2 Chronicles 32:31

And so when ambassadors of the rulers of Babylon were sent to him to inquire about the wonder that had happened in the land, God left him alone to test him, that He might know all that was in Hezekiah's heart.

Study Bible

And so in the matter of the envoys
The phrase "in the matter of the envoys" refers to a specific incident involving representatives from Babylon. The Hebrew word for "envoys" is "מַלְאָכִים" (mal'akhim), which can also mean messengers or ambassadors. This highlights the diplomatic nature of the visit, indicating a formal and significant interaction. Historically, envoys were often sent to establish alliances or gather intelligence, suggesting that this was a moment of political and spiritual significance for Hezekiah.

of the rulers of Babylon
The "rulers of Babylon" refers to the leaders of a powerful and influential kingdom. Babylon, known for its grandeur and might, was a center of culture and power in the ancient Near East. The mention of Babylon here underscores the geopolitical importance of the event. It also foreshadows the future Babylonian captivity, making this encounter a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative.

who were sent to him
The phrase "who were sent to him" indicates that the envoys were dispatched with a purpose. This action suggests intentionality and the importance of the mission. In the biblical context, being "sent" often implies a divine or significant mandate, reflecting the seriousness of the inquiry and the potential consequences of Hezekiah's response.

to inquire about the wonder
The word "inquire" comes from the Hebrew "דָּרַשׁ" (darash), meaning to seek or investigate. The "wonder" refers to a miraculous event, likely the sign of the sun moving backward as recorded in 2 Kings 20:8-11. This miracle was a divine intervention, capturing the attention of distant nations and prompting their curiosity about the God of Israel.

that had happened in the land
This phrase situates the miracle within the land of Judah, emphasizing its local impact and significance. The "land" in biblical terms often refers to the Promised Land, a place of divine promise and activity. The occurrence of such a wonder in this land highlights God's active presence and power among His people.

God left him
The phrase "God left him" is profound, indicating a temporary withdrawal of divine guidance. The Hebrew word "עָזַב" (azav) means to leave or forsake. This does not imply abandonment but rather a deliberate step back to allow Hezekiah to act independently. It reflects a moment of testing, where Hezekiah's faith and character are put to the test.

to test him
The word "test" comes from the Hebrew "נָסָה" (nasah), meaning to try or prove. This testing is not for God's knowledge, as He is omniscient, but for Hezekiah's growth and revelation of his heart's true condition. It is a common biblical theme where God tests individuals to refine their faith and reveal their dependence on Him.

and to know everything that was in his heart
The phrase "to know everything that was in his heart" suggests a deep examination of Hezekiah's inner motives and desires. In Hebrew thought, the "heart" (לֵב, lev) is the center of will, emotion, and intellect. This testing was to reveal whether Hezekiah's trust was in God or in his own strength and alliances. It serves as a reminder of the importance of a heart fully devoted to God, free from pride and self-reliance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hezekiah
The King of Judah, known for his faithfulness to God and his reforms to restore proper worship in the kingdom. He is the central figure in this passage.

2. Envoys of Babylon
Representatives sent by the rulers of Babylon to inquire about the miraculous events in Judah, particularly the sign of the sun moving backward as a result of Hezekiah's prayer.

3. God's Testing
The event where God allowed Hezekiah to be tested by leaving him to his own devices to reveal the true condition of his heart.

4. The Wonder in the Land
Refers to the miraculous sign given to Hezekiah, which was the sun's shadow moving backward as a confirmation of God's promise to heal him and extend his life.

5. Babylon
A rising power at the time, whose interest in Judah foreshadows future interactions and eventual exile.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Testing
God sometimes allows us to face tests to reveal the true state of our hearts. These tests are opportunities for growth and self-reflection.

The Danger of Pride
Hezekiah's interaction with the Babylonian envoys reveals a moment of pride. We must be vigilant against pride, especially after experiencing God's blessings.

The Importance of Discernment
Hezekiah's failure to discern the intentions of the Babylonian envoys serves as a reminder to seek God's wisdom in all interactions and decisions.

The Consequences of Actions
Our actions, especially those made without consulting God, can have long-term consequences. Hezekiah's actions eventually led to the Babylonian interest in Judah.

Heart Examination
Regularly examine your heart and motives in light of God's Word to ensure alignment with His will.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Hezekiah's interaction with the Babylonian envoys teach us about the importance of humility and reliance on God?

2. How can we apply the lesson of God's testing in our own lives, especially during times of blessing and success?

3. In what ways can we guard our hearts against pride and ensure that our actions reflect God's glory rather than our own?

4. How does the account of Hezekiah and the Babylonian envoys connect with the broader account of Israel's history and God's plan for His people?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a test or trial. How did it reveal the condition of your heart, and what did you learn from the experience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 20:12-19
Provides a parallel account of the visit from the Babylonian envoys and Hezekiah's response, offering more context to the event.

Isaiah 39
Isaiah's prophecy concerning the consequences of Hezekiah's actions with the Babylonian envoys, predicting the future Babylonian captivity.

Deuteronomy 8:2
Discusses God's testing of Israel in the wilderness to know what was in their hearts, similar to God's testing of Hezekiah.

Proverbs 4:23
Emphasizes the importance of guarding one's heart, as it is the wellspring of life, relevant to understanding Hezekiah's test.