Chapter Summary

Reign and revival of Hezekiah over Judah. Victory over Philllstines. Invasion of Sennacherib. Insolence of Rab-shekeh.

Discussion Questions for 2 Kings, Chapter 18

1. Why was is it significant that Hezekiah did what was right in the eyes of the Lord? What are some of the ways that Hezekiah like David his father before him? Why were the people of Judah and Israel looking for a king like David?
2. What was the purpose of taking down the high places? What about tearing down the bronze snake that Moses made? How does Hezekiah's actions inform us about worshiping the Lord?
3. What are some idols that we have formed in the local church or in our own lives that need to be torn down?
4. What is the link between the removal of the high places/tearing down idols and Hezekiah's stand against the enemy of Assyria? How can we link true worship of Jesus and our battle against sin?
5. What does verse 5-7 inform us of faith and obedience? How does Hezekiah's trust cause him to obey the Lord in the midst of a great adversary? Can you provide examples from Hezekiah's life or from your own experiences where trust in God's faithfulness has led to obedience despite facing difficult circumstances, and how has this impacted your faith journey?
6. Why was Rabshakeh focused on if Hezekiah's trust was in Egypt? What about in Yahweh?
7. Why are people often so unwilling to obey and trust in the Lord?
8. What was the result of Israel's disobedience? What was the result of Hezekiah's obedience?
9. How was Hezekiah's life similar to Jesus's? How was it different? In what ways do the similarities and differences between Hezekiah's life and Jesus's life highlight broader themes or principles regarding human leadership, faithfulness, and the nature of divine redemption, and how might these insights inform our understanding of both biblical narratives and our own lives?
10. What was the people's reaction to Rabshakeh's words? What was Hezekiah's reaction? Why do you think they felt this way?

Key Words/Phrase

Seducers, v. 30.

Characters

God, Hezekiah, Hoshea, Shalmaneser, Sennacherib, Eliakim, dhebnah, Tartan, Rabsaris, Rab-shakeh, Joah.

Strong Verse(s)

6, 7.