◄ Judges 6 ►
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Summary The Call of Gideon The chapter of Judges 6 beautifully portrays the journey from doubt to faith. It reassures us that God, in His infinite mercy, remains patient with our doubts and fears, providing the reassurance we need. It reminds us that even in times of disobedience, if we sincerely repent, God will hear and deliver us. Finally, Gideon's story reminds us that greatness is not a birthright; God's call can elevate the humblest among us to serve His purpose. Verses 1-6: The Oppression by Midianites The Israelites, having forsaken the Lord, found themselves under the oppressive rule of the Midianites for seven years. Their crops and livestock were ravaged, forcing them to hide in mountains and caves. Verses 7-10: The Prophet’s Message God sends a prophet to remind the Israelites of His past deliverances and their current disobedience, reiterating that they should not worship other gods. Verses 11-24: The Calling of Gideon The Angel of the Lord appears to Gideon, initially an unassuming farmer, and calls him a "mighty warrior," prophesying that he will save Israel from the Midianites. Doubtful, Gideon asks for a sign, which the Angel provides by setting fire to a sacrificial offering. Gideon recognizes the divine nature of his visitor, but the Lord reassures him, "Peace! Do not be afraid." Verses 25-32: Destruction of the Altar of Baal God commands Gideon to destroy the local altar of Baal and erect an altar to God. Despite fear, Gideon complies, earning him the name Jerub-Baal, meaning "Let Baal contend against him." Verses 33-40: Gideon’s Request for Signs The Midianites and their allies gather for war, prompting Gideon to ask God for a sign of victory, using a fleece of wool. God grants the sign, not once but twice, reassuring Gideon of His presence and His promise. Judges 6 narrates a crucial period in the history of Israel, an era of oppression, doubt, faith, and ultimately, divine intervention. The chapter unfolds the tale of Gideon, a man of humble origins, who rises from the threshing floor to become a judge of Israel under God’s divine guidance. It outlines the Israelites' plight under Midianite oppression due to their disobedience, their cry for deliverance, the calling of Gideon, his tests of faith, and his preparation for war against the oppressors. Teaching Points Israel's Oppression and Cry for Help Judges 6:1-6 describes how the Israelites did evil in the sight of the Lord, leading to seven years of Midianite oppression. This cycle of sin and suffering prompts the Israelites to cry out to God for deliverance. God's Response through a Prophet In Judges 6:7-10, God sends a prophet to remind Israel of His past faithfulness and their disobedience, setting the stage for their deliverance. Gideon's Call Judges 6:11-16 introduces Gideon, who is found threshing wheat in a winepress to hide from the Midianites. The Angel of the Lord appears to him, calling him a mighty warrior and assuring him of God's presence. Gideon's Doubts and God's Assurance Despite his doubts and feelings of inadequacy, Gideon is reassured by God in Judges 6:17-24. He asks for a sign, and God graciously provides it, confirming His promise. Gideon's Obedience and Boldness In Judges 6:25-32, Gideon obeys God's command to tear down his father's altar to Baal, demonstrating his growing faith and courage. The Gathering of the Troops Judges 6:33-35 shows Gideon rallying the Israelites for battle, empowered by the Spirit of the Lord. The Sign of the Fleece In Judges 6:36-40, Gideon seeks further confirmation from God through the sign of the fleece, highlighting his desire for assurance and God's patience with our doubts. Practical Applications Trust in God's Presence Like Gideon, we may feel inadequate, but God promises to be with us in our battles. Trust in His presence and strength. Obedience in Small Steps Gideon's journey began with small acts of obedience. Start with what God has placed before you, and He will guide you to greater tasks. Seek God's Assurance It's natural to seek confirmation from God. Approach Him in prayer and through His Word for guidance and assurance. Boldness in Faith Gideon's story encourages us to step out in faith, even when we feel afraid. God equips those He calls. People 1. The Israelites The collective group of God's chosen people who are oppressed by the Midianites due to their disobedience to God. The term "Israelites" comes from the Hebrew "יִשְׂרָאֵל" (Yisra'el), meaning "God contends" or "one who struggles with God." 2. The Midianites A nomadic people who oppress the Israelites for seven years. The name "Midianites" comes from the Hebrew "מִדְיָנִים" (Midyanim), which is derived from "מִדְיָן" (Midyan), meaning "strife" or "contention." 