Judges 6:13

"Please, my Lord," Gideon replied, "if the LORD is with us, why has all this happened to us? And where are all His wonders of which our fathers told us, saying, 'Has not the LORD brought us up out of Egypt?' But now the LORD has forsaken us and delivered us into the hand of Midian."

Study Bible

Pardon me, my lord
Gideon's response begins with a polite address, "Pardon me, my lord," which reflects a tone of humility and respect. The Hebrew word for "lord" here is "adonai," often used to denote respect for someone of higher status. This phrase sets the stage for Gideon's honest and heartfelt questioning, showing his reverence even in doubt.

Gideon replied
The mention of Gideon by name is significant. Gideon, whose name means "hewer" or "one who cuts down," is a central figure in this narrative. His reply is not just a personal response but represents the collective cry of Israel. Historically, Gideon is seen as a judge and deliverer, chosen by God to lead Israel out of oppression.

but if the LORD is with us
This phrase introduces Gideon's doubt and confusion. The Hebrew word for "LORD" is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness. Gideon's question reflects a common human struggle to reconcile God's promises with present circumstances.

why has all this happened to us?
Gideon's question is a lament, echoing the cries of many throughout biblical history. The Israelites were suffering under Midianite oppression, and Gideon's question reflects a deep theological inquiry into the nature of suffering and divine presence. It challenges the reader to consider the mystery of God's ways and timing.

And where are all His wonders
Gideon refers to the miraculous acts of God, "His wonders," which are central to Israel's identity and history. The Hebrew word "pala" denotes extraordinary acts that reveal God's power and presence. This phrase underscores a longing for the tangible evidence of God's intervention, as experienced by previous generations.

of which our fathers told us
This phrase highlights the importance of oral tradition in Israelite culture. The accounts of God's past deliverance were passed down through generations, forming a collective memory and identity. Gideon's reference to "our fathers" connects him to the broader narrative of God's people and their history.

saying, 'Has not the LORD brought us up out of Egypt?'
Gideon recalls the foundational event of the Exodus, a defining moment of liberation and divine intervention. The phrase "brought us up out of Egypt" is a reminder of God's power and faithfulness. It serves as a benchmark for God's ability to save, making the current situation even more perplexing for Gideon.

But now the LORD has forsaken us
This statement reflects a deep sense of abandonment. The Hebrew word "azab" means to leave or forsake, and it captures the despair of feeling deserted by God. Gideon's words express a crisis of faith, a struggle to understand God's presence in the midst of suffering.

and delivered us into the hand of Midian
The phrase "delivered us into the hand of Midian" acknowledges the reality of Israel's oppression. The term "delivered" in Hebrew is "natan," meaning to give or hand over. This reflects the theological understanding that God, in His sovereignty, allowed this situation as a consequence of Israel's disobedience, yet it also sets the stage for divine deliverance through Gideon.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gideon
A judge of Israel, called by God to deliver the Israelites from the oppression of the Midianites. He is initially doubtful and questions God's presence and actions.

2. Angel of the LORD
A divine messenger who appears to Gideon, bringing a message of hope and deliverance. This figure often represents God's direct intervention in the Old Testament.

3. Midianites
A nomadic people who oppressed Israel during the time of Gideon, causing the Israelites to live in fear and poverty.

4. Ophrah
The location where the Angel of the LORD appears to Gideon, marking the beginning of Gideon's mission.

5. Israelites
The people of God, who are suffering under Midianite oppression due to their disobedience and idolatry.

Teaching Points

Questioning God in Times of Trouble
Gideon's question, "If the LORD is with us, why has all this happened to us?" (Judges 6:13), reflects a common human response to suffering. It's important to bring our doubts and questions to God, seeking His wisdom and understanding.

God's Presence Amidst Trials
Despite Gideon's doubts, the Angel of the LORD assures him of God's presence. This teaches us that God is with us even when circumstances seem dire.

Faith and Obedience
Gideon's account encourages us to move from doubt to faith, trusting in God's promises and obeying His call, even when we feel inadequate.

Divine Calling and Empowerment
God often calls the unlikely and equips them for His purposes. Like Gideon, we may feel weak, but God empowers us to fulfill His plans.

Repentance and Deliverance
The Israelites' oppression was a result of their disobedience. This reminds us of the importance of repentance and turning back to God for deliverance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Gideon's initial response to the Angel of the LORD reflect our own reactions to difficult situations, and what can we learn from his journey from doubt to faith?

2. In what ways does the account of Gideon parallel the calling of other biblical figures, and how does this reinforce the theme of divine empowerment?

3. How can we apply the lesson of God's presence in trials to our own lives, especially when we feel abandoned or overwhelmed?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that we are listening for and responding to God's call, even when we feel inadequate or unprepared?

5. How does the cycle of disobedience and deliverance in the book of Judges serve as a warning and a hope for us today in our spiritual walk?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3
Just as God called Moses to deliver Israel from Egypt, He calls Gideon to deliver them from the Midianites, showing a pattern of divine intervention through chosen leaders.

Hebrews 11
Gideon is listed among the heroes of faith, highlighting his eventual trust in God despite initial doubts.

Psalm 44
This psalm echoes the sentiment of questioning God's presence during times of trouble, similar to Gideon's initial response.