What lessons can we learn from Abimelech's actions in Judges 9:5? Setting the Scene “On one stone he slaughtered his brothers, the seventy sons of Jerubbaal—but Jotham, the youngest son of Jerubbaal, survived, because he hid himself” (Judges 9:5). One brutal sentence captures Abimelech’s bid for power: cold-blooded murder of his own family to eliminate rivals. The Dark Path of Self-Exaltation • Abimelech sought a throne God never promised him. • His strategy—violence and intimidation—directly opposed God’s pattern of raising leaders (cf. 1 Samuel 16:1, 13). • Scripture warns, “Everyone proud in heart is detestable to the LORD; be assured he will not go unpunished” (Proverbs 16:5). Disregard for Covenant and Family • Gideon (Jerubbaal) had been used mightily by God, yet his son showed no loyalty to the covenant identity of Israel. • Family bonds, sacred under the Law (Exodus 20:12), meant nothing to Abimelech; he imitated Cain, who also shed a brother’s blood out of selfish ambition (Genesis 4:8). • The massacre occurred “on one stone,” suggesting a deliberate, ceremonial execution—sin committed with calculated resolve, not in the heat of passion. The High Cost of Unchecked Ambition • Ambition unguided by submission to God produces corruption: “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death” (Proverbs 14:12). • Abimelech’s reign lasted only three years before internal revolt and divine judgment (Judges 9:22-25). • His violent rule ended violently: “A woman dropped an upper millstone on Abimelech’s head and crushed his skull” (Judges 9:53). What he sowed, he reaped (Galatians 6:7-8). God’s Justice Always Prevails • Though evil appears unchecked for a season, the Lord vindicates righteousness. Psalm 37:9 assures, “Evildoers will be cut off, but those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land.” • Jotham, the sole surviving brother, became God’s mouthpiece, pronouncing the parable of the bramble and foretelling judgment (Judges 9:7-20). • The narrative underscores that God remains sovereign even when leaders act treacherously. Guarding Our Hearts Today • Examine motives: pursue influence only under God’s direction, never by worldly scheming. • Honor family and fellow believers, recognizing them as gifts rather than obstacles. • Reject the mindset that ends justify means; holiness matters as much as results. • Trust divine timing—elevation that comes from the Lord carries His protection (Psalm 75:6-7). • Remember Abimelech’s legacy: power gained through sin crumbles, but obedience leaves a heritage of blessing (Deuteronomy 30:19-20). |
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