3. Gideon The son of Joash, called by God to deliver Israel from the Midianites. His name in Hebrew is "גִּדְעוֹן" (Gid'on), meaning "hewer" or "one who cuts down." 4. Joash The father of Gideon, a member of the Abiezrite clan. His name in Hebrew is "יוֹאָשׁ" (Yo'ash), meaning "Yahweh has given." 5. The Angel of the LORD A divine messenger who appears to Gideon to commission him as a deliverer for Israel. In Hebrew, "מַלְאַךְ יְהוָה" (Mal'akh YHWH) is used, meaning "messenger of Yahweh." 6. The LORD (Yahweh) The covenant name of God, who speaks to Gideon and guides him. The name "Yahweh" is represented in Hebrew as "יְהוָה" (YHWH), often translated as "LORD" in English Bibles. 7. The Amalekites Another group of people who, along with the Midianites, oppress the Israelites. The name "Amalekites" comes from the Hebrew "עֲמָלֵקִי" (Amaleqi), derived from "עֲמָלֵק" (Amalek), meaning "dweller in a valley." 8. The People of the East A general term for other nomadic tribes that join the Midianites and Amalekites in oppressing Israel. The Hebrew term "בְּנֵי קֶדֶם" (B'nei Kedem) means "sons of the east." Places 1. Midian The Midianites are the oppressors of Israel in Judges 6. They are described as a nomadic people who, along with the Amalekites and other eastern peoples, invade and devastate the land of Israel. The name "Midian" (מִדְיָן) in Hebrew is associated with strife or contention. 2. Ophrah This is the hometown of Gideon, where the Angel of the LORD appears to him. It is located in the territory of the tribe of Manasseh. The Hebrew name "Ophrah" (עָפְרָה) means "fawn" or "dust." 3. Joash's House The specific location where Gideon is found threshing wheat in a winepress to hide it from the Midianites. This is also where the Angel of the LORD appears to him. 4. The Rock at Ophrah The place where Gideon prepares an offering for the Angel of the LORD, who then causes fire to spring up from the rock to consume the offering. 5. The Altar of Baal Located in Ophrah, this altar is torn down by Gideon at the LORD's command. It signifies the idolatry present in Israel at the time. 6. The Asherah Pole Also located in Ophrah, near the altar of Baal. Gideon cuts it down as part of his act of obedience to God. 7. The Spring of Harod Although not directly mentioned in Judges 6, it is relevant as the place where Gideon later gathers his troops in Judges 7. It is located near the Hill of Moreh. Events 1. Israel's Oppression by Midian The Israelites did evil in the sight of the LORD, leading to their oppression by the Midianites for seven years. The Midianites, along with the Amalekites and other eastern peoples, would invade and destroy the produce of the land, leaving Israel impoverished. This reflects the Hebrew term "ra‘" (רַע), meaning evil or wickedness, indicating Israel's disobedience to God (Judges 6:1-6). 2. Israel Cries Out to the LORD In their distress, the Israelites cried out to the LORD for help. This act of crying out, "za‘aq" (זָעַק), signifies a desperate plea for divine intervention, acknowledging their need for God's deliverance (Judges 6:7). 3. The LORD Sends a Prophet God responds by sending a prophet to remind the Israelites of their deliverance from Egypt and their failure to obey His commands. The prophet's message underscores the covenant relationship and the consequences of Israel's disobedience (Judges 6:8-10). 4. The Angel of the LORD Appears to Gideon The Angel of the LORD appears to Gideon while he is threshing wheat in a winepress to hide it from the Midianites. The Angel addresses Gideon as a "mighty warrior," indicating God's view of Gideon's potential despite his current fear and circumstances (Judges 6:11-12). 