Book of 2 Kings - Chapter 20 - Verse 16
Meaning
When Isaiah said unto Hezekiah, "Hear the word of the LORD," he was delivering a message from God to the king of Judah. In this context, the prophet Isaiah was speaking on behalf of God, conveying divine instructions or words of encouragement to Hezekiah. This verse highlights the importance of listening to the messages from the Lord and obeying His commands. It serves as a reminder for believers to always be attentive to God's voice and to seek His guidance in all aspects of their lives. By paying heed to the word of the Lord, individuals can receive wisdom, direction, and blessings from Him. This verse underscores the profound relationship between humanity and God, emphasizing the role of prophets and messengers as intermediaries who convey God's will to His people. For readers of the Bible, this passage serves as a call to listen to the divine revelations and to follow God's instructions with faith and obedience.
Theological Overview
When Isaiah said unto Hezekiah, "Hear the word of the Lord," he was invoking a common prophetic formula used throughout the Bible to signal that what followed was a direct revelation from God. In this specific instance, the word "hear" carries a sense of urgency and importance, urging Hezekiah to pay close attention to the message that was about to be delivered. The phrase "the word of the Lord" further emphasizes the divine origins of the message, underscoring that it is not merely Isaiah's opinion or advice but a direct communication from God Himself.
From a theological perspective, this verse highlights the significance of heeding God's word and being open to receiving His messages. It demonstrates the role of prophets like Isaiah as intermediaries between God and humans, tasked with conveying God's will and guidance to His people. The act of listening attentively to the word of the Lord is seen as crucial for spiritual growth, obedience, and alignment with God's plans.