2 Kings 18:20
Thou sayest, (but they are but vain words,) I have counsel and strength for the war. Now on whom dost thou trust, that thou rebellest against me?
2 Kings 18:20 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of 2 Kings highlights the arrogance of a commander named Rabshakeh, who was sent by King Sennacherib of Assyria to taunt and intimidate the people of Jerusalem. Rabshakeh boasts about his counsel and strength for war, questioning the people of Jerusalem about who they trust and why they would rebel against his king. The verse serves as a warning against trusting in human strength and wisdom rather than relying on God. It reminds readers that true power and security come from trusting in the Lord, not in our own abilities or the promises of worldly leaders.
Theological Overview
One possible theological interpretation of this verse is that it highlights the folly of trusting in human strength and wisdom rather than relying on God. The speaker questions who the rebellious individual trusts in for counsel and strength in the face of war. By emphasizing the emptiness of human words and abilities alone, the verse suggests that true counsel and strength can only come from God. This challenges the reader to examine their own sources of trust and to consider whether they are placing their faith in worldly wisdom or in the wisdom of God.
2 Kings 18:20 in other translations
American Standard Version
Thou sayest (but they are but vain words), [There is] counsel and strength for the war. Now on whom dost thou trust, that thou hast rebelled against me?
World English Bible
You say (but they are but vain words), ‘There is counsel and strength for war.’ Now on whom do you trust, that you have rebelled against me?
Douay-Rheims
Perhaps thou hast taken counsel, to prepare thyself for battle. On whom dost thou trust, that thou darest to rebel?
Geneva Bible (1599)
Thou thinkest, Surely I haue eloquence, but counsell and strength are for the warre. On whom then doest thou trust, that thou rebellest against me?