Judges 11:29

Then the Spirit of the LORD came upon Jephthah, and he passed through Gilead and Manasseh, then through Mizpah of Gilead. And from there he advanced against the Ammonites.

Study Bible

Then the Spirit of the LORD came upon Jephthah
Then
The word "then" serves as a pivotal transition in the narrative, indicating a significant change or development in the story. It suggests that the events leading up to this moment have prepared the way for what is about to occur. In the context of Judges, this transition often marks the moment when God intervenes in the lives of the judges, empowering them for the tasks ahead. It is a reminder that God's timing is perfect, and His interventions are always at the right moment.

the Spirit of the LORD
The phrase "the Spirit of the LORD" refers to the divine presence and power of God that comes upon individuals to enable them to accomplish His purposes. In Hebrew, the word for "spirit" is "ruach," which can mean breath, wind, or spirit. This indicates a dynamic and life-giving force. In the Old Testament, the Spirit of the LORD coming upon someone is often associated with empowerment for leadership, prophecy, or deliverance. It is a testament to God's active involvement in the world and His willingness to equip His chosen servants with the necessary strength and wisdom.

came upon
The phrase "came upon" suggests a sudden and powerful endowment of divine power. It implies that Jephthah was not acting on his own strength or wisdom but was being guided and empowered by God. This divine empowerment is a recurring theme in the book of Judges, where God raises up leaders to deliver Israel from oppression. It underscores the idea that true leadership and victory come not from human ability but from reliance on God's Spirit.

Jephthah
Jephthah is a complex and intriguing figure in the book of Judges. He is introduced as a mighty warrior, yet his background is marked by rejection and hardship, being the son of a prostitute and driven away by his half-brothers. Despite his difficult past, God chooses him to lead Israel against the Ammonites. This choice highlights a recurring biblical theme: God often uses unlikely and marginalized individuals to accomplish His purposes. Jephthah's account is a powerful reminder that God's call and empowerment can transcend human limitations and societal judgments.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jephthah
A judge of Israel, known for his leadership and vow. He was the son of Gilead and a harlot, initially rejected by his family but later called to lead Israel against the Ammonites.

2. Spirit of the LORD
Refers to the divine empowerment given to individuals in the Old Testament for specific tasks. In this context, it signifies God's presence and empowerment of Jephthah for battle.

3. Gilead
A region east of the Jordan River, known for its balm and rugged terrain. It was Jephthah's homeland and a significant area in Israel's history.

4. Manasseh
One of the tribes of Israel, located partly in the region of Gilead. Jephthah's journey through Manasseh indicates the gathering of support and preparation for battle.

5. Mizpah of Gilead
A city in Gilead where Jephthah likely gathered his forces. Mizpah often served as a place of assembly and decision-making in Israel's history.

6. Ammonites
A neighboring nation and frequent adversary of Israel. The conflict with the Ammonites was a significant event during Jephthah's judgeship.

Teaching Points

Divine Empowerment
Just as the Spirit of the LORD empowered Jephthah, believers today are empowered by the Holy Spirit to fulfill God's purposes in their lives.

God's Sovereignty
Despite Jephthah's background and initial rejection, God chose him for a significant task, demonstrating that God can use anyone for His glory.

Preparation and Obedience
Jephthah's journey through Gilead and Manasseh signifies preparation and obedience. Believers are called to prepare and be obedient to God's leading in their lives.

Faith in Action
Jephthah's advance against the Ammonites shows faith in action. Believers are encouraged to step out in faith, trusting in God's empowerment and guidance.

Community and Support
Jephthah's gathering of support from Gilead and Manasseh highlights the importance of community and support in fulfilling God's mission.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the empowerment of the Spirit of the LORD in the Old Testament compare to the empowerment of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty in choosing and using individuals for His purposes, despite their backgrounds or past rejections?

3. What steps can we take to ensure we are prepared and obedient to God's calling in our lives, as Jephthah was?

4. How can we actively demonstrate faith in action in our daily lives, following Jephthah's example of advancing against the Ammonites?

5. Why is community and support important in fulfilling God's mission, and how can we cultivate this in our own church or fellowship groups?

Connections to Other Scriptures

The empowerment by the Spirit of the LORD is a recurring theme in the Book of Judges, seen in the lives of other judges like Gideon and Samson. This highlights God's direct intervention in Israel's deliverance.

Jephthah's account connects to the broader account of Israel's cyclical pattern of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance, as seen throughout the Book of Judges.

The concept of the Spirit of the LORD coming upon individuals is further explored in the New Testament, where believers are empowered by the Holy Spirit for ministry and witness.