Introduction

Gideon's call is a pivotal moment in the Book of Judges, where God raises up Gideon to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Midianites. This narrative is found in Judges 6:11-24 and is a profound example of divine selection and empowerment despite human weakness and doubt.

Historical Context

The period of the Judges was marked by a cyclical pattern of Israel's disobedience, oppression by foreign powers, cries for deliverance, and God raising up judges to rescue His people. During Gideon's time, the Israelites were oppressed by the Midianites, who, along with the Amalekites and other eastern peoples, would invade and ravage the land, leaving Israel impoverished and desperate (Judges 6:1-6).

The Angel of the LORD Appears

Gideon's call begins with the appearance of the Angel of the LORD, who finds Gideon threshing wheat in a winepress to hide it from the Midianites. This setting underscores the fear and oppression under which the Israelites lived. The Angel greets Gideon with the words, "The LORD is with you, mighty warrior" (Judges 6:12), a statement that seems ironic given Gideon's current circumstances and self-perception.

Gideon's Doubts and Questions

Gideon responds with skepticism, questioning the presence of the LORD and recalling the past miracles of deliverance that seem absent in his time: "If the LORD is with us, why has all this happened to us?" (Judges 6:13). This reflects a common human tendency to doubt God's presence in times of distress.

Divine Commission

Despite Gideon's doubts, the LORD commissions him to save Israel from the Midianites, assuring him of divine presence and victory: "Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?" (Judges 6:14). Gideon, however, protests his inadequacy, citing his family's low status and his own insignificance (Judges 6:15).

Assurance of God's Presence

The LORD reassures Gideon, promising, "I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites, leaving none alive" (Judges 6:16). This promise highlights the biblical theme that God's presence and power are sufficient to overcome human weakness.

Request for a Sign

Gideon, seeking confirmation of his divine encounter, requests a sign. He prepares an offering of a young goat and unleavened bread, which the Angel of the LORD miraculously consumes with fire from a rock (Judges 6:17-21). This sign convinces Gideon of the divine nature of his visitor, and he builds an altar to the LORD, naming it "The LORD Is Peace" (Judges 6:24).

Theological Significance

Gideon's call illustrates several key theological themes. First, it emphasizes God's initiative in choosing and empowering individuals for His purposes, regardless of their perceived inadequacies. Second, it underscores the importance of faith and obedience in responding to God's call, even amidst doubt and fear. Finally, it highlights the assurance of God's presence as the ultimate source of strength and victory.

Conclusion

Gideon's call is a testament to God's faithfulness and power to deliver His people through unlikely and humble instruments. It serves as an enduring reminder of the transformative potential of divine calling and the necessity of trust in God's promises.