Judges 8:15

And Gideon went to the men of Succoth and said, "Here are Zebah and Zalmunna, about whom you taunted me, saying, 'Are the hands of Zebah and Zalmunna already in your possession, that we should give bread to your weary men?'"

Study Bible

And Gideon went to the men of Succoth
Gideon, a judge of Israel, is returning to Succoth, a city east of the Jordan River. Succoth was a significant location during the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land (Genesis 33:17). The men of Succoth had previously refused to assist Gideon and his men, showing a lack of faith and support for God's chosen leader. This reflects a broader theme of Israel's struggle with faithfulness and unity.

and said, “Here are Zebah and Zalmunna,
Zebah and Zalmunna were kings of Midian, enemies of Israel. Their capture by Gideon fulfills God's promise of deliverance from oppression (Judges 6:14-16). This victory demonstrates God's power and faithfulness, as well as Gideon's role as a deliverer, a type of Christ who defeats the enemies of God's people.

about whom you taunted me,
The men of Succoth had mocked Gideon, doubting his ability to defeat the Midianite kings. This taunting represents a lack of faith and trust in God's plan and His appointed leader. It highlights the recurring theme of Israel's spiritual weakness and the need for strong, God-fearing leadership.

saying, ‘Are the hands of Zebah and Zalmunna already in your possession,
This phrase reflects skepticism and disbelief in Gideon's mission. The "hands" symbolize power and control, and the men of Succoth doubted Gideon's ability to achieve victory. This mirrors the broader biblical narrative of doubting God's promises, as seen in the Israelites' history of unbelief (Numbers 14:11).

that we should give bread to your weary men?’”
The refusal to provide bread to Gideon's men shows a lack of hospitality and support, contrary to the cultural expectations of the time. In the ancient Near East, providing for travelers and warriors was a duty, especially for fellow Israelites. This refusal underscores the spiritual and moral decline in Israel, as well as the need for repentance and renewal.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gideon
A judge of Israel, chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from the oppression of the Midianites. Known for his faith and leadership, yet also for his human flaws.

2. Men of Succoth
Inhabitants of a city in the territory of Gad, who refused to assist Gideon and his men by providing them with bread during their pursuit of the Midianite kings.

3. Zebah and Zalmunna
Kings of Midian who were pursued and captured by Gideon. Their defeat was crucial in liberating Israel from Midianite oppression.

4. Succoth
A city east of the Jordan River, significant in this account for its refusal to support Gideon, which led to Gideon's rebuke and subsequent punishment of its leaders.

5. Midianites
A nomadic people who oppressed Israel for seven years, leading to the rise of Gideon as a judge and deliverer.

Teaching Points

Faith and Obedience
Gideon's journey underscores the importance of trusting in God's guidance and acting in obedience, even when facing overwhelming odds.

Consequences of Inaction
The men of Succoth serve as a cautionary tale about the consequences of failing to support God's work and His chosen leaders.

Leadership and Accountability
Gideon's response to the men of Succoth illustrates the need for leaders to hold others accountable while also reflecting on their own actions and motivations.

God's Deliverance
The capture of Zebah and Zalmunna is a testament to God's power to deliver His people through unlikely means and individuals.

Community Support
The account highlights the importance of community support and unity in achieving God's purposes, reminding believers to support one another in their spiritual journeys.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Gideon's interaction with the men of Succoth challenge us to support God's work and His leaders today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are not withholding good from those in need, as warned against in Proverbs 3:27?

3. How does Gideon's faith journey inspire us to trust in God's promises, even when the path seems uncertain?

4. What lessons can we learn from the consequences faced by the men of Succoth regarding the importance of community support?

5. How can we apply the principles of leadership and accountability demonstrated by Gideon in our own lives and communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 6-7
Provides the background of Gideon's calling and the miraculous victory over the Midianites, setting the stage for the events in Judges 8.

Proverbs 3:27
Relates to the refusal of the men of Succoth to help Gideon, emphasizing the importance of not withholding good from those to whom it is due.

Hebrews 11:32-34
Mentions Gideon among the heroes of faith, highlighting his role in overcoming kingdoms and obtaining promises through faith.