Historical Background Of Isaiah

Isaiah’s ministry spanned the rule of four kings of Judah (1:1). We also find historical markers throughout his book which pinpoint certain dates for us—his call to be a prophet in the year that king Uzziah died, the Syro-Ephraimitic War (7:1), the year king Ahaz died, the year Sargon of Assyria conquered Ashdod, a chief city of Philistia (20:1), and Sennacherib’s siege against Jerusalem (36:1).

Reign Of Uzziah (740 BC)—Judah attained its highest degree of prosperity since the time of Solomon (2 Kings;14:22; 2 Chronicles 26).

Reign Of Jotham (750-732 BC)—He continued with the building and fortification of the capital begun by his father (2 Kings 15:35; 2 Chronicles 27:3).

Reign Of Ahaz (736-716 BC)—When Pekah, king of Israel and Rezin, king of Damascus planned an alliance
against Assyria, Ahaz, king of Judah refused to join their confederacy. In response they tried to dethrone him. The
ensuing struggle became known as the Syro-Ephraimitic War (734 BC). Judah was brought very low and Ahaz sent to Tiglath-Pileser, king of Assyria for help (Isaiah 7). He received rich rewards from Ahaz because of his help (2 Kings 16:7-9; Isaiah 9:1).

Reign Of Hezekiah (716-687 BC)—In response to the captivity of the northern kingdom, Hezekiah began his reign
in Judah with a reformation (2 Kings 18:4). Judah barely escaped captivity herself and paid rich tribute to
Assyria. When Sargon was assassinated and Sennacherib came to the throne (705 BC), Hezekiah refused to pay
tribute any more (2 Kings 18:7). Consequently Sennacherib marched westward with a large army, overrunning
nations and cities until even Jerusalem was besieged (2 Kings 18:17-19:8; Isaiah 36:2-37:8).

Through the influence of the prophet Isaiah, the prayers of Hezekiah, and the angel who smote 185,000 soldiers in
the Assyrian army, the kingdom of Judah withstood.

Message Of Isaiah

The first half of Isaiah’s prophecies deal with God’s judgment. It is summarized in the statement, “Come now and let us reason together, says the Lord…”. The second section of Isaiah’s prophecies deals with God’s comfort for His people after the exile, and ultimately in the Messiah. It is summarized in the statement “Fear not for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (41:10).