What does Ehud's story teach about God's sovereignty over leaders and nations? Setting the Scene: Israel Under Moabite Control • Israel had “done evil in the sight of the LORD” (Judges 3:12), so God allowed Eglon of Moab to rule over them for eighteen years. • Oppression came because of sin, yet it was also under God’s direct oversight; He “strengthened Eglon” (v. 12) to discipline His people. • Judges 3:17: “And he presented the tribute to Eglon king of Moab, who was an obese man.” Even the detail of Eglon’s girth points to God’s complete knowledge of earthly rulers. God Raises an Unlikely Deliverer • Ehud is a left‐handed Benjamite (Judges 3:15). In a tribe famed for right‐handed warriors, his “weakness” becomes God’s strategic advantage. • The hidden sword on Ehud’s right thigh escapes detection—proof that God can use what looks insignificant to overturn oppressive power. • 1 Corinthians 1:27: “God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.” Ehud embodies this principle. The Hidden Hand of Providence • God arranged every detail: ‑ The timing of the tribute journey. ‑ The private audience with Eglon. ‑ The location of the cool roof chamber. ‑ The panic and delay of Eglon’s servants (Judges 3:24–25). • Proverbs 21:1: “The king’s heart is a watercourse in the hand of the LORD; He directs it wherever He pleases.” Eglon’s curiosity—“I have a secret message for you”—was ultimately God’s nudge. God’s Sovereignty Over Leaders and Nations • He installs rulers: Daniel 2:21—“He removes kings and establishes them.” • He can topple any throne through unexpected means (Isaiah 40:23). • He disciplines nations, including His own people, to bring them back to covenant faithfulness. • He preserves a remnant and keeps His promises, safeguarding the messianic line that runs through Israel’s turbulent history. Supporting Scriptures • Psalm 115:3—“Our God is in the heavens; He does whatever pleases Him.” • Romans 13:1—“There is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.” • Acts 17:26—He “determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their lands.” Take-Home Truths • No ruler rises or falls apart from God’s decree; He is never outmaneuvered. • God can use the least likely person to accomplish His purposes. • National events—good or bad—should drive believers to trust His plan, repent of sin, and await His deliverance. • The ultimate sovereign Deliverer foreshadowed here is Christ, who conquers sin and sets His people free forever. |
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