Judges 19:13

He continued, "Come, let us try to reach one of these towns to spend the night in Gibeah or Ramah."

Study Bible

Come, let us try to reach one of these places and spend the night in Gibeah or Ramah
Come
The invitation "Come" is a call to action, a directive that suggests urgency and purpose. In the Hebrew context, the word often implies movement towards a goal or destination. It is a common biblical invitation, reminiscent of God's call to His people to follow His ways. Here, it reflects the Levite's desire to find a safe haven for the night, emphasizing the need for community and fellowship in times of uncertainty.

let us try to reach
This phrase indicates a sense of determination and effort. The Hebrew root suggests an attempt or endeavor, highlighting the uncertainty and potential difficulty of the journey. It reflects the human condition of striving towards a goal, often amidst challenges. Spiritually, it can be seen as a metaphor for the Christian journey towards righteousness and the Kingdom of God, requiring perseverance and faith.

one of these places
The reference to "one of these places" suggests options and choices. In the biblical narrative, choices often reflect moral and spiritual decisions. The Levite's decision-making process here can be seen as a reflection of the broader human experience of discerning God's will and choosing the right path. It underscores the importance of seeking divine guidance in our decisions.

and spend the night
The phrase "and spend the night" indicates a temporary stay, a pause in the journey. In biblical times, hospitality was a sacred duty, and finding a place to rest was crucial for travelers. This reflects the transient nature of life and the need for rest and refuge, both physically and spiritually. It serves as a reminder of God's provision and the rest He offers to His people.

in Gibeah or Ramah
Gibeah and Ramah were towns in the territory of Benjamin. Gibeah, in particular, is significant in the biblical narrative for the events that follow in Judges 19, which highlight the moral decay and lawlessness of the time. The mention of these towns sets the stage for the unfolding account and serves as a geographical and historical marker. It reminds readers of the importance of place in God's redemptive history and the consequences of turning away from His commandments.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Levite
A central figure in this account, the Levite is traveling with his concubine and servant. His decisions and actions are pivotal to the unfolding events.

2. The Concubine
The Levite's concubine, whose tragic fate becomes a catalyst for the subsequent events in Israel.

3. The Servant
Accompanies the Levite and the concubine on their journey, offering practical suggestions during their travel.

4. Gibeah
A town in the territory of Benjamin, where the Levite and his party decide to spend the night. It becomes the setting for the horrific events that follow.

5. Ramah
Another town mentioned as a potential place to stay, located near Gibeah, but ultimately not chosen by the travelers.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Discernment
The Levite's decision to stay in Gibeah rather than Ramah underscores the need for discernment in our choices. We must seek God's guidance in our daily decisions to avoid potential pitfalls.

Hospitality and Community
The lack of hospitality in Gibeah serves as a reminder of the biblical call to love and care for strangers. As Christians, we are called to be welcoming and compassionate.

Consequences of Moral Decay
The events in Gibeah illustrate the dangers of a society that turns away from God's laws. We must strive to uphold righteousness and justice in our communities.

The Ripple Effect of Sin
The account shows how individual sin can lead to widespread consequences. It is crucial to address sin at its root to prevent further harm.

Bible Study Questions

1. What factors might have influenced the Levite's decision to stay in Gibeah instead of Ramah, and how can we apply discernment in our own decision-making processes?

2. How does the lack of hospitality in Gibeah contrast with biblical teachings on hospitality, and what practical steps can we take to be more welcoming in our communities?

3. In what ways does the moral decay in Gibeah reflect challenges in our society today, and how can Christians work to uphold God's standards?

4. How do the events in Judges 19 demonstrate the ripple effect of sin, and what can we learn about addressing sin in our own lives and communities?

5. How can the account of the Levite and his concubine inform our understanding of justice and the importance of seeking God's guidance in difficult situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
The events in Gibeah parallel the account of Sodom and Gomorrah, highlighting themes of hospitality and moral decay.

Judges 20
The aftermath of the events in Gibeah leads to a civil war in Israel, showing the consequences of sin and injustice.

Luke 10:30-37
The Parable of the Good Samaritan contrasts the lack of hospitality and compassion in Gibeah with the Samaritan's actions.