Chapter Summary

Sennacherib's invasion and Jehovah's deliverance. The threats of Rabshakeh.

Discussion Questions for Isaiah, Chapter 36

1. How many times is the word "deliver" (ESV) used in this passage? What is the significance of that repetition? Where else does that verb play an important part in the history of Israel?
2. The Bible tells us that Sennacherib captured all the fortified cities. What does that tell us about Jerusalem's outlook? Why do you think God allowed this test?
3. How does the Rabshakeh (high ranking military officer) mock the people of Judah? Does he succeed in wavering the people's trust in God? Why do you think Isaiah records this man's cocky diatribe against Yahweh?
4. The enemy promises blessings if Jerusalem listens to his word and surrenders. Read 1 Kings 4:24–25 and Micah 4:4. When does Jerusalem flourish the most? How does God bring fruitfulness to his land and people?
5. Assyria has quite the resume of conquered foes. What gods and nations did they conquer? Do you ever get discouraged by the apparent successes of the wicked? Why or why not?
6. Do you think it was wise for the Israelite forces to keep silent? What do you think Hezekiah wanted to accomplish? Where do we find biblical principles that explain how to respond to bragging?
7. How do you respond when others mock or ridicule your Christian faith? Can you think of a time when you had to face a bully? How did others watch your response?
8. In what ways does a crisis enable us to point others to God? What about persecution? What happens if we give in to the demands of the wicked?
9. Why did the court officials tear their clothes? What does their reaction teach us about responding to seemingly impossible difficulties? Do you believe God wants you to exhibit authentic or stoic faith? What is the difference?
10. When we admit the impossibility of our situations, we get to see how God alone delivers. Think of a time in your life when you could not see a way out and God met your needs. Have you shared this story with others? Who needs to hear your story this week?

Key Words/Phrase

Confidence unshaken, vv. 4, 21.

Characters

God, Sennacherib, Rabskakeh, Hezekiah, Eliakim, Shebnab, Joab, Pharaoh.

Strong Verse(s)

21