasted with his pride and subsequent humbling.
Key Verses
After these acts of faithfulness Sennacherib king of Assyria came and invaded Judah and encamped against the fortified cities, thinking to win them for himself. 2 Chronicles 32:1; When Hezekiah saw that Sennacherib had come and intended to fight against Jerusalem, he planned with his officers and mighty men to stop the water of the springs that were outside the city; and they helped him. 2 Chronicles 32:2-4; Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or dismayed before the king of Assyria and all the horde that is with him, for there are more with us than with him. 2 Chronicles 32:7; And the people relied on the words of Hezekiah king of Judah. 2 Chronicles 32:8; But Hezekiah did not make return according to the benefit done to him, for his heart was proud. Therefore wrath came upon him and Judah and Jerusalem. 2 Chronicles 32:25; But Hezekiah humbled himself for the pride of his heart, both he and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that the wrath of the Lord did not come upon them in the days of Hezekiah. 2 Chronicles 32:26; And Hezekiah prospered in all his works. 2 Chronicles 32:30; And Hezekiah slept with his fathers, and they buried him in the upper part of the tombs of the sons of David, and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem did him honor at his death. And Manasseh his son reigned in his place. 2 Chronicles 32:33; And the Lord sent an angel, who cut off all the mighty warriors and commanders and officers in the camp of the king of Assyria. So he returned with shamed face to his own land. And when he went into the house of his god, some of his own sons struck him down there with the sword. 2 Chronicles 32:21
Related Scripture
God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. James 4:6; And there shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit. Isaiah 11:1; Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5
Scholar Insight
"The chronicler holds up Hezekiah as a model of faith and repentance, demonstrating that even the righteous can stumble, but through humility and seeking God, restoration is possible. – Raymond B. Dillard, 2 Chronicles (Word Biblical Commentary, Vol. 15; Word, 1998), p. 261."
Theological Analysis
What we learn about God
We learn that God is a protector of those who trust in Him, that He hears and answers prayer. We also learn that God opposes pride but shows mercy to the humble.
Christological Connection
Though not explicitly mentioned, Hezekiah's role as a righteous king defending his people can be seen as a foreshadowing of Christ, the ultimate King and defender.
Systematic Theology
The sovereignty of God is displayed: God is in control of the nations and their rulers, and He can use them for His purposes or restrain them according to His will.
Law & Grace
Hezekiah's actions, especially his initial pride, fall short of God's law. However, his subsequent repentance and humbling himself before God demonstrates the availability of grace and forgiveness.
Personal Application
We should strive for humility, recognizing our dependence on God and acknowledging His sovereignty in our lives. We should also be courageous in the face of adversity, trusting in God's power to deliver us.