Biblical Reference: Judges 6:11-24

Context and Background:
The narrative of the Angel of the LORD appearing to Gideon is set during a tumultuous period in Israel's history, known as the time of the Judges. This era was marked by a cyclical pattern of Israel's disobedience, oppression by foreign powers, cries for deliverance, and subsequent rescue by judges raised up by God. The specific context of Gideon's calling occurs when the Israelites are oppressed by the Midianites, who, along with the Amalekites and other eastern peoples, have devastated the land, leaving Israel impoverished and in fear.

The Appearance:
The Angel of the LORD appears to Gideon while he is threshing wheat in a winepress to hide it from the Midianites. This setting underscores the dire situation and the fear under which the Israelites lived. The Angel's appearance is both sudden and significant, as it marks the beginning of Gideon's transformation from a cautious individual to a mighty leader.

Scriptural Account:
In Judges 6:12, the Angel of the LORD greets Gideon with the words, "The LORD is with you, mighty warrior." This greeting is profound, as it identifies Gideon not by his current state but by his potential and the role he is to play in God's plan for Israel. Gideon, however, questions the presence of the LORD, citing the current suffering of his people and the apparent absence of divine intervention (Judges 6:13).

The Angel of the LORD responds by commissioning Gideon to save Israel from the hand of Midian, assuring him of divine presence and strength: "Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?" (Judges 6:14). Despite Gideon's protests about his inadequacy and the insignificance of his family, the Angel reassures him, "I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites, leaving none alive" (Judges 6:16).

The Sign and Offering:
Seeking confirmation of this divine encounter, Gideon requests a sign. He prepares an offering of a young goat and unleavened bread, which he presents to the Angel under the oak. The Angel instructs Gideon to place the offering on a rock and pour out the broth. In a miraculous act, the Angel touches the offering with the tip of his staff, causing fire to spring up from the rock and consume the offering (Judges 6:21). This act confirms the divine nature of the encounter and the authenticity of the Angel's message.

Gideon's Response:
Realizing he has seen the Angel of the LORD face to face, Gideon fears for his life, as it was believed that seeing God would result in death. However, the LORD reassures him, saying, "Peace be with you. Do not be afraid, for you will not die" (Judges 6:23). In response, Gideon builds an altar to the LORD and names it "The LORD Is Peace" (Judges 6:24), signifying his newfound understanding of God's presence and peace amidst turmoil.

Theological Significance:
The appearance of the Angel of the LORD to Gideon is a pivotal moment that highlights several key theological themes. It underscores God's sovereignty and initiative in delivering His people, often choosing unlikely individuals to fulfill His purposes. The encounter also emphasizes the transformative power of God's presence, as Gideon is called and equipped to lead Israel despite his initial doubts and fears. The narrative illustrates the concept of divine commissioning, where God not only calls but also empowers and reassures those He chooses to serve His purposes.