"Who did this?" they said to one another. And after they had investigated thoroughly, they were told, "Gideon son of Joash did it." Who did this?This phrase reflects the immediate reaction of the townspeople upon discovering the destruction of the altar of Baal. The Hebrew root for "who" (מִי, mi) is a common interrogative pronoun, indicating a search for identity and responsibility. In the context of ancient Israel, where community and familial ties were strong, such a question underscores the gravity of the act. The destruction of a communal religious symbol would have been seen as a direct challenge to the prevailing social and religious order. they asked one another
The phrase suggests a communal inquiry, highlighting the collective nature of the society. In ancient Israel, decisions and investigations were often communal, reflecting the tribal and familial structures. This communal approach is consistent with the Hebrew culture, where elders and leaders would gather to discuss and resolve issues. The act of asking "one another" indicates a shared concern and a desire for accountability within the community. And after they had investigated thoroughly
The thorough investigation implies a methodical and serious approach to uncovering the truth. The Hebrew root for "investigated" (דָּרַשׁ, darash) means to seek, inquire, or require. This reflects the importance of justice and truth in the community. The investigation would have involved questioning witnesses, examining evidence, and possibly consulting with local leaders or elders. This process underscores the seriousness of the offense and the community's commitment to maintaining order and religious fidelity. they concluded
The conclusion reached by the townspeople indicates a definitive decision. The Hebrew root for "concluded" (אָמַר, amar) can mean to say, speak, or declare. This suggests that the investigation led to a clear and authoritative statement. In the context of ancient Israel, such a conclusion would carry significant weight, potentially leading to social or legal consequences for the individual identified. Gideon son of Joash did it
This identification of Gideon as the perpetrator is pivotal in the narrative. Gideon, whose name in Hebrew (גִּדְעוֹן, Gid'on) means "hewer" or "one who cuts down," is identified as the one who destroyed the altar of Baal. This act of defiance against idolatry marks the beginning of Gideon's role as a judge and deliverer of Israel. The mention of "son of Joash" situates Gideon within his family and tribal context, emphasizing the personal and communal implications of his actions. Joash, as the head of the family, would have been directly affected by his son's actions, highlighting the tension between familial loyalty and religious conviction. This moment sets the stage for Gideon's divine calling and the subsequent deliverance of Israel from Midianite oppression, illustrating the theme of God using unlikely individuals to fulfill His purposes. Persons / Places / Events 1. GideonA judge of Israel, chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from the oppression of the Midianites. Known for his initial hesitance and later faithfulness. 2. JoashGideon's father, who owned the altar to Baal that Gideon destroyed. His reaction to Gideon's actions is significant in the account. 3. The IsraelitesThe people of God, who were oppressed by the Midianites due to their disobedience and idolatry. 4. The Altar of BaalA symbol of Israel's idolatry and unfaithfulness to God. Its destruction by Gideon marks a turning point in Israel's return to God. 5. The MidianitesOppressors of Israel, used by God as a means of discipline for Israel's idolatry and disobedience. Teaching Points Courage in ObedienceGideon's actions remind us that obeying God often requires courage, especially when it goes against cultural norms or family expectations. The Importance of Investigating TruthThe Israelites' investigation into the destruction of the altar shows the importance of seeking truth and understanding the reasons behind actions. God's Use of Imperfect PeopleGideon was initially hesitant and fearful, yet God used him mightily. This encourages us that God can use us despite our weaknesses. Confronting IdolatryJust as Gideon confronted the physical idols of his time, we are called to confront and remove any idols in our lives, whether they be material, relational, or ideological. Faith in ActionGideon's account is a testament to putting faith into action, trusting that God will provide strength and guidance when we step out in faith. Bible Study Questions 1. What does Gideon's initial fear and eventual obedience teach us about dealing with our own fears when God calls us to act? 2. How can we identify and confront modern-day idols in our lives, similar to how Gideon destroyed the altar of Baal? 3. In what ways does the account of Gideon encourage us to seek God's truth and direction in our lives, especially when faced with difficult decisions? 