Isaiah 38-40

Isaiah 38

This chapter occurs after Assyria’s defeat from chapter 37

• See also 2 Kings 20

Isaiah announces impending death of Hezekiah: “Set your house in order.” Hezekiah turns his face to the wall and weeps to God, reminding Him of his loyalty

God responds immediately to prayer. He promises 15 additional years

God gives a sign: Shadow moves backward on the steps of Ahaz

Hezekiah gives a written testimony of suffering

• Imagery of death:
  • Shepherd’s tent taken
  • Weaver’s loom cut
  • Weak bird cries

But then he also gives a prayer thanking God

• He says he will walk carefully in his remaining years

Isaiah says to apply  figs to boil and he will be healed

Isaiah 39

This chapter functions as a bridge chapter

• Ends Isaiah 1–39
• Introduces exile theme of Isaiah 40+ 

The King of Babylon Merodach-Baladan hears Hezekiah was healed. 

Babylonian envoys visit and Hezekiah displays all wealth. Isaiah questions his motives

God ’s judgment announced: Babylon will carry off their wealth and take their descendants captive. 

Hezekiah accepts God’s word, but says at least there will be peace in his days! 

Isaiah 40

Isaiah is command to comfort God’s people

• Warfare ended
• Sin pardoned

Voice cries out in the wilderness to prepare the way of the LORD

• Currently Isaiah 
• Fulfilled in John the Baptist

Human life likened to grass which fades BUT God’s word stands forever

Zion told to proclaim good news and behold God.

• God’s power is seen through His rule
• He rewards His people
  • Feeds them
  • gathers them
  • Carries them
  • Leads them

The Incomparable Creator

• Who compares to God??
• Nations are dust
• Idols powerless
• “To whom then will you liken Me, Or to whom shall I be equal?” says the Holy One.

Confidence in God

• God’s understanding is unsearchable
• God has ultimate power
• Waiting on the LORD brings renewed strength

Question:

Why did God need to give a sign to Hezekiah?

Why did Israelites have this view of death Hezekiah did? I shall not see YAH, the LORD in the land of the living – contrasted to Job’s confident statement And after my skin is destroyed, this [I know], That in my flesh I shall see God,

Application

In chapter 38, Hezekiah’s story reminds us that God invites prayer even when something seems inevitable. In chapter 39 we see the downfall of pride and self-confidence. Even the most faithful can still fall into temptation like Hezekiah. Lastly chapter 40 shows us the greatness of God. His power is unmatched and His word never fails!!