Gideon

*Gideon’s story is told in Judges 6-8

Who is Gideon?

  • Gideon, also known as Jerubbaal, is a significant figure in the book of Judges, chapters 6 to 8. He was a regular Joe from the tribe of Manasseh who became a Judge of Israel, leading his people to victory over their oppressive Midianite enemies. Gideon’s story is one of transformation – from a fearful and doubtful farmer to a fearless and confident leader.

Strengths and Accomplishments

  • Obedient to God’s Call: Despite his initial doubts, Gideon obeyed God’s call to save the Israelites from the Midianites (Judges 6:25-27).
  • Demonstrated Exceptional Courage: Gideon showcased immense bravery by leading a drastically reduced army of just 300 men to conquer a vast Midianite force (Judges 7:7).
  • Instrument of God’s Miraculous Victory: He’s known for his victorious ‘Battle of the Torches’ where God used him and his tiny army to defeat the mighty Midianite soldiers (Judges 7:19-23).

Weaknesses and Mistakes

  • Struggled with Doubt: Gideon frequently questioned God’s promises and even asked for multiple signs to confirm God’s will (Judges 6:17, 36-40).
  • Fell into Idolatry: Despite his victorious leadership, Gideon later made an ephod, a priestly garment, which Israel used for idolatrous worship, leading them away from God (Judges 8:27).

Lessons from His Life

  • God Uses Ordinary People: Gideon’s story reinforces the notion that God can use anyone, irrespective of their status, to fulfill His purposes.
  • Trust in God’s Promises: Gideon’s need for reassurance teaches us to trust God’s promises without incessant demand for signs.
  • Watch Out for Spiritual Pitfalls: Gideon’s later life warns us about the dangers of spiritual complacency and the risk of falling into idolatry.

Key Verses (NIV Version)

  • Judges 6:12 – “When the angel of the LORD appeared to Gideon, he said, ‘The LORD is with you, mighty warrior.'”
  • Judges 7:15 – “When Gideon heard the dream and its interpretation, he bowed down and worshiped. He returned to the camp of Israel and called out, ‘Get up! The LORD has given the Midianite camp into your hands.'”
  • Judges 8:23 – “But Gideon told them, ‘I will not rule over you, nor will my son rule over you. The LORD will rule over you.'”