1. "On whom are you depending?" (1-10)

Isaiah puts this narrative section (36-39) as a bridge between prophecies regarding Assyrian invasion and prophecies regarding Babylonian captivity. The deliverance of Jerusalem by God gives hope to people in both times, and is a foreshadow of Jesus' ultimate victory. Assyria had already conquered Northern Israel, and all the cities of Judah, and now lay siege to Jerusalem. The field commander's words were intended to shake Hezekiah into surrender and submission to Sennacherib, who wanted a quick victory. Egypt could not save them. Assyria was God's instrument. On whom could Hezekiah depend?

2. "How can the LORD deliver Jerusalem?" (11-22)

Hezekiah was not shaken, but told his people: "The LORD will surely deliver us; this city will not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria." So the field commander challenged the people of the city, planting fear and doubt, trying to stir up rebellion against their king and blaspheming God. This is the way Satan works. But God's people did not listen to him, and trusted their king and God.