The rollercoaster of King Hezekiah’s life continues in chapter 39. He has recovered from a life-threatening illness, he has overcome a seige of his capital city Jerusalem, and now in chapter 39 - he is faced with still a greater threat; himself.

Upon hearing that Hezekiah had recovered, the King of Babylon sends Hezekiah his best wishes and a gift. Not just a “get well card” but an envoy comes to Jerusalem and begins to get the royal tour of the city. Babylon was the emerging power in the southeast, while Assyria was the bubble-Empire to the north. Assyria was extending its reach far into distant lands, which included trying to wipe out Jerusalem and Babylon. Now Babylonian ambassadors are in Jerusalem working to convince Hezekiah to join them in an alliance to overcome this dominant threat from the north.

And Hezekiah seems oblivious to the seriousness of his situation! He takes them around the town, showing the Babylonians ancient artifacts and special buildings and all the storehouses - letting their eyes see the piles of cash and the family silver. (read more)

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