What lessons can we learn from Abimelech's actions in Judges 9:48? A snapshot of the verse “Abimelech went up Mount Zalmon, he and all the people with him; and he took his axe in his hand and cut down a tree branch, lifted it, and laid it on his shoulder. Then he said to the people with him, ‘Hurry and do what you have seen me do!’ ” (Judges 9:48) What stands out in Abimelech’s actions • Visible, forceful leadership: he “took … lifted … laid … said.” • A call to imitate: “do what you have seen me do.” • Swift, unquestioning compliance from his men. • The branch—an ordinary resource—turned into a deadly weapon. • Immediate strategy, no time for moral reflection. Lessons for today • Example is contagious—whether righteous or wicked. – 1 Corinthians 15:33: “Bad company corrupts good character.” • Leadership carries grave responsibility; directing others into sin multiplies guilt (Luke 17:1-2). • Zeal without righteousness is destructive (Romans 10:2-3). • Ordinary gifts of creation can be twisted for evil; stewardship demands discernment (Genesis 1:28 vs. Judges 9:48). • Rapid action is no substitute for prayerful obedience (Psalm 27:14). • Following blindly never excuses the follower (Exodus 23:2). • All ambition outside God’s will ends in ruin; Abimelech later dies under God’s judgment (Judges 9:53-57). Other Scriptures reinforcing the warning • Proverbs 1:10-16—“My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent… their feet run to evil.” • James 3:16—“Where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice.” • Galatians 6:7—“Do not be deceived: God is not mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap.” Invitation to personal application • Examine whose example you are following—and who is following yours. • Weigh every plan against God’s Word before urging others to join in. • Use resources and influence for building up, never tearing down (Ephesians 4:29). |
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