What other biblical figures demonstrated similar valor as Abishai in 1 Chronicles 11:20? Abishai’s Benchmark of Bravery “Abishai…lifted his spear against three hundred men and killed them, and he won a name alongside the Three.” (1 Chronicles 11:20) Champions Standing Shoulder-to-Shoulder with Abishai • Josheb-Basshebeth (Adino the Eznite) – “He wielded his spear against eight hundred men, whom he killed at one time.” (2 Samuel 23:8) • Eleazar son of Dodo – “He arose and struck down the Philistines until his hand grew weary and clung to the sword.” (2 Samuel 23:9-10) • Shammah son of Agee – “He took his stand in the midst of the plot, defended it, and struck down the Philistines; and the LORD brought about a great victory.” (2 Samuel 23:11-12) • Benaiah son of Jehoiada – “He went down and struck a lion in a pit on a snowy day…He also killed an impressive Egyptian…He snatched the spear from the Egyptian’s hand and killed him with his own spear.” (1 Chronicles 11:22-23) Older-Testament Heroes of Comparable Courage • Jonathan – With only his armor-bearer, he routed a Philistine outpost. “Nothing can hinder the LORD from saving, whether by many or by few.” (1 Samuel 14:6-15) • David – As a youth, he faced Goliath armed with faith and a sling. “The battle belongs to the LORD.” (1 Samuel 17:47) • Gideon – Led 300 men against the Midianite multitude, trusting God’s strategy over numbers. (Judges 7) • Samson – Struck down a thousand Philistines with a donkey’s jawbone. (Judges 15:15-16) • Caleb – At 85, asked for and conquered the hill country of the Anakim. “I am still as strong today as I was…now give me this hill country.” (Joshua 14:11-12) Shared Marks of God-Empowered Valor • Confidence rooted in God’s promises, not personal prowess. • Readiness to act when others hesitated. • Zeal to defend God’s people and honor His name. • Victories credited to “the LORD who saves,” underscoring divine enablement over human strength (Psalm 44:6-7). |
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