"Who did this?" they said to one another. And after they had investigated thoroughly, they were told, "Gideon son of Joash did it." “Who did this?”This question arises after the townspeople discover that the altar of Baal has been torn down and the Asherah pole cut down. The inquiry reflects the community's shock and confusion, as Baal worship was deeply ingrained in their culture. This moment highlights the tension between the worship of Yahweh and the prevalent Canaanite religious practices. The question also underscores the fear of divine retribution from Baal, a common belief among the Israelites who had adopted Canaanite customs. Jos 22:16-18 This is what the whole congregation of the LORD says:… they said to one another. The phrase indicates a communal response, suggesting that the act of destroying the altar was significant enough to cause a public stir. This reflects the collective nature of ancient Israelite society, where religious and social matters were often discussed and resolved within the community. The communal dialogue also emphasizes the shared responsibility and concern for maintaining religious practices, whether they were aligned with Yahweh or Canaanite deities. Gen 37:19 “Here comes that dreamer!” they said to one another. And after they had investigated thoroughly, The thorough investigation implies a serious and methodical approach to uncovering the truth. This reflects the legal and social processes of the time, where accusations required evidence and witnesses. The investigation also suggests the gravity of the offense in the eyes of the community, as desecrating a religious site was considered a significant transgression. This process mirrors other biblical instances where thorough investigations were conducted, such as in Deuteronomy 13:14 regarding idolatry. Deu 17:4 If it is reported and you hear about it,… they were told, The passive construction indicates that the information was relayed to them, possibly by someone who witnessed the act or had knowledge of it. This suggests the presence of informants or individuals who were aware of Gideon's actions. It also highlights the role of communication and testimony in ancient Israelite society, where word of mouth was a primary means of disseminating information. 1Sa 23:7 When Saul was told that David had gone to Keilah,… “Gideon son of Joash did it.” Gideon's identification as the son of Joash is significant, as it ties him to his family and clan, the Abiezrites. This connection is crucial because it situates Gideon within a specific social and familial context, which would have influenced his actions and the community's response. Gideon's act of tearing down the altar is a pivotal moment in his journey as a judge and deliverer of Israel. It marks the beginning of his mission to lead Israel away from idolatry and back to the worship of Yahweh. This act foreshadows Gideon's role as a type of Christ, a deliverer who challenges the status quo and calls people back to true worship. Jos 7:18-21 And he had the family of Zabdi come forward man by man,… Persons / Places / Events 1. GideonA judge of Israel, chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from the oppression of the Midianites. Known for his initial hesitance and later faithfulness. 2. Joash Gideon's father, who owned the altar to Baal that Gideon destroyed. His reaction to Gideon's actions is significant in the account. 3. The Israelites The people of God, who were oppressed by the Midianites due to their disobedience and idolatry. 4. The Altar of Baal A symbol of Israel's idolatry and unfaithfulness to God. Its destruction by Gideon marks a turning point in Israel's return to God. 5. The Midianites Oppressors of Israel, used by God as a means of discipline for Israel's idolatry and disobedience. Teaching Points Courage in ObedienceGideon's actions remind us that obeying God often requires courage, especially when it goes against cultural norms or family expectations. The Importance of Investigating Truth The Israelites' investigation into the destruction of the altar shows the importance of seeking truth and understanding the reasons behind actions. God's Use of Imperfect People Gideon was initially hesitant and fearful, yet God used him mightily. This encourages us that God can use us despite our weaknesses. Confronting Idolatry Just as Gideon confronted the physical idols of his time, we are called to confront and remove any idols in our lives, whether they be material, relational, or ideological. Faith in Action Gideon's account is a testament to putting faith into action, trusting that God will provide strength and guidance when we step out in faith. Bible Study Questions 1. What does Gideon's initial fear and eventual obedience teach us about dealing with our own fears when God calls us to act?2. How can we identify and confront modern-day idols in our lives, similar to how Gideon destroyed the altar of Baal? 3. In what ways does the account of Gideon encourage us to seek God's truth and direction in our lives, especially when faced with difficult decisions? 4. How does Gideon's account connect with other biblical figures who showed faith in the face of opposition, and what can we learn from their examples? 5. Reflect on a time when you felt inadequate for a task God called you to. How does Gideon's account inspire you to trust in God's strength rather than your own? Connections to Other Scriptures Exodus 20:3-5The commandment against idolatry, which Gideon's actions directly support by destroying the altar of Baal. 1 Kings 18:21-40 Elijah's confrontation with the prophets of Baal, showing a similar zeal for the Lord and rejection of idolatry. Hebrews 11:32-34 Gideon is mentioned in the "Hall of Faith," highlighting his role as a man of faith despite his initial doubts.
People Abiezer, Abiezrites, Amalek, Amalekites, Amorites, Asher, Egyptians, Ephah, Gideon, Israelites, Jerubbaal, Jezreel, Joash, Manasseh, Midianites, Naphtali, Ophrah, ZebulunPlaces Egypt, Gaza, Jezreel Valley, Jordan River, Midian, OphrahTopics Care, Gideon, Inquire, Inquired, Investigated, Joash, Jo'ash, Search, Searched, Searching, SeekDictionary of Bible Themes Judges 6:25-32Library Gideon's Altar'Then Gideon built an altar there unto the Lord, and called it Jehovah- shalom [God is peace].'--JUDGES vi. 24. I need not tell over again, less vividly, the picturesque story in this chapter, of the simple husbandman up in the hills, engaged furtively in threshing out a little wheat in some hollow in the rock where he might hide it from the keen eyes of the oppressors; and of how the angel of the Lord, unrecognised at first, appeared to him; and gradually there dawned upon his mind the suspicion … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Gideon's Fleece Jehovam-Shalem, the Lord Send Peace. Judg 6:24 Whether it is a Sin to Tempt God? Man Now Deprived of Freedom of Will, and Miserably Enslaved. The Unity of the Divine Essence in Three Persons Taught, in Scripture, from the Foundation of the World. Subterraneous Places. Mines. Caves. Jesus Calls Four Fishermen to Follow Him. Of the Sacraments. The Doctrine of God And thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, too little to be among the thousands of Judah Seasonable Counsel: Or, Advice to Sufferers. Judges Links Judges 6:29 NIVJudges 6:29 NLT Judges 6:29 ESV Judges 6:29 NASB Judges 6:29 KJV Judges 6:29 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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