Judges 6:23

But the LORD said to him, "Peace be with you. Do not be afraid, for you will not die."

Study Bible

But the LORD said to him
This phrase introduces the divine communication from God to Gideon. The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal, self-existent nature and His faithfulness to His promises. In the context of Judges, God often speaks directly to His chosen leaders, providing guidance and reassurance. This divine interaction underscores the personal relationship God maintains with His people, even in times of national distress and personal doubt.

Peace be with you
The Hebrew word for "peace" is "shalom," which encompasses more than just the absence of conflict. It signifies completeness, welfare, and harmony. In the context of Gideon's fear after encountering the angel of the LORD, this assurance of peace is profound. It reflects God's desire to restore and reconcile, offering Gideon not just safety, but a holistic sense of well-being. This peace is a recurring theme in Scripture, pointing to the ultimate peace found in Christ, the Prince of Peace.

Do not be afraid
Fear is a natural human response to the divine, especially when confronted with the holiness and power of God. The Hebrew phrase here, "al-tira," is a common biblical exhortation, often accompanying divine revelations or commands. It serves to calm and encourage those called by God, reminding them of His presence and protection. This command not to fear is a testament to God's understanding of human frailty and His provision of strength and courage to those He calls.

for you will not die
In ancient Near Eastern culture, it was believed that seeing God or His angel could result in death due to the overwhelming holiness and glory of the divine presence. Gideon's fear of death upon realizing he had seen the angel of the LORD is thus culturally and theologically significant. God's assurance that Gideon will not die is a direct counter to this fear, highlighting God's grace and the protective nature of His calling. This promise of life is a precursor to the abundant life offered through faith in God, ultimately fulfilled in the New Testament through Jesus Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gideon
A judge of Israel, chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from the oppression of the Midianites. He is initially fearful and doubtful of his calling.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who appears to Gideon to commission him for a divine mission. His reassurance to Gideon is central to this passage.

3. Midianites
A nomadic people who oppressed Israel during the time of Gideon, causing the Israelites to cry out to God for deliverance.

4. Ophrah
The place where Gideon encounters the angel of the LORD and receives his commission. It becomes a significant location for Gideon's account.

5. Angel of the LORD
A manifestation of God who appears to Gideon, often understood as a theophany, or a visible appearance of God to humans.

Teaching Points

God's Reassurance in Fear
Just as God reassured Gideon, He reassures us in our fears. We can trust in His peace and presence in our lives.

Divine Calling and Human Doubt
Gideon's initial fear and doubt are common human responses to divine calling. God is patient and provides assurance.

Peace as a Gift from God
The peace God offers is not just the absence of fear but a profound sense of well-being and security in His presence.

God's Presence in Our Mission
Like Gideon, we are called to tasks that may seem daunting, but God's presence is our strength and assurance.

Transformation through Encounter
Gideon's encounter with God transforms him from a fearful individual to a leader. Our encounters with God can similarly transform us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Gideon's initial reaction to God's calling reflect our own responses to God's call in our lives?

2. In what ways can we experience the peace of God in our daily challenges, as Gideon did?

3. How does the reassurance "Do not be afraid, for you will not die" apply to our spiritual battles today?

4. What other biblical figures received reassurance from God in their moments of doubt, and how did it impact their mission?

5. How can we cultivate a deeper awareness of God's presence and peace in our lives, especially when facing fear or uncertainty?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3
The calling of Moses parallels Gideon's calling, where God reassures Moses of His presence and mission.

Isaiah 41:10
God's promise of peace and presence to His people, similar to His reassurance to Gideon.

Philippians 4:7
The peace of God that surpasses understanding, which is promised to believers, echoes the peace given to Gideon.