What is the meaning of Judges 13:17? Then Manoah said to the angel of the LORD Manoah has just heard that the barren wife he loves will bear a son set apart as a Nazirite (Judges 13:3-14). Realizing the gravity of the promise, he speaks directly to “the angel of the LORD,” a figure who earlier accepted worship and foretold births (Genesis 16:7-13; Exodus 3:2-6). That Manoah talks to Him as to God shows he recognizes divine authority. The verse begins with “Then,” tying his request to the firm belief that the messenger’s words carry the same weight as God’s own (Numbers 22:35; Judges 6:22-24). What is your name In Scripture, knowing a name means grasping character and mission (Exodus 3:13-15; Isaiah 9:6). Manoah seeks more than an introduction; he wants to understand the nature of the One who has spoken. God’s messengers sometimes reveal their names (Luke 1:19), yet at other times keep silent to emphasize awe and mystery (Genesis 32:29; Judges 13:18). Manoah’s question shows healthy curiosity, not skepticism. so that we may honor you Manoah plans to show gratitude once the promise is fulfilled. To “honor” can include: • Bringing an offering, as Gideon did when the Angel met him (Judges 6:17-20). • Building an altar to commemorate divine intervention (Genesis 35:14). • Publicly acknowledging God’s work before others (Psalm 50:23). His intent is worshipful, but verse 16 will redirect that honor fully to the LORD, reminding us that true messengers never accept glory reserved for God (Revelation 19:10). when your word comes to pass? Faith shines here. Manoah speaks of the future as certain, echoing Abraham, who “considered Him faithful who had promised” (Hebrews 11:11). He does not say “if,” but “when,” standing in contrast to Zacharias’s doubt centuries later (Luke 1:18-20). Manoah’s confidence models how believers should treat every word God speaks: as guaranteed (Numbers 23:19; 2 Corinthians 1:20). summary Manoah’s request reveals a man who recognizes divine authority, desires deeper revelation of God’s character, longs to give proper worship, and trusts completely that God’s promise will be fulfilled. Judges 13:17 therefore teaches that honoring God begins with knowing Him, continues in obedient worship, and rests on unshakable faith in the certainty of His word. |
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