What is the meaning of Judges 3:18? After Ehud had finished presenting the tribute Judges 3:18a: “After Ehud had finished presenting the tribute…” • Israel’s subjection under Moab meant regular tribute payments (Judges 3:14; 2 Kings 17:3–4). • Ehud, a Benjamite (Judges 3:15), faithfully completes the public duty of delivering wealth to King Eglon. Nothing here feels accidental; Scripture shows the Lord using ordinary acts to set up extraordinary deliverance (Genesis 45:5–8; Esther 4:14). • Presenting the tribute signals closure of a formal ceremony. Only once everything is handed over can Ehud pivot to the secret mission God has placed in his heart (Judges 3:16; Psalm 115:3). • The verse underscores God’s timing: obedience precedes rescue. Ehud does not skip the lawful step; he fulfills it, then God opens the next door (Luke 16:10). he ushered out those who had carried it Judges 3:18b: “…he ushered out those who had carried it.” • The carriers—likely strong, trusted Israelites—have finished their task. Ehud dismisses them, protecting them from danger and shielding his plan (Proverbs 2:11). • Escorting them out also removes witnesses. Scripture often highlights strategic separation before decisive moments: Abraham and the servants at Moriah (Genesis 22:5), Elisha and Gehazi outside the room (2 Kings 4:4). • Ehud now stands alone before Eglon, mirroring future solitary confrontations for God’s glory—David before Goliath (1 Samuel 17:32), Elijah on Carmel (1 Kings 18:22). • God’s deliverance frequently arises through a single obedient servant. By ushering the carriers away, Ehud demonstrates courage and faith, trusting the Lord to act through him alone (Zechariah 4:6; Hebrews 11:32–34). summary Judges 3:18 marks a critical hinge in the narrative. Ehud completes a required act of tribute, then discreetly clears the room, positioning himself for the rescue God ordained. The verse teaches that faithful obedience, wise planning, and courageous isolation can all be means by which the Lord brings deliverance to His people. |
    |