Book of 2 Chronicles - Chapter 32 - Verse 17
Meaning
The verse "He wrote also letters to rail on the LORD God of Israel, and to speak against him, saying, As the gods of the nations of other lands have not delivered their people out of mine hand, so shall not the God of Hezekiah deliver his people out of mine hand." is a statement made by the Assyrian commander who was sent by the king of Assyria to threaten Jerusalem during the reign of King Hezekiah. In his arrogance, the commander mocked the power of the God of Israel, claiming that just as the gods of other nations failed to protect them, so too would the God of Hezekiah fail to deliver his people from the Assyrian army. This verse serves as a reminder of the constant threat that the people of Israel faced from hostile nations and the importance of trusting in the power and protection of their God, even in the face of overwhelming odds. It also demonstrates the faithlessness and arrogance of those who seek to defy the one true God.
Theological Overview
Within this verse, there is a clear example of blasphemy towards the God of Israel. The Assyrian king, Sennacherib, attempts to belittle the power of the true God by comparing Him to the gods of the nations that he has conquered. This highlights the arrogance and pride of Sennacherib, who fails to recognize that the God of Hezekiah is not just another deity, but the Almighty God who created the heavens and the earth. The theological interpretation of this verse reveals the importance of acknowledging and honoring the power and sovereignty of God. Additionally, a word study of the term "rail" in this context sheds light on the severity of Sennacherib's disrespect towards the Lord. It emphasizes the magnitude of his blasphemy and the gravity of his words against the God of Israel. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of speaking against the one true God and the importance of revering Him in all circumstances.