5. Gideon's Doubt and Request for a Sign Gideon questions the Angel about the LORD's presence and wonders why Israel is suffering if God is with them. He asks for a sign to confirm that it is indeed the LORD speaking to him. This reflects Gideon's initial doubt and need for assurance (Judges 6:13-17). 6. Gideon's Offering and the Consuming Fire Gideon prepares an offering of a young goat and unleavened bread, which the Angel of the LORD touches with the tip of His staff, causing fire to consume the offering. This miraculous sign confirms God's presence and call to Gideon (Judges 6:18-21). 7. Gideon's Altar to the LORD After realizing he has seen the Angel of the LORD, Gideon builds an altar to the LORD and names it "The LORD Is Peace" (Yahweh Shalom). This act signifies Gideon's newfound peace and commitment to God (Judges 6:22-24). 8. Gideon Destroys the Altar of Baal God instructs Gideon to tear down his father's altar to Baal and cut down the Asherah pole beside it. Gideon obeys, doing so at night out of fear of his family and the townspeople. This act of obedience marks the beginning of Israel's return to true worship (Judges 6:25-27). 9. The Reaction of the Townspeople The townspeople discover the destroyed altar and demand Gideon's death. However, Gideon's father, Joash, defends him, suggesting that if Baal is a god, he can defend himself. This incident highlights the challenge of confronting idolatry within the community (Judges 6:28-32). 10. The Spirit of the LORD Comes Upon Gideon The Spirit of the LORD clothes Gideon, empowering him to lead Israel against the Midianites. He blows a trumpet, summoning the Abiezrites and other tribes to join him. This divine empowerment is crucial for Gideon's leadership (Judges 6:33-35). 11. Gideon's Request for Further Signs Gideon seeks further confirmation of God's promise by asking for signs involving a fleece of wool. First, he asks for dew on the fleece only, and then for the fleece to be dry while the ground is wet. God graciously grants both signs, reinforcing Gideon's faith (Judges 6:36-40). Connections to Additional Scriptures Exodus 3:11-12 Moses' call and his feelings of inadequacy, similar to Gideon's. 1 Samuel 16:7 God's choice of David, emphasizing that God looks at the heart, not outward appearances. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 Paul's teaching on God's strength being made perfect in weakness. Prayer Points Pray for the courage to trust in God's presence and promises, even when circumstances seem overwhelming. Ask for a heart of obedience, willing to take small steps of faith in response to God's call. Seek God's assurance and guidance in areas of doubt or uncertainty in your life. Pray for boldness to act in faith, knowing that God equips and empowers those He calls. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the Israelites' suffering in the hands of the Midianites reflect the consequences of their disobedience? 2. Why do you think God chose Gideon, a seemingly ordinary man, to lead the Israelites? 3. How does Gideon's doubt reflect his human nature? How does God respond to this doubt? 4. How might Gideon's act of destroying the altar of Baal reflect his newfound faith and courage? 5. What does the episode of the fleece reveal about Gideon's relationship with God? 6. How can Gideon's story inspire us to trust in God's plan, even when it seems improbable? 7. How does the chapter highlight the importance of repentance in restoring our relationship with God? 8. Why do you think God patiently accommodated Gideon's request for signs? 9. How can we apply the lessons from Gideon's call to our modern day lives? 10. How can Gideon's transformation inspire us in overcoming our own doubts and fears? 11. In what ways can we see ourselves in the figure of Gideon when dealing with the challenges in our lives? 12. Can you think of a time when you felt unqualified for a task God was calling you to do? How did you respond? 13. What steps can we take to stand up against idolatry in today's world, just like Gideon stood against Baal worship? 14. How can we discern when God is calling us to do something outside of our comfort zone? 15. What is your 'fleece' moment when you sought a sign from God? How did God respond? 16. How does the story of Gideon's call challenge our understanding of who is capable of serving God's purpose? 