2 Kings 18:31

Do not listen to Hezekiah, for this is what the king of Assyria says: Make peace with me and come out to me. Then every one of you will eat from his own vine and his own fig tree, and drink water from his own cistern,

Study Bible

Do not listen to Hezekiah
This phrase is a direct command from the Assyrian king, Sennacherib, attempting to undermine the authority of King Hezekiah of Judah. The Hebrew root for "listen" is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which means to hear, listen, or obey. In the biblical context, listening often implies obedience and allegiance. The Assyrian king is trying to sow doubt and rebellion among the people of Judah by urging them not to obey their God-appointed leader, Hezekiah, who is known for his faithfulness to Yahweh.

for this is what the king of Assyria says
This phrase introduces the authority of the Assyrian king, who was one of the most powerful rulers of the time. Historically, Assyria was a dominant empire known for its military prowess and brutal conquests. The king's words are meant to intimidate and coerce the people of Judah into submission. The Assyrian king's message contrasts with the divine authority that Hezekiah represents, highlighting the spiritual battle between earthly power and divine promise.

Make peace with me
The phrase "make peace" comes from the Hebrew "בְּרָכָה" (berakah), which can mean blessing or treaty. The Assyrian king is offering a false sense of security, suggesting that peace can be achieved through submission to his rule. This is a deceptive offer, as true peace in the biblical sense is found in obedience to God, not in compromising with oppressive powers.

and come out to me
This invitation to "come out" implies surrender and submission. The Hebrew root "יָצָא" (yatsa) means to go out or come forth. The Assyrian king is calling the people to abandon their fortified city and their trust in God, to physically and spiritually step out from under God's protection and into the hands of their enemies.

Then each of you will eat from his own vine and fig tree
This promise of prosperity is a common biblical metaphor for peace and security (see Micah 4:4). The vine and fig tree symbolize agricultural abundance and personal well-being. However, the Assyrian king's promise is hollow, as true prosperity in the biblical narrative is tied to covenant faithfulness to God, not to submission to foreign powers.

and drink water from his own cistern
Water is a vital resource in the arid climate of the Near East, and having one's own cistern signifies self-sufficiency and stability. The Hebrew word for cistern, "בּוֹר" (bor), can also mean pit or well. The Assyrian king's promise is an attempt to lure the people with the illusion of self-reliance, yet it is a false assurance, as true security comes from reliance on God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hezekiah
The King of Judah, known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to reform the religious practices of his people by removing idolatry.

2. King of Assyria
The ruler of the Assyrian Empire, which was a dominant power during this period. The Assyrian king is attempting to intimidate and persuade the people of Judah to surrender.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, under siege by the Assyrian army. It is a central location for the events described in this passage.

4. Assyrian Siege
The military campaign led by the Assyrians against Judah, aiming to conquer Jerusalem and subdue its people.

5. Rabshakeh
The Assyrian field commander who delivers the message to the people of Jerusalem, attempting to undermine their trust in Hezekiah and God.

Teaching Points

Discernment in Leadership
Hezekiah's leadership is challenged by external threats. Believers are encouraged to discern and follow godly leadership, even when faced with persuasive opposition.

False Promises of Security
The Assyrian king offers a false sense of security. Christians should be wary of worldly promises that contradict God's word and rely on His provision and protection.

Trust in God Over Circumstances
Despite the dire situation, Hezekiah's account teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty and faithfulness rather than succumbing to fear or intimidation.

Spiritual Warfare
The psychological tactics used by the Assyrians highlight the importance of spiritual vigilance and the need to stand firm in faith against spiritual deception.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat demonstrate his faith in God, and what can we learn from his example when facing our own challenges?

2. In what ways do the promises of the Assyrian king mirror the temptations and false securities offered by the world today?

3. How can we apply the imagery of "eating from one's own vine and fig tree" to our understanding of true peace and security in Christ?

4. What role does prayer and seeking God's guidance play in Hezekiah's leadership, and how can we incorporate these practices into our daily decision-making?

5. How do the events in 2 Kings 18 encourage us to stand firm in our faith when confronted with messages that contradict God's promises?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 36-37
These chapters parallel the events in 2 Kings 18, providing additional context and details about the Assyrian siege and Hezekiah's response.

Micah 4:4
This verse uses similar imagery of each person sitting under their own vine and fig tree, symbolizing peace and security, which contrasts with the false promises of the Assyrian king.

Psalm 46
This psalm emphasizes God's protection and presence, encouraging trust in Him during times of trouble, much like the situation faced by Hezekiah and the people of Judah.