Judges 8:35

They did not show kindness to the house of Jerubbaal (that is, Gideon) for all the good things he had done for Israel.

Study Bible

They did not show kindness
The phrase "did not show kindness" is rooted in the Hebrew word "chesed," which often translates to loving-kindness, mercy, or loyalty. In the context of ancient Israel, "chesed" was a covenantal term, implying a deep, steadfast love and faithfulness that was expected within the community of God's people. The absence of "chesed" here indicates a significant moral and spiritual failure on the part of the Israelites. Despite the deliverance and peace Gideon brought to Israel, the people failed to reciprocate with gratitude or loyalty, highlighting a recurring theme in Judges of Israel's forgetfulness and ingratitude towards God's appointed leaders.

to the house of Jerubbaal
"Jerubbaal" is another name for Gideon, meaning "let Baal contend against him." This name was given to Gideon after he destroyed the altar of Baal, signifying his role as a reformer and a warrior against idolatry. The "house of Jerubbaal" refers to Gideon's family and descendants. The lack of kindness towards his house underscores the Israelites' neglect of their duty to honor and support the family of their deliverer. This neglect reflects a broader societal decay, where personal and communal responsibilities are disregarded.

(that is, Gideon)
The parenthetical clarification "(that is, Gideon)" serves to remind the reader of Gideon's identity and his significant contributions to Israel. Gideon was a judge raised by God to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Midianites. His account is one of faith, courage, and divine intervention. By reiterating his name, the text emphasizes the personal nature of the ingratitude shown by the Israelites, as they failed to honor the very man who had been instrumental in their salvation.

for all the good he had done for Israel
The phrase "for all the good he had done for Israel" highlights the tangible benefits and peace Gideon brought to the nation. His leadership resulted in forty years of peace, a significant period in the tumultuous history of the Judges. The "good" refers not only to military victories but also to the spiritual and social stability he provided. This phrase serves as a poignant reminder of the human tendency to overlook past blessings and the importance of remembering and honoring those who have contributed to our well-being. The Israelites' failure to acknowledge Gideon's contributions is a cautionary tale about the dangers of ingratitude and the erosion of communal values.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gideon (Jerubbaal)
A judge of Israel who led the Israelites to victory against the Midianites. He is also known as Jerubbaal, which means "Let Baal contend against him," reflecting his stand against idolatry.

2. House of Jerubbaal
Refers to Gideon's family and descendants. Despite Gideon's leadership and deliverance of Israel, his family was not shown gratitude or loyalty by the Israelites.

3. Israel
The nation that Gideon delivered from the oppression of the Midianites. The people of Israel failed to remember and honor the contributions of Gideon and his family.

4. Midianites
The oppressors of Israel during Gideon's time. Gideon's victory over them was a significant event in Israel's history, showcasing God's deliverance through Gideon.

5. Shechem
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, Shechem is a significant location in the account of Judges, particularly in the events following Gideon's death, where Abimelech, Gideon's son, sought power.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Gratitude
Recognize and express gratitude for those whom God uses to bless and lead us. Ingratitude can lead to a cycle of forgetfulness and disobedience.

Legacy and Honor
Consider how we honor the legacy of those who have gone before us in faith. Reflect on how we can support and uphold the families and ministries of those who have served faithfully.

The Consequences of Forgetfulness
Understand that failing to remember and honor God's work through His servants can lead to spiritual decline and societal instability.

God's Faithfulness vs. Human Forgetfulness
While humans often forget the good done for them, God remains faithful. Trust in His unchanging nature and strive to emulate His faithfulness in our relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the ingratitude shown to Gideon's family reflect the broader spiritual condition of Israel at the time?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we do not forget the contributions of those who have led and served us in our spiritual journey?

3. How does the account of Gideon challenge us to respond to God's calling, even when recognition and gratitude are not guaranteed?

4. What are some practical ways we can show kindness and support to the families of those who have served faithfully in ministry?

5. How can the themes of gratitude and remembrance in Judges 8:35 be applied to our personal and communal worship practices today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 6-7
These chapters provide the background of Gideon's call by God, his destruction of the altar of Baal, and his leadership in defeating the Midianites, setting the stage for the ingratitude shown in Judges 8:35.

1 Samuel 12
Samuel recounts the history of Israel, including Gideon's role, reminding the people of God's deliverance through judges like Gideon, and highlighting the recurring theme of Israel's forgetfulness and ingratitude.

Luke 17:11-19
The account of the ten lepers healed by Jesus, where only one returns to give thanks, parallels the theme of ingratitude and the importance of recognizing and appreciating God's work through His servants.