Judges 6:11

Then the angel of the LORD came and sat down under the oak in Ophrah that belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, where his son Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress to hide it from the Midianites.

Study Bible

Then the angel of the LORD
The phrase "angel of the LORD" is significant in the Old Testament, often indicating a theophany, or a visible manifestation of God Himself. The Hebrew word for "angel" is "mal'ak," which means "messenger." In this context, it suggests a divine messenger with a special commission. The presence of the angel signifies God's direct intervention in the affairs of Israel, highlighting His concern and readiness to deliver His people from oppression.

came and sat down
The action of sitting down underlines the angel's intention to engage in a significant encounter. In ancient Near Eastern culture, sitting was often associated with teaching or delivering an important message. This posture indicates a moment of divine revelation and instruction, preparing Gideon for his calling.

under the oak in Ophrah
The oak tree, or "elon" in Hebrew, is often a symbol of strength and endurance. Oaks were common sites for significant events and divine encounters in the Bible. Ophrah, a town in the territory of Manasseh, becomes a place of divine visitation. This setting emphasizes the sacredness of the encounter and the transformation about to occur in Gideon's life.

that belonged to Joash the Abiezrite
Joash, Gideon's father, is identified as an Abiezrite, a clan within the tribe of Manasseh. This detail roots the narrative in a specific historical and familial context, emphasizing the personal nature of God's call. The Abiezrites were part of the larger Israelite community suffering under Midianite oppression, making Gideon's call to deliverance deeply personal and communal.

where his son Gideon
Gideon, whose name means "hewer" or "one who cuts down," is introduced as the central figure in this narrative. His name foreshadows his role in cutting down the oppression of the Midianites. Gideon's initial appearance in the account is humble, yet it sets the stage for his transformation into a mighty warrior under God's guidance.

was threshing wheat in a winepress
Threshing wheat in a winepress is an unusual and inefficient method, highlighting the desperate circumstances. Normally, wheat was threshed in open spaces to allow the wind to separate the chaff. The winepress, typically a sunken area, was used to hide from the Midianites, illustrating the fear and oppression experienced by the Israelites.

to hide it from the Midianites
The Midianites were a nomadic people who oppressed Israel during this period, as described earlier in Judges 6. Their raids left Israel impoverished and fearful. Gideon's actions reflect the dire situation and the need for divine intervention. This context sets the stage for God's deliverance through Gideon, emphasizing His power to save even in the most desperate circumstances.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Angel of the LORD
A divine messenger, often considered a theophany, or a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ in the Old Testament. The angel's presence signifies God's direct intervention in Israel's plight.

2. Ophrah
A town in the territory of Manasseh, significant as the setting for Gideon's calling. It is a place of divine encounter and revelation.

3. Joash the Abiezrite
Gideon's father, a member of the Abiezrite clan, which is part of the tribe of Manasseh. His household is central to the account of Gideon's rise.

4. Gideon
The central figure in this passage, Gideon is called by God to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Midianites. His initial actions reveal his cautious and pragmatic nature.

5. The Midianites
A nomadic people who oppressed Israel during this period. Their raids led to severe hardship for the Israelites, prompting divine intervention.

Teaching Points

Divine Presence in Ordinary Places
God often meets us in the mundane aspects of life, as He did with Gideon in the winepress. We should be attentive to God's presence in our daily routines.

Courage in the Face of Fear
Gideon's initial fear and hiding reflect our own struggles with fear. Yet, God calls us to step out in faith, trusting in His strength rather than our own.

God's Use of the Unlikely
Gideon was not a mighty warrior by human standards, yet God chose him. This teaches us that God often uses those who seem least likely to accomplish His purposes.

Faith and Obedience
Gideon's account encourages us to act in faith, even when we feel inadequate. Obedience to God's call is crucial, regardless of our perceived limitations.

God's Deliverance
Just as God delivered Israel through Gideon, He delivers us from our spiritual enemies. We are reminded of God's power to save and His faithfulness to His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the setting of Gideon's calling (threshing wheat in a winepress) reflect his state of mind and the condition of Israel at the time?

2. In what ways does the appearance of the angel of the LORD to Gideon parallel other divine encounters in the Bible, and what can we learn from these parallels?

3. How does Gideon's initial reaction to God's call challenge or encourage you in your own walk of faith?

4. Reflect on a time when you felt inadequate for a task God called you to. How does Gideon's account inspire you to trust in God's strength rather than your own?

5. How can we apply the lesson of God's deliverance in Gideon's account to our understanding of spiritual warfare and victory in Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3
The appearance of the angel of the LORD to Moses in the burning bush parallels Gideon's encounter, highlighting God's pattern of calling unlikely leaders to deliver His people.

Hebrews 11
Gideon is listed among the heroes of faith, demonstrating that despite his initial fear and doubt, he ultimately trusted in God's power and fulfilled his calling.

Psalm 34
This psalm speaks of God's deliverance and protection, themes that resonate with Gideon's account as he is called to deliver Israel from their enemies.