17. In what ways does Judges 6 show that faith in God can lead to the impossible being achieved? 18. How can Gideon's initial hesitation and ultimate obedience inspire us to deal with doubt in our spiritual journey? 19. What does Gideon's story teach us about the power of God working through ordinary people? 20. What steps can we take to ensure we remain faithful to God's word, learning from the Israelites' cycle of disobedience and oppression? Topics 1. Israel's Oppression by Midian (Judges 6:1-6) The Israelites did evil in the sight of the LORD, leading to their oppression by the Midianites for seven years. The Midianites, along with the Amalekites and other eastern peoples, devastated Israel's land and resources. The Hebrew word for "oppression" (עָשַׁק, `ashaq) conveys a sense of severe pressure and exploitation. 2. Israel Cries Out to the LORD (Judges 6:7-10) In their distress, the Israelites cried out to the LORD for help. God sent a prophet to remind them of their deliverance from Egypt and their disobedience to His commands. The Hebrew root for "cried out" (זָעַק, za'aq) indicates a desperate plea for divine intervention. 3. The Call of Gideon (Judges 6:11-24) The Angel of the LORD appeared to Gideon, calling him a "mighty warrior" and commissioning him to save Israel from Midian. Gideon expressed doubt and requested a sign, which the Angel provided by consuming Gideon's offering with fire. The term "mighty warrior" (גִּבּוֹר חַיִל, gibbor chayil) emphasizes strength and valor. 4. Gideon Destroys the Altar of Baal (Judges 6:25-32) God instructed Gideon to tear down his father's altar to Baal and build an altar to the LORD. Gideon obeyed, doing so at night out of fear. The townspeople demanded his death, but his father Joash defended him, leading to Gideon being called "Jerubbaal," meaning "Let Baal contend." 5. The Sign of the Fleece (Judges 6:33-40) Seeking further confirmation of God's promise, Gideon asked for signs involving a fleece of wool. First, he requested dew on the fleece only, and then dew on the ground only. God granted both signs, affirming His commitment to deliver Israel through Gideon. The Hebrew word for "sign" (אוֹת, 'oth) signifies a miraculous indication or proof. Themes 1. Israel's Disobedience and Oppression Judges 6:1 states, "Again the Israelites did evil in the sight of the LORD; so He delivered them into the hand of Midian for seven years." This theme highlights the cycle of disobedience and the resulting oppression. The Hebrew word for "evil" (רַע, ra) indicates moral and spiritual failure, leading to divine judgment. 2. Cry for Deliverance In Judges 6:6, it is written, "Israel was greatly impoverished by Midian, and the Israelites cried out to the LORD." This theme emphasizes the pattern of Israel turning back to God in times of distress, seeking His intervention and mercy. 3. Divine Response and Prophetic Rebuke Judges 6:8-10 describes how God sends a prophet to remind Israel of their covenant obligations and their failure to obey. The prophet's message underscores the importance of faithfulness to God and the consequences of idolatry. 4. Calling of Gideon Judges 6:12-14 records the angel of the LORD appearing to Gideon, saying, "The LORD is with you, O mighty warrior." This theme focuses on God's choice of an unlikely leader, emphasizing divine empowerment and calling. The Hebrew term for "mighty warrior" (גִּבּוֹר חַיִל, gibbor chayil) suggests strength and valor bestowed by God. 5. Gideon's Doubts and God's Assurance In Judges 6:17, Gideon requests a sign, saying, "If I have found favor in Your sight, give me a sign that it is You speaking with me." This theme explores human doubt and the need for reassurance, highlighting God's patience and willingness to confirm His word. 6. Destruction of Idolatry Judges 6:25-27 describes God's command to Gideon to tear down his father's altar to Baal. This theme underscores the necessity of removing idolatry and false worship to restore true devotion to God. 7. Testing God's Will In Judges 6:36-40, Gideon tests God's will with the fleece, seeking confirmation of God's promise. This theme illustrates the human desire for certainty and the graciousness of God in providing guidance. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions