Judges 10:7

So the anger of the LORD burned against Israel, and He sold them into the hands of the Philistines and Ammonites,

Study Bible

So the anger of the LORD burned against Israel
The phrase "the anger of the LORD" is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, often indicating God's righteous indignation towards the sin and disobedience of His people. The Hebrew word for "anger" here is "אַף" (aph), which can also mean "nostril" or "face," suggesting a vivid image of God's wrath as something that is deeply personal and intense. This anthropomorphic expression helps convey the seriousness of Israel's transgressions. Historically, Israel's repeated cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance is a central theme in the Book of Judges, illustrating the consequences of turning away from God. The phrase "burned against" further emphasizes the intensity of God's response, indicating not just displeasure but a consuming wrath that demands attention and action.

and He sold them into the hands of the Philistines and the Ammonites
The term "sold them" is significant, as it implies a relinquishing of protection and a handing over to foreign powers. In Hebrew, the word "מָכַר" (makar) is used, which can mean to sell or to give over. This reflects a judicial action by God, allowing Israel to experience the consequences of their idolatry and covenant unfaithfulness. The Philistines and the Ammonites were two of Israel's most persistent enemies, representing external threats that God used to discipline His people. Archaeological evidence and historical records confirm the presence and power of these groups during the period of the Judges. The Philistines, known for their advanced iron technology and military prowess, and the Ammonites, descendants of Lot, were instruments in God's hands to bring Israel to a place of repentance. This phrase underscores the sovereignty of God in using even Israel's enemies to fulfill His divine purposes and to draw His people back to Himself.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, whose anger is kindled due to Israel's disobedience and idolatry.

2. Israel
The chosen people of God, who repeatedly fall into cycles of sin, idolatry, and repentance.

3. Philistines
A neighboring people and frequent adversaries of Israel, known for their military strength and oppression of Israel.

4. Ammonites
Another neighboring group, often in conflict with Israel, who also oppress them during this period.

5. Judges
The leaders raised by God to deliver Israel from oppression, though not directly mentioned in this verse, they are central to the context of the book.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
God's anger is a direct response to Israel's idolatry and disobedience. This serves as a reminder that sin has serious consequences.

God's Sovereignty in Discipline
The phrase "He sold them into the hands" indicates God's control over the situation, using even their enemies to bring about correction and repentance.

The Cycle of Sin and Redemption
Israel's repeated cycle of sin and deliverance highlights the need for genuine repentance and reliance on God.

The Importance of Faithfulness
Israel's struggles remind us of the importance of remaining faithful to God and His commandments to avoid spiritual and physical oppression.

Hope in God's Deliverance
Despite Israel's failures, God continually raises up judges to deliver them, pointing to His mercy and the ultimate deliverance through Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the anger of the LORD in Judges 10:7 reflect His character and covenant relationship with Israel?

2. In what ways do the Philistines and Ammonites serve as instruments of God's discipline, and how can this understanding affect our view of challenges in our lives?

3. How does the cycle of sin and redemption in Judges apply to our personal spiritual journey today?

4. What steps can we take to remain faithful to God and avoid the pitfalls of idolatry and disobedience seen in Israel's history?

5. How does the theme of deliverance in Judges point us to the ultimate deliverance found in Jesus Christ, and how can this shape our daily walk with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, providing a backdrop for understanding why God's anger was kindled against Israel.

Judges 2:11-19
This passage describes the cyclical pattern of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance that characterizes the period of the Judges.

1 Samuel 12:9-11
Samuel recounts the history of Israel's disobedience and God's deliverance through judges, reinforcing the themes seen in Judges 10:7.

Psalm 106:40-42
This psalm reflects on Israel's repeated rebellion and God's response, similar to the events in Judges.