Lessons on obedience from Ehud's lead?
What can we learn about obedience from Ehud's command, "Follow me"?

Setting the Scene

Judges 3 tells how Israel, oppressed by Moab for eighteen years, cried out to the LORD. He raised up Ehud, who carried out a daring mission, then sounded the trumpet of deliverance. Verse 28 captures the pivotal moment:

“‘Follow me,’ he commanded, ‘for the LORD has delivered your enemies the Moabites into your hands.’ ” (Judges 3:28)


Ehud’s Call: Immediate, Clear, Uncompromising

• Ehud did not wait for ideal conditions; obedience could not be delayed.

• His words were concise—just two in Hebrew—yet loaded with authority because they echoed the Lord’s own command.

• The people responded without hesitation; they “followed him down” and seized the fords (v. 28b).


Lessons on Obedience from “Follow me”

1. God-initiated command: Ehud’s order rested on the prior declaration, “the LORD has delivered.” Obedience begins with recognizing that God has already acted.

2. Action, not analysis: Israel did not form committees or weigh pros and cons. True obedience moves from hearing to doing (James 1:22).

3. Collective faith: Though Ehud received the word, the whole community had to obey for deliverance to manifest.

4. Courage made possible: The command carried promise—victory was guaranteed. Obedience rests on God’s power, not human strength.


Obedience Rooted in Faith

Hebrews 11 celebrates those “who through faith conquered kingdoms” (v. 33). Ehud’s faith was contagious, sparking a national response.

• Faith trusts the unseen yet certain outcome God proclaims. Ehud saw Moab defeated before a single sword was raised.


Corporate Obedience: Moving as One

• The people “seized the fords…and did not allow anyone to cross over.” United obedience closed every escape route for the enemy.

• Unity amplifies obedience; discord dilutes it. Psalm 133 compares such unity to anointing oil—fragrant and overflowing.


Obedience Invites God’s Deliverance

• By obeying, Israel participated in the miracle God had already decreed.

1 Samuel 15:22 reminds us, “Obedience is better than sacrifice.” God desires surrendered wills more than impressive rituals.

• Every step behind Ehud testified that deliverance belongs to the LORD (Jonah 2:9).


Echoes of “Follow Me” in Scripture

• Jesus to the disciples: “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” (John 10:27)

• Jesus to the crowd: “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me.” (Luke 9:23)

• The pattern is consistent: God speaks, His people move, and His purposes unfold.


Practical Takeaways for Today

• Listen attentively—obedience begins with hearing God’s Word.

• Act promptly—delayed obedience is disobedience in slow motion.

• Move together—encourage others to join in following God’s lead.

• Rest in His promise—every command comes with the provision to fulfill it.

How does Judges 3:28 demonstrate God's deliverance through unexpected leaders?
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