Now Isaiah had said, "Prepare a lump of pressed figs and apply it to the boil, and he will recover." Now Isaiah had said,Isaiah, a major prophet in the Hebrew Bible, often served as a mouthpiece for God, delivering messages to the kings of Judah. His role was not only to foretell future events but also to provide guidance and counsel. This phrase indicates that Isaiah is speaking with authority, likely under divine inspiration, as he often did throughout his ministry. 2Ki 20:1 In those days Hezekiah became mortally ill.… “Prepare a lump of pressed figs Figs were a common fruit in ancient Israel, known for their medicinal properties. The use of figs here reflects the practical application of natural remedies in biblical times. This instruction aligns with the cultural practices of using available resources for healing purposes. The preparation of figs as a poultice suggests a blend of faith and practical action, where divine instruction meets human effort. 2Ki 20:7 Then Isaiah said, “Prepare a poultice of figs.”… and apply it to the boil, The boil mentioned here could refer to a serious skin infection or abscess, which was a common ailment in ancient times. The application of the fig poultice is a specific remedy, indicating a direct intervention for a physical ailment. This reflects the understanding of disease and treatment in the ancient Near East, where physical and spiritual health were often interconnected. Job 2:7-8 So Satan went out from the presence of the LORD… and he will recover.” This promise of recovery is significant, as it demonstrates the power of God to heal through both natural and supernatural means. It also underscores the role of faith and obedience in the healing process. The assurance of recovery can be seen as a testament to God's mercy and faithfulness, as well as a fulfillment of His promises. This phrase connects to other biblical instances where faith and obedience lead to healing, such as in the New Testament accounts of Jesus healing the sick. 2Ki 20:5-6 Go back and tell Hezekiah the leader of My people… Persons / Places / Events 1. IsaiahA major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah is known for his prophecies concerning the coming of the Messiah and the salvation of the Lord. In this context, he acts as a messenger of God's healing instructions to King Hezekiah. 2. Hezekiah The King of Judah who reigned during a time of great political turmoil. Hezekiah is known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to restore proper worship in Judah. In this chapter, he is ill and receives a miraculous healing. 3. Jerusalem The capital city of Judah, where Hezekiah ruled and where the events of this chapter take place. It is a central location for many significant biblical events. 4. Boil The physical ailment that afflicted Hezekiah, which was severe enough to threaten his life. The boil represents a tangible manifestation of illness that required divine intervention for healing. 5. Pressed Figs A natural remedy prescribed by Isaiah, symbolizing the use of available resources in conjunction with faith in God's power to heal. Teaching Points Faith and ObedienceHezekiah's healing underscores the importance of faith and obedience to God's instructions. Even when the solution seems simple or unconventional, trusting in God's guidance is crucial. God's Sovereignty in Healing The use of pressed figs highlights that God can use natural means to accomplish His purposes. It reminds us that God is sovereign over all creation and can work through ordinary means to bring about extraordinary results. Prayer and Action While Hezekiah prayed for healing, he also took action by applying the remedy given by Isaiah. This teaches us the balance between prayer and taking practical steps in faith. God's Compassion Hezekiah's recovery is a testament to God's compassion and willingness to extend grace and mercy to those who seek Him earnestly. The Role of Prophets Isaiah's role as a prophet emphasizes the importance of listening to God's messengers and valuing the wisdom and guidance they provide. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Hezekiah's response to his illness demonstrate his faith in God, and what can we learn from his example about facing our own challenges?2. In what ways does the use of pressed figs as a remedy illustrate the relationship between faith and practical action in our spiritual lives? 3. How can we apply the principle of seeking God's guidance in times of trouble, as demonstrated by Hezekiah, to our own decision-making processes? 4. What does Hezekiah's healing teach us about God's character, particularly His compassion and willingness to intervene in our lives? 5. How can we discern and respond to the "prophetic voices" in our lives today, and what role do they play in guiding us toward God's will? Connections to Other Scriptures 2 Kings 20:1-11This passage provides a parallel account of Hezekiah's illness and recovery, offering additional details about the events and God's promise to extend Hezekiah's life. James 5:14-15 This New Testament passage discusses the role of prayer and anointing in healing, drawing a parallel to the faith and obedience demonstrated by Hezekiah in following God's instructions through Isaiah. Psalm 103:2-3 This psalm praises God for His benefits, including healing all diseases, which aligns with the theme of divine healing in Hezekiah's account.
People Ahaz, Amoz, David, Hezekiah, IsaiahPlaces AssyriaTopics Apply, Boil, Bunch, Cake, Diseased, Figs, Isaiah, Lay, Lump, Plaister, Plaster, Poultice, Prepare, Recover, UlcerDictionary of Bible Themes Isaiah 38:21 4440 fig-tree Library The Life of the Spirit(First Sunday after Christmas.) Isaiah xxxviii. 16. O Lord, by these things men live, and in all these things is the life of my spirit. These words are the words of Hezekiah, king of Judah; and they are true words, words from God. But, if they are true words, they are true words for every one--for you and me, for every one here in this church this day: for they do not say, By these things certain men live, one man here and another man there; but all men. Whosoever is really alive, that is, has … Charles Kingsley—Town and Country Sermons No Man Cometh to the Father but by Me. Epistle ii. To Anastasius, Bishop of Antioch. Sign Seekers, and the Enthusiast Reproved. Letter Xliv Concerning the Maccabees but to whom Written is Unknown. Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners: Meditations for the Sick. Assurance The Power of God I Will Pray with the Spirit and with the Understanding Also- Isaiah Links Isaiah 38:21 NIVIsaiah 38:21 NLT Isaiah 38:21 ESV Isaiah 38:21 NASB Isaiah 38:21 KJV Isaiah 38:21 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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