4. How does Gideon's account connect with other biblical figures who showed faith in the face of opposition, and what can we learn from their examples? 5. 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? Connections to Other Scriptures Exodus 20:3-5The commandment against idolatry, which Gideon's actions directly support by destroying the altar of Baal. 1 Kings 18:21-40Elijah's confrontation with the prophets of Baal, showing a similar zeal for the Lord and rejection of idolatry. Hebrews 11:32-34Gideon is mentioned in the "Hall of Faith," highlighting his role as a man of faith despite his initial doubts. | Divine Mercy: its Adaptation and Sufficiency | A.F. Muir | Judges 6:7, 8, 11, 34 | | The First Work | A.F. Muir | Judges 6:25-30 | | Baal's Altar Destroyed | F. Elwin. | Judges 6:25-32 | | Daring to Oppose Wrong | J. D. Jones. | Judges 6:25-32 | | Gideon's Reformation not Destructive Only | R. A. Watson, M. A. | Judges 6:25-32 | | On the Destruction of Idols | R. A. Watson, M. A. | Judges 6:25-32 | | Reform At Home | C. Leach, D. D. | Judges 6:25-32 | | Religion Judged by Results | C. Leach, D. D. | Judges 6:25-32 | | The Valorous Assault | G. A. Rogers, M. A. | Judges 6:25-32 | | The Way to Deal with Public Abuses | W. W. Duncan, M. A. | Judges 6:25-32 | | Who Hath Done This Thing? | A.F. Muir | Judges 6:29, 30 |
People Abiezer, Abiezrites, Amalek, Amalekites, Amorites, Asher, Egyptians, Ephah, Gideon, Israelites, Jerubbaal, Jezreel, Joash, Manasseh, Midianites, Naphtali, Ophrah, ZebulunPlaces Egypt, Gaza, Jezreel Valley, Jordan River, Midian, OphrahTopics Care, Gideon, Inquire, Inquired, Investigated, Joash, Jo'ash, Search, Searched, Searching, SeekDictionary of Bible Themes Judges 6:25-32 8747 false gods Library Gideon's Altar
'Then Gideon built an altar there unto the Lord, and called it Jehovah- shalom [God is peace].'--JUDGES vi. 24. I need not tell over again, less vividly, the picturesque story in this chapter, of the simple husbandman up in the hills, engaged furtively in threshing out a little wheat in some hollow in the rock where he might hide it from the keen eyes of the oppressors; and of how the angel of the Lord, unrecognised at first, appeared to him; and gradually there dawned upon his mind the suspicion …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScriptureGideon's Fleece
'Behold, I will put a fleece of wool in the floor; and if the dew be on the fleece only, and it be dry upon all the earth beside, then shall I know that Thou wilt save Israel by mine hand, as Thou hast said.'-- JUDGES vi. 37. The decisive moment had come when Gideon, with his hastily gathered raw levies, was about to plunge down to the plain to face immensely superior forces trained to warfare. No wonder that the equally untrained leader's heart heat faster. Many a soldier, who will be steadfastly …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Jehovam-Shalem, the Lord Send Peace. Judg 6:24
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John Newton—Olney Hymns Whether it is a Sin to Tempt God?
Objection 1: It would seem that it is not a sin to tempt God. For God has not commanded sin. Yet He has commanded men to try, which is the same as to tempt, Him: for it is written (Malach. 3:10): "Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in My house; and try Me in this, saith the Lord, if I open not unto you the flood-gates of heaven." Therefore it seems not to be a sin to tempt God. Objection 2: Further, a man is tempted not only in order to test his knowledge and his power, …
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica Man Now Deprived of Freedom of Will, and Miserably Enslaved.
1. Connection of the previous with the four following chapters. In order to lay a proper foundation for the discussion of free will, two obstacles in the way to be removed--viz. sloth and pride. The basis and sum of the whole discussion. The solid structure of this basis, and a clear demonstration of it by the argument a majori ad minus. Also from the inconveniences and absurdities arising from the obstacle of pride. 2. The second part of the chapter containing the opinions of others. 1. The opinions …
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion The Unity of the Divine Essence in Three Persons Taught, in Scripture, from the Foundation of the World.
