Judges 20:11

So all the men of Israel gathered as one man, united against the city.

Study Bible

So all the men of Israel gathered as one man
This phrase highlights the unity among the tribes of Israel, a rare occurrence in the period of the Judges, which was marked by tribal disunity and frequent internal conflict. The phrase "as one man" suggests a collective resolve and purpose, reminiscent of the unity seen in Exodus 19:8 when the Israelites agreed to the covenant at Sinai. This unity is significant given the context of the moral and social chaos described in the book of Judges, particularly in the chapters leading up to this event. The gathering of the tribes can be seen as a response to the grievous sin committed in Gibeah, which demanded a unified action to uphold justice and righteousness according to the law of Moses.

united against the city
The city in question is Gibeah, located in the territory of Benjamin. This phrase indicates the focus of the Israelite assembly's anger and their intent to address the atrocity committed there. Gibeah's crime, the brutal assault and murder of a Levite's concubine, is detailed in Judges 19 and is reminiscent of the sin of Sodom in Genesis 19, highlighting the moral decay within Israel. The unity against Gibeah underscores the seriousness of the offense and the necessity of purging such evil from among the people, as prescribed in Deuteronomy 13:12-18. This confrontation also foreshadows the internal strife and civil war that would ensue, illustrating the consequences of Israel's failure to fully adhere to God's commandments and the need for a righteous king, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who brings true justice and peace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Men of Israel
Refers to the collective tribes of Israel, excluding the tribe of Benjamin, who gathered together in unity to address the grievous sin committed in Gibeah.

2. Gibeah
A city in the territory of Benjamin where a horrific crime was committed against a Levite's concubine, leading to the conflict described in Judges 20.

3. Tribe of Benjamin
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, which defended the inhabitants of Gibeah, leading to a civil war with the other tribes.

4. Levite
A member of the tribe of Levi, whose concubine was abused and killed in Gibeah, sparking the outrage and subsequent gathering of the tribes.

5. Civil War
The event that ensued as a result of the tribes of Israel uniting against the tribe of Benjamin due to the atrocity committed in Gibeah.

Teaching Points

Unity in Righteous Indignation
The Israelites' unity against the sin in Gibeah demonstrates the importance of collective action in addressing moral and spiritual corruption. Believers today are called to stand together against injustice and sin.

The Consequences of Sin
The events in Judges 20 remind us of the destructive nature of sin and the far-reaching consequences it can have on a community. It serves as a warning to guard against allowing sin to take root.

The Role of Justice
The passage underscores the necessity of justice in maintaining the holiness and integrity of God's people. Christians are encouraged to seek justice and righteousness in their communities.

The Danger of Tribalism
The conflict between the tribes of Israel and Benjamin highlights the dangers of tribalism and division within the body of Christ. Unity should be sought in Christ above all else.

Repentance and Restoration
While the passage focuses on judgment, it also points to the need for repentance and the possibility of restoration, which is a central theme throughout Scripture.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the unity of the Israelites in Judges 20:11 about how we should respond to sin within our own communities?

2. How does the account of the Levite and his concubine in Gibeah challenge us to confront injustice and immorality today?

3. In what ways does the civil war between the tribes of Israel and Benjamin illustrate the dangers of division within the church?

4. How can we apply the principles of justice and righteousness from Judges 20 to our personal lives and communities?

5. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or participated in a collective effort to address wrongdoing. What were the outcomes, and how did it align with biblical principles of unity and justice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 13
This passage discusses the importance of purging evil from among the people, which connects to the Israelites' motivation to unite against the sin in Gibeah.

1 Corinthians 5
Paul addresses the need for the church to deal with sin within its community, paralleling the Israelites' response to sin in their midst.

Psalm 133:1
Highlights the beauty and strength of unity among brethren, which is exemplified by the Israelites coming together as one man.