Topical Bible: Gideon: He Destroys the Altar of Baal, and Builds One to the Lord

◄ Gideon: He Destroys the Altar of Baal, and Builds One to the Lord ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Gideon, also known as Jerubbaal, is a prominent figure in the Book of Judges, chapters 6 to 8, where he is called by God to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Midianites. His account is a testament to faith, obedience, and the power of God working through unlikely individuals. One of the pivotal moments in Gideon's life is his destruction of the altar of Baal and the construction of an altar to the Lord, which marks the beginning of his mission to lead Israel back to the worship of Yahweh.

Background

The Israelites had fallen into idolatry, worshiping the Canaanite god Baal, which led to their subjugation by the Midianites. In response to their cries for help, God chose Gideon, a man from the tribe of Manasseh, to deliver His people. Despite his initial hesitance and feelings of inadequacy, Gideon is reassured by God’s promise of presence and victory.

The Call and Commission

Gideon's call is marked by a divine encounter. The Angel of the Lord appears to him while he is threshing wheat in a winepress, hiding from the Midianites. The Angel addresses him as a "mighty warrior" and assures him, "The LORD is with you, mighty warrior" (Judges 6:12). Despite his doubts and questions about God's presence and power, Gideon is given a sign through the miraculous consumption of his offering by fire (Judges 6:21).

Destruction of the Altar of Baal

Following his commissioning, Gideon is instructed by God to tear down his father's altar to Baal and cut down the Asherah pole beside it. God commands him, "Tear down your father’s altar to Baal and cut down the Asherah pole beside it. Then build a proper altar to the LORD your God on the top of this height" (Judges 6:25-26). Gideon obeys, but due to fear of his family and the townspeople, he carries out the task at night with the help of ten servants.

The next morning, the townspeople discover the destruction and demand Gideon's life. However, Joash, Gideon's father, defends him, arguing that if Baal is truly a god, he can defend himself. This incident earns Gideon the name Jerubbaal, meaning "Let Baal contend against him" (Judges 6:31-32).

Significance

Gideon's act of destroying the altar of Baal is significant for several reasons. It represents a public renunciation of idolatry and a return to the worship of the one true God. It also serves as a test of Gideon's faith and courage, setting the stage for his leadership in delivering Israel from Midianite oppression. This act of obedience is a precursor to the greater victories God would achieve through Gideon, demonstrating that true worship and reliance on God are foundational to Israel's deliverance and prosperity.

The Altar to the Lord

In place of the altar to Baal, Gideon builds an altar to the Lord, signifying a renewed covenant and dedication to God. This altar, named "The LORD Is Peace" (Judges 6:24), becomes a symbol of God's presence and assurance of peace amidst the turmoil and oppression faced by Israel. It marks the beginning of a spiritual reformation under Gideon's leadership, as he rallies the Israelites to stand against their oppressors with faith in God's promises.

Gideon's account, particularly his destruction of the altar of Baal, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God and the rejection of idolatry. It underscores the theme of divine empowerment and the transformative impact of obedience to God's commands.

Nave's Topical Index

Judges 6:25-27
And it came to pass the same night, that the LORD said to him, Take your father's young bullock, even the second bullock of seven years old, and throw down the altar of Baal that your father has, and cut down the grove that is by it:
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