Judges 11:23

Now since the LORD, the God of Israel, has driven out the Amorites from before His people Israel, should you now possess it?

Study Bible

Now since the LORD
This phrase establishes the divine authority and sovereignty of God in the narrative. The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, emphasizing His personal relationship with Israel. This introduction sets the stage for understanding that the events to follow are under God's providential control, reminding us of His faithfulness and the importance of trusting in His plans.

the God of Israel
This title reinforces the identity of Yahweh as the national God of Israel, distinguishing Him from the gods of surrounding nations. It highlights the special covenant relationship between God and Israel, rooted in the promises made to the patriarchs. Historically, this underscores Israel's unique position as God's chosen people, called to be a light to the nations.

has driven out
The verb "driven out" (Hebrew: "yarash") implies a forceful removal or dispossession. This reflects the historical reality of the Israelites' conquest of Canaan, which was seen as an act of divine judgment against the Canaanites. It serves as a reminder of God's power to fulfill His promises and His role as a righteous judge.

the Amorites
The Amorites were one of the prominent Canaanite tribes inhabiting the land before Israel's conquest. Archaeological evidence and ancient texts describe them as a significant and formidable people. Their mention here serves to highlight the miraculous nature of Israel's victories, achieved not by their own strength but by God's intervention.

from before His people Israel
This phrase emphasizes the protective and providential care of God over Israel. The term "His people" underscores the intimate relationship and covenantal bond between God and Israel. Historically, it reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to give the land of Canaan to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

why then
This rhetorical question introduces a challenge to the opposing claims of the Ammonites. It invites reflection on the justice and legitimacy of Israel's possession of the land, encouraging the reader to consider the divine mandate behind Israel's actions.

should you possess it?
The word "possess" (Hebrew: "yarash") is the same as "driven out," creating a parallelism that contrasts God's rightful dispossession of the Amorites with the Ammonites' illegitimate claim. This challenges the reader to consider the basis of rightful ownership and the importance of aligning with God's will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jephthah
A judge of Israel, known for his leadership and vow. He was a Gileadite and a mighty warrior who led Israel against the Ammonites.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who is portrayed as the divine warrior and deliverer of His people, having driven out the Amorites.

3. The Amorites
A group of ancient people who occupied the land before the Israelites. They were defeated by Israel under God's command.

4. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given the land of Canaan as their inheritance.

5. The Ammonites
A neighboring nation to Israel, who were in conflict with Israel over territorial claims.

Teaching Points

Divine Sovereignty and Ownership
God is the ultimate owner of all lands and peoples. His decisions and actions in history demonstrate His sovereignty and authority.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
The conquest of the Amorites is a fulfillment of God's promise to give Israel the land. Believers can trust in God's faithfulness to His promises today.

Righteousness in Conflict
Jephthah's argument is based on historical and divine justice. In conflicts, believers should seek righteousness and truth, relying on God's past actions as a foundation.

God as Deliverer
Just as God delivered Israel from their enemies, He delivers believers from spiritual battles. Trust in God's power and provision.

Historical Context in Faith
Understanding the historical context of God's actions helps believers appreciate His ongoing work in their lives and the world.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jephthah's understanding of history and God's actions influence his leadership and decisions?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty in our own lives, similar to how He drove out the Amorites for Israel?

3. How can the account of the Amorites and Israelites encourage us to trust in God's promises today?

4. What lessons can we learn from Jephthah's approach to conflict resolution that can be applied to our personal or communal disputes?

5. How does understanding the historical context of biblical events enhance our faith and trust in God's plan for us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 2:24-37
This passage recounts the initial conquest of the Amorites under Moses, providing historical context to Jephthah's argument.

Joshua 24:8-12
Joshua's recounting of God's deliverance and victories over the Amorites, reinforcing the divine right of Israel to the land.

Romans 8:31
This New Testament verse echoes the theme of God being for His people, similar to how He fought for Israel against the Amorites.