JUDGE GIDEON (2)

0. Introduction

a) The Israelites began a series of cycles of sinning, worshiping idols, being punished, crying out for help, being rescued by a judge sent from God, obeying God for a while, then falling back into idolatry. They were conquered by Syria, Moab, Canaan, Midian, Ammon, and Philistia. They even faced the threat of civil war. Just as God sent help to the people when they cried out to him, he will deliver us when we call on him.

b) Judge Gideon
(Text: Judges 7:1-25; Years of judging: 40)

1. What is the text all about?

a) Midianites were camel-riding marauders, composed of 5 families linked to Abraham through Midian, the son of Abraham's second wife, Keturah. They inhabited the desert regions from the Dead Sea to the Red Sea.

b) An enemy soldier dreamed of a loaf of barley bread tumbling into camp. Barley grain was only half the value of wheat, and the bread made from it was considered inferior. In the same way, Israel's tiny band of men was considered inferior to the vast forces of Midian and Amalek. But God would make the underdog Israelites seem invincible.

c) Gideon stood just outside the enemy camp and worshiped. Rituals, motions, and loud praise would have announced his presence to the enemy, so Gideon's worship must have been a silent attitude of joy, thanksgiving, and praise to God. Worship is not limited to a particular form or building. We can worship anywhere by changing our focus from life's struggles to the God who cares. True worship begins with a worshipful attitude.

d) The night was divided equally into 3 watches. The beginning of the middle watch would have been around 10.00 pm. Many in the camp would have still been awake.

e) Gideon's army simply watched as the army of Midian fell into panic, confusion, and disordered retreat. Not one man had to draw a sword to defeat the enemy. Gideon's small army could never have brought about such a victory in their own strength. God wanted to demonstrate to Israel that victory depends not on strength or numbers, but on obedience and commitment to him.

2. Memorable act (s)

a) Judge Gideon destroyed his family idols, used a fleece to determine God's will, raised an army of 10,000, and defeated 135,000 Midianites with 300 soldiers.