Isaiah 36
Difficult Questions and Answers
Isaiah 36:1: How do we reconcile the biblical account of Sennacherib’s invasion in Hezekiah’s fourteenth year with Assyrian records that date this campaign differently?

Isaiah 36:2: Is there archaeological evidence confirming the Rabshakeh’s confrontation at the upper pool near the Launderers’ Field?

Isaiah 36:4–6: Does the text accurately represent the complexity of alliances with Egypt, which many historians dispute or find unclear?

Isaiah 36:7: Why is removing high places presented by the Rabshakeh as a sign of God’s disfavor if Hezekiah’s reforms were meant to honor God?

Isaiah 36:18–20: How do we reconcile the Rabshakeh’s claim that no god has saved any nation from Assyria with the biblical assertion that the Lord ultimately delivered Judah?

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Sennacherib's strategy of psychological warfare reflect tactics used in today's world?

2. Discuss the role of faith and trust in God during times of adversity, as depicted in Isaiah 36.

3. In what ways does Rabshakeh’s speech aim to cause division and fear? How does this relate to modern forms of propaganda?

4. What is the significance of Hezekiah's men remaining silent despite Rabshakeh's taunts?

5. Why does Rabshakeh insist on speaking in Hebrew, despite Eliakim's plea to converse in Aramaic?

6. How might the promise of land and life affect the faith of the people of Judah?

7. How does this chapter illustrate the concept of "faith versus worldly alliances"?

8. In our current society, what could be some "Assyrian threats" that challenge your faith?

9. How do you maintain trust in God when facing overwhelming challenges, as Hezekiah did?

10. What lessons can modern leaders learn from Sennacherib's tactics and Hezekiah's response?

11. How does the tearing of clothes symbolize the emotional turmoil faced by the people of Judah?

12. Discuss the irony of Rabshakeh claiming that the Lord has commissioned him to destroy the land.

13. How does the context of this chapter shape its message about resilience and faith?

14. How does this chapter demonstrate the power of fear and intimidation?

15. Discuss the role of silence as a tool of resistance in Isaiah 36.

16. Compare Rabshakeh's speech to ways in which misinformation is spread in today's society.

17. How does Isaiah 36 influence your perspective on handling fear and intimidation?

18. How would you respond to someone challenging your faith as Rabshakeh did with the people of Judah?

19. How can you apply the lessons learned from Hezekiah's silence to conflicts in your own life?

20. How might you handle a situation where your faith or belief is being ridiculed or publicly doubted?



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Isaiah 35
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