Biblical Context:
The account of Gideon destroying Baal's altar is found in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 6:25-32. This event occurs during a period of Israel's history when the Israelites were oppressed by the Midianites due to their disobedience to God, which included the worship of foreign gods such as Baal. The narrative highlights God's call to Gideon to deliver Israel and the initial steps Gideon takes in obedience to God.

Divine Commission:
Gideon, also known as Jerubbaal, is called by God to be a judge and deliverer for Israel. The angel of the LORD appears to Gideon while he is threshing wheat in a winepress to hide it from the Midianites. The angel addresses him as a "mighty warrior" and assures him of the LORD's presence (Judges 6:12). Despite his initial hesitance and feelings of inadequacy, Gideon is reassured by God's promise of victory over the Midianites.

Destruction of the Altar:
In Judges 6:25-26, God commands Gideon to destroy his father's altar to Baal and the Asherah pole beside it. The LORD instructs Gideon to build a proper altar to Him on top of the stronghold and to sacrifice a bull using the wood of the Asherah pole. This act is significant as it symbolizes the rejection of idolatry and the restoration of true worship to Yahweh.

Gideon's Obedience:
Gideon obeys God's command, albeit under the cover of night due to fear of his family and the townspeople. He takes ten of his servants and carries out the task as instructed (Judges 6:27). This act of obedience marks a pivotal moment in Gideon's journey as a leader chosen by God.

Reaction of the Townspeople:
The following morning, the townspeople discover the destruction of Baal's altar and the Asherah pole. They demand that Joash, Gideon's father, bring Gideon out to be put to death for his actions (Judges 6:28-30). However, Joash defends his son, challenging the people by questioning Baal's ability to defend himself. He argues that if Baal is truly a god, he should be able to contend for himself. As a result, Gideon is given the name Jerubbaal, meaning "Let Baal contend against him" (Judges 6:31-32).

Theological Significance:
The destruction of Baal's altar by Gideon is a profound demonstration of faith and obedience to God. It signifies a turning point for Israel, as it challenges the prevailing idolatry and calls the people back to the worship of the one true God. This act sets the stage for Gideon's subsequent leadership and the deliverance of Israel from Midianite oppression. The narrative underscores the importance of fidelity to God and the rejection of false gods, a recurring theme throughout the Scriptures.