Isaiah 36:20: “Who of all the gods of these countries has been able to save their lands from me? How then can the Lord deliver Jerusalem from my hand?”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

In Isaiah 36:20, the Assyrian official Rabshakeh continues his taunts against the people of Judah and their faith in God. He questions God’s ability to save Jerusalem by comparing Him to the powerless idols of other nations. Rabshakeh’s argument is rooted in human arrogance and ignorance of the true nature of the Lord. His assumption is that since the gods of other nations failed to deliver their people, the God of Israel will also fail.

This verse represents a direct challenge to God’s authority and power. It’s designed to intimidate the people of Jerusalem and shake their faith in the Lord. However, Rabshakeh fails to understand that the God of Israel is not like the idols of other nations—He is the living God, sovereign over all creation.

Historical Context

The events of Isaiah 36 occur during the reign of King Hezekiah, when the Assyrian Empire, led by King Sennacherib, was the dominant military power. Assyria had already conquered many nations, including the northern kingdom of Israel, and had devastated much of Judah. Now, Jerusalem was under siege.

Rabshakeh’s speech was part of a psychological warfare strategy, meant to weaken the morale of the people and persuade them to surrender without resistance. His comparison of the Lord to the gods of other nations reveals the Assyrians’ lack of understanding about Israel’s God. Later events in Isaiah 37 would demonstrate that the Lord is not only able to deliver Jerusalem but also far greater than any human power.

Theological Implications

Isaiah 36:20 highlights the uniqueness and sovereignty of God. Rabshakeh’s mistake was to equate the Lord with false gods, failing to recognize that He is the Creator and Sustainer of all things. This verse serves as a reminder that no human power or authority can challenge God’s plans or overcome His will.

Theologically, it also underscores the importance of trusting in God, even when circumstances seem dire. Rabshakeh’s arrogance and the apparent strength of Assyria might have seemed overwhelming, but God’s power is not limited by human perspectives or situations.

Literary Analysis

This verse uses rhetorical questions to mock the faith of Judah. The repetition of “Who…?” and “How then…?” is meant to sow doubt and create a sense of inevitability about Assyria’s victory. However, the irony of the verse becomes clear in the larger narrative, as God proves Rabshakeh wrong by miraculously delivering Jerusalem.

The verse contrasts human arrogance with divine sovereignty, setting the stage for a dramatic demonstration of God’s power. Rabshakeh’s words reveal his pride and ignorance, which are later humbled by God’s intervention.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Exodus 15:11: “Who among the gods is like you, Lord? Who is like you—majestic in holiness, awesome in glory, working wonders?” This highlights the Lord’s uniqueness and power.

• Psalm 115:3-8: This psalm contrasts the living God with the lifeless idols of the nations, showing that only God has power to act.

• Isaiah 37:36: This passage records the Lord’s deliverance of Jerusalem, proving Rabshakeh’s words false.

• Daniel 4:37: “Those who walk in pride he is able to humble.” This reflects the outcome of Rabshakeh’s arrogance.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, Isaiah 36:20 is a reminder to trust in God’s power and faithfulness, even when others question or mock Him. The world often dismisses faith in God, claiming that He is no different from other “gods” or that He is powerless to intervene in human affairs. This verse encourages believers to stand firm, knowing that God is sovereign and able to deliver His people.

It also challenges Christians to examine where they place their trust. Just as Rabshakeh relied on Assyria’s might, people today are tempted to trust in wealth, power, or human wisdom instead of God. This verse calls believers to put their confidence in the Lord alone.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Isaiah 36:20 demonstrates God’s love through His faithfulness to His people. While Rabshakeh mocks the Lord, God’s response later in the narrative shows His care and commitment to defending Jerusalem. His love is not diminished by human arrogance or doubt; instead, He acts to protect and deliver those who trust in Him.

This verse also reveals God’s patience. Despite Rabshakeh’s blasphemy, God allows events to unfold, giving the people of Jerusalem an opportunity to demonstrate their faith in Him. His love is evident in His desire for His people to rely on Him completely.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus embodies the power and faithfulness of God, providing ultimate deliverance from sin and death.

• John 14:6: Jesus declares, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” This affirms His uniqueness and power to save.

• Colossians 2:15: Jesus “disarmed the powers and authorities, making a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.” This parallels God’s victory over Assyria, showing that human power is no match for God’s plans.

• Matthew 28:18: Jesus says, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” This reflects His sovereignty over all nations and powers.

Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection prove that God is not like the powerless idols of the nations. He is the living God who saves and delivers His people.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

• How does Isaiah 36:20 challenge you to trust in God’s power and faithfulness?

• Have you ever faced situations where others questioned or mocked your faith in God? How did you respond?

• What are some modern “gods” or sources of security that people trust in instead of the Lord?

• How does Jesus’ victory over sin and death give you confidence in God’s ability to deliver?

• How can you encourage others to place their trust in the living God rather than in worldly powers or solutions?

Isaiah 36:20 reminds us that God is unique, sovereign, and faithful. It calls us to trust in Him completely, even in the face of challenges or opposition, knowing that He alone is able to save and deliver.