Why did Jether hesitate to draw his sword in Judges 8:20? Setting the Scene Gideon has captured the Midianite kings, Zebah and Zalmunna. In keeping with ancient custom, he invites his firstborn, Jether, to administer the final justice—a humiliating blow to the defeated enemy. What the Verse Says “Then he said to his firstborn son Jether, ‘Rise, kill them.’ But the boy did not draw his sword; he was afraid, because he was still a youth.” (Judges 8:20) Key Factors Behind His Hesitation • Youth and Inexperience – The text stresses he was “still a youth,” highlighting limited training and emotional readiness. • Natural Fear of Bloodshed – Taking a life—especially in cold blood rather than heat-of-battle—can freeze even seasoned warriors; how much more a youngster. • Weight of Public Expectation – Execution in front of elders, soldiers, captives, and his own father added intense pressure. • Absence of Personal Calling – Gideon had heard God’s voice and seen miraculous signs (Judges 6:11-24); Jether had not. Without that direct assurance, courage faltered. • Respect for a Father’s Role – In patriarchal culture, decisive acts of leadership normally belonged to the head of the family. Jether may have sensed it was ultimately his father’s duty. Scriptures That Shed Light • Deuteronomy 20:8—“Is anyone afraid or fainthearted? Let him go and return home…” God Himself made allowances for fear in battle. • 1 Samuel 17:33—Saul tells David, “You are not able to go… you are only a youth.” Youth need divine empowerment to do adult tasks. • 2 Timothy 1:7—“For God has not given us a spirit of fear…” Fear is a real obstacle, yet God offers power to overcome it. • Proverbs 29:25—“The fear of man brings a snare…” Public pressure can paralyze decisive action. Takeaways for Today • Spiritual maturity and courage grow together; rushing a young believer into weighty tasks can overwhelm. • Fear can silence obedience, yet God patiently works with our limitations—Gideon himself steps in and completes the execution (Judges 8:21). • God’s record is honest: Scripture never sanitizes human weakness, reminding us of our need for His strength. • The same Lord who later emboldened David and Timothy is able to turn youthful hesitation into mature faith when we rely on Him. |
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