2 Kings 20:17

The time will surely come when everything in your palace and all that your fathers have stored up until this day will be carried off to Babylon. Nothing will be left, says the LORD.

Study Bible

Behold
This word serves as a call to attention, urging the listener to pay close heed to the forthcoming prophecy. In Hebrew, "hinneh" is often used to introduce a significant announcement or divine revelation. It underscores the gravity and certainty of the message that follows, emphasizing that it is not merely a prediction but a declaration from God Himself.

the days are coming
This phrase indicates an impending future event, suggesting inevitability and divine timing. It reflects the prophetic nature of the message, where God, who exists outside of time, reveals what is to come. This serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over history and His ability to orchestrate events according to His divine plan.

when everything in your palace
The term "everything" signifies totality, indicating that nothing of value will be spared. The "palace" represents not just the physical structure but the heart of the kingdom's wealth and power. This highlights the comprehensive nature of the impending judgment and the loss that will be experienced by the kingdom.

and all that your fathers have stored up until this day
This phrase points to the accumulated wealth and heritage passed down through generations. It underscores the continuity of blessings and achievements that are about to be lost. The reference to "fathers" connects the present generation to their ancestors, emphasizing the long-standing legacy that is at risk.

will be carried off to Babylon
The mention of "Babylon" is significant, as it was a rising power at the time and would later become a dominant empire. This prophecy foreshadows the Babylonian exile, a pivotal event in Israel's history. The act of being "carried off" implies not just physical removal but also the loss of autonomy and identity, as the people and their treasures are taken to a foreign land.

Nothing will be left
This stark statement reinforces the totality of the coming devastation. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the seriousness of God's judgment. The absolute nature of this loss is meant to provoke reflection and repentance.

says the LORD
The phrase "says the LORD" affirms the divine authority behind the prophecy. It is a reminder that these words are not merely human predictions but are spoken by Yahweh, the covenant-keeping God of Israel. This underscores the reliability and seriousness of the message, as it comes from the ultimate source of truth and justice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hezekiah
The king of Judah during this time, known for his faithfulness to God but also for his moment of pride when he showed the Babylonian envoys all his treasures.

2. Isaiah
The prophet who delivered God's message to Hezekiah, warning him of the future consequences of his actions.

3. Babylon
The rising power that would eventually conquer Judah and carry off its treasures and people into exile.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which Hezekiah ruled, and which would later face exile due to its disobedience to God.

5. Envoys from Babylon
Representatives from Babylon who visited Hezekiah, leading to the prophecy of future exile.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Pride
Hezekiah's pride in showing off his wealth led to a prophecy of loss. Pride can lead to downfall, and we must guard our hearts against it.

The Certainty of God's Word
God's prophecies, as delivered by Isaiah, came to pass. This reminds us of the reliability and truth of God's Word.

The Importance of Humility and Repentance
Hezekiah's account encourages us to remain humble and seek repentance when we stray, as God values a contrite heart.

The Sovereignty of God in History
The prophecy and subsequent exile demonstrate God's control over nations and history, reminding us to trust in His sovereign plan.

The Call to Faithfulness
Despite the impending judgment, God always preserves a remnant. We are called to remain faithful, trusting in God's promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hezekiah's interaction with the Babylonian envoys reflect the dangers of pride, and how can we apply this lesson in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the prophecy of exile in 2 Kings 20:17 demonstrate the reliability of God's Word, and how can this strengthen our faith today?

3. How does the account of Hezekiah and the prophecy of exile connect with the broader account of God's sovereignty over history?

4. What lessons can we learn from Hezekiah's life about the importance of humility and repentance in our relationship with God?

5. How can the assurance of God's faithfulness to preserve a remnant encourage us to remain steadfast in our faith amidst challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 24-25
These chapters describe the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy, detailing the Babylonian conquest and exile of Judah.

Isaiah 39
This chapter parallels 2 Kings 20, providing additional context to Hezekiah's actions and the prophecy of exile.

Jeremiah 25
Jeremiah prophesies about the seventy-year Babylonian captivity, further emphasizing the consequences of Judah's disobedience.

Daniel 1
Describes the beginning of the Babylonian exile and the experiences of Daniel and his friends, who were among those taken to Babylon.