2 Kings 18:6

He remained faithful to the LORD and did not turn from following Him; he kept the commandments that the LORD had given Moses.

Study Bible

He remained faithful to the LORD
This phrase highlights King Hezekiah's steadfast devotion to God, contrasting with many of his predecessors who fell into idolatry. Hezekiah's faithfulness is significant in the context of the divided kingdom, where the northern kingdom of Israel had already fallen to Assyria due to their unfaithfulness. His commitment is reminiscent of the covenantal faithfulness required by God, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:5, where the Israelites are commanded to love the LORD with all their heart, soul, and strength.

and did not turn from following Him;
Hezekiah's unwavering dedication is emphasized here, indicating his consistent obedience and refusal to deviate from God's path. This steadfastness is a key theme in the Deuteronomic history, where blessings are promised for obedience and curses for disobedience (Deuteronomy 28). Hezekiah's reign is marked by religious reforms, including the removal of high places and the destruction of idols, aligning with the call to exclusive worship of Yahweh.

he kept the commandments
This phrase underscores Hezekiah's adherence to the Mosaic Law, which was central to Israel's identity and relationship with God. His observance of the commandments reflects a return to the foundational principles given at Sinai, contrasting with the syncretism and idolatry that plagued Judah. This obedience is a model of covenant faithfulness, akin to the ideal king described in Deuteronomy 17:18-20, who is to read and follow the law diligently.

that the LORD had given Moses.
The reference to Moses connects Hezekiah's actions to the foundational covenant at Sinai, where the law was given as a guide for Israel's life and worship. This continuity with Moses' covenant underscores the legitimacy and divine authority of Hezekiah's reforms. It also points to the prophetic tradition, where leaders are called to return to the covenantal roots, as seen in the ministries of prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah. The Mosaic Law serves as a type of Christ, who fulfills the law and prophets, as noted in Matthew 5:17.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Hezekiah reigned. It was often contrasted with the northern kingdom, Israel, which had a history of idolatry and rebellion against God.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who gave the commandments to Moses and whom Hezekiah faithfully followed.

4. Moses
The prophet and leader who received the Law from God on Mount Sinai, which included the commandments that Hezekiah adhered to.

5. Commandments
The laws given by God to Moses, which were meant to guide the Israelites in their covenant relationship with Him.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness to God
Hezekiah's life demonstrates the importance of unwavering faithfulness to God, even in the face of cultural and societal pressures. Believers today are called to remain steadfast in their commitment to God's Word.

Obedience to God's Commandments
Hezekiah's adherence to the commandments given to Moses highlights the importance of obedience in the believer's life. Obedience is a tangible expression of our love for God.

Rejecting Idolatry
Hezekiah's reforms included the removal of idols, teaching us the necessity of removing anything from our lives that competes with our devotion to God.

Leadership and Influence
As a leader, Hezekiah's personal faithfulness had a profound impact on his nation. This underscores the influence that godly leadership can have in guiding others toward righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hezekiah's example of clinging to the LORD challenge you in your personal walk with God?

2. In what ways can you actively remove "idols" or distractions in your life that hinder your relationship with God?

3. How does the concept of obedience to God's commandments apply to contemporary issues you face today?

4. Reflect on a time when your faithfulness to God influenced others. How can you continue to be a positive influence in your community?

5. How do the additional scriptures connected to 2 Kings 18:6 deepen your understanding of what it means to follow God wholeheartedly?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 6:5
This verse emphasizes loving the LORD with all one's heart, soul, and strength, which Hezekiah exemplified by clinging to God.

Joshua 22:5
Encourages adherence to God's commandments and love for Him, similar to Hezekiah's actions.

Psalm 119:31
Speaks of clinging to God's testimonies, reflecting Hezekiah's commitment to God's commandments.

2 Chronicles 31:20-21
Describes Hezekiah's dedication to doing what was good and right in the eyes of the LORD, reinforcing his faithfulness.