1. Scripture, in teaching that the essence of God is immense and spiritual, refutes not only idolaters and the foolish wisdom of the world, but also the Manichees and Anthropomorphites. These latter briefly refuted. 2. In this one essence are three persons, yet so that neither is there a triple God, nor is the simple essence of God divided. Meaning of the word Person in this discussion. Three hypostases in God, or the essence of God. 3. Objection of those who, in this discussion, reject the use of …
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion Subterraneous Places. Mines. Caves.
Thus having taken some notice of the superficies of the land, let us a little search into its bowels. You may divide the subterraneous country into three parts: the metal mines, the caves, and the places of burial. This land was eminently noted for metal mines, so that "its stones," in very many places, "were iron, and out of its hills was digged brass," Deuteronomy 8:9. From these gain accrued to the Jews: but to the Christians, not seldom slavery and misery; being frequently condemned hither by …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica Jesus Calls Four Fishermen to Follow Him.
(Sea of Galilee, Near Capernaum.) ^A Matt. IV. 18-22; ^B Mark I. 16-20; ^C Luke V. 1-11. ^a 18 And walking ^b 16 And passing along by the sea of Galilee [This lake is a pear-shaped body of water, about twelve and a half miles long and about seven miles across at its widest place. It is 682 feet below sea level; its waters are fresh, clear and abounding in fish, and it is surrounded by hills and mountains, which rise from 600 to 1,000 feet above it. Its greatest depth is about 165 feet], he [Jesus] …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel Of the Sacraments.
1. Of the sacraments in general. A sacrament defined. 2. Meaning of the word sacrament. 3. Definition explained. Why God seals his promises to us by sacraments. 4. The word which ought to accompany the element, that the sacrament may be complete. 5. Error of those who attempt to separate the word, or promise of God, from the element. 6. Why sacraments are called Signs of the Covenant. 7. They are such signs, though the wicked should receive them, but are signs of grace only to believers. 8. Objections …
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion The Doctrine of God
I. THE EXISTENCE OF GOD: (Vs. Atheism). 1. ASSUMED BY THE SCRIPTURES. 2. PROOFS OF THE EXISTENCE OF GOD. a) Universal belief in the Existence of God. b) Cosmological:--Argument from Cause. c) Teleological:--Argument from Design. d) Ontological:--Argument from Being. e) Anthropological:--Moral Argument. f) Argument from Congruity. g) Argument from Scripture. II. THE NATURE OF GOD: (Vs. Agnosticism) 1. THE SPIRITUALITY OF GOD: (Vs. Materialism). 2. THE PERSONALITY OF GOD: (Vs. Pantheism). 3. THE UNITY …
Rev. William Evans—The Great Doctrines of the Bible And thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, too little to be among the thousands of Judah
"And thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, too little to be among the thousands of Judah, out of thee shall come forth unto Me (one) [Pg 480] to be Ruler in Israel; and His goings forth are the times of old, the days of eternity." The close connection of this verse with what immediately precedes (Caspari is wrong in considering iv. 9-14 as an episode) is evident, not only from the [Hebrew: v] copulative, and from the analogy of the near relation of the announcement of salvation to the prophecy of disaster …
Ernst Wilhelm Hengstenberg—Christology of the Old Testament Seasonable Counsel: Or, Advice to Sufferers.
BY JOHN BUNYAN. London: Printed for Benjamin Alsop, at the Angel and Bible in the Poultry, 1684. ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR. THIS valuable treatise was first published in a pocket volume in 1684, and has only been reprinted in Whitfield's edition of Bunyan's works, 2 vols. folio, 1767. No man could have been better qualified to give advice to sufferers for righteousness' sake, than John Bunyan: and this work is exclusively devoted to that object. Shut up in a noisome jail, under the iron hand of …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 Judges
For the understanding of the early history and religion of Israel, the book of Judges, which covers the period from the death of Joshua to the beginning of the struggle with the Philistines, is of inestimable importance; and it is very fortunate that the elements contributed by the later editors are so easily separated from the ancient stories whose moral they seek to point. That moral is most elaborately stated in ii. 6-iii. 6, which is a sort of programme or preface to iii. 7-xvi. 31, which constitutes …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Judges 6:29 NIVJudges 6:29 NLTJudges 6:29 ESVJudges 6:29 NASBJudges 6:29 KJV
Judges 6:29 Commentaries
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