The Deliverance by Gideon from the Oppression of the Midianites
By: Rev Lynwood F. MundyJudges 6:1, 11-16
(1) The defection of Israel (6:1a) is the downward cycles of apostasy (again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord; (cf. 3:7, 12; 4:1). Deliverance continued with Gideon, whose judgeship receives the most extensive narration in the Book of the Judges (100 verses comprising three chapters).
(2) The call of Gideon by the Angel of the Lord (6:11-24).
6:11-12a. The story of Gideon is introduced not by an affirmation that "God raised a deliverer named Gideon,'' but rather by a narration of how God raised him. Gideon's call or commission resulted from a confrontation with the Angel of the Lord (who is "the Lord," v.14.
6:12b-13. The Angel's introductory remark affirmed the Lord's presence with Gideon (you is sing.) describes Gideon as a mighty warrior ("mighty man of valor"; KJV; the words gibbor hayil refers to Jephthah, 11:1; and Boaz, Ruth 2:1). Though this description could have been in satire (at this point, Gideon was anything but a mighty warrior!), it probably reflected Gideon's potentiality through divine enablement, as well as expressing his notable rank in the community.
Gideon's initial response ignored the singular pronoun "you" (Jud. 6:12), for he replied if the Lord is with us (pl. pronoun). Gideon questioned the divine promise of his people's present circumstances. He correctly concluded, however, that the Lord had put them into the hand of Midian.
6:14. "The Angel of the Lord" (vv. 11-12) now spoke as the Lord and commissioned Gideon to Go ... and save Israel out of Midian's hand. The words the strength you have perhaps assumed the divine presence previously mentioned v. 12).
6:15. But, Gideon objected, My clan is the weakest, and I am the least. This objection might have stemmed from typical Near-Eastern humility, but perhaps it also reflected the right amount of reality.
6:16. God's reassurance reaffirmed His presence with Gideon (I will be with you) and the ease with which he would accomplish victory over the Midianites (as if the were but one man).
Quotes from: The Bible Knowledge Commentary
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