Judges 11:15

to tell him, "This is what Jephthah says: Israel did not take away the land of Moab or of the Ammonites.

Study Bible

to tell him
This phrase indicates a formal communication, often used in diplomatic or legal contexts in the ancient Near East. It suggests a message being delivered with authority and purpose. In biblical narratives, such communications often precede significant events or decisions, highlighting the importance of the message being conveyed.

“This is what Jephthah says:
Jephthah, a judge of Israel, is speaking with authority. His background as the son of a prostitute and a leader of a band of outcasts (Judges 11:1-3) contrasts with his role as a deliverer of Israel. This phrase underscores his position as a spokesperson for Israel, despite his humble beginnings, reflecting the biblical theme of God using unlikely individuals for His purposes.

Israel did not take away the land of Moab
This statement refers to the historical context of Israel's journey to the Promised Land. According to Numbers 21:26-30, Israel did not seize Moabite territory during their conquest. The Moabites were descendants of Lot (Genesis 19:37), and God had instructed Israel not to harass Moab or engage in battle with them (Deuteronomy 2:9). This reflects the divine boundaries set by God for Israel's conquests.

or of the Ammonites.
The Ammonites, also descendants of Lot (Genesis 19:38), were similarly not to be attacked by Israel (Deuteronomy 2:19). Jephthah's assertion is a defense against the Ammonite king's claim that Israel had unlawfully taken their land. This historical clarification is crucial in understanding the territorial disputes and divine instructions that shaped Israel's interactions with neighboring nations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jephthah
A judge of Israel, known for his leadership and vow. He was a Gileadite and the son of a prostitute, which initially led to his rejection by his family. He later became a leader and deliverer of Israel against the Ammonites.

2. Israel
The nation chosen by God, consisting of the descendants of Jacob. At this time, they were in conflict with the Ammonites over territorial disputes.

3. Moab
A neighboring nation to Israel, descended from Lot. The land of Moab was not taken by Israel during their conquest, as God had instructed them not to disturb Moab.

4. Ammonites
A people descended from Lot, like the Moabites. They were in conflict with Israel over land, claiming that Israel had taken their territory during the Exodus.

5. Gilead
A region east of the Jordan River, where Jephthah was from. It was a significant area during the time of the Judges.

Teaching Points

Understanding God's Commands
Jephthah's response highlights the importance of knowing and adhering to God's instructions. We should seek to understand God's will through His Word and apply it in our lives.

Resolving Conflicts with Truth
Jephthah uses historical truth to address the Ammonite claims. In our conflicts, we should rely on truth and integrity rather than deceit or aggression.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The passage reminds us that God is sovereign over all nations and their boundaries. We should trust in His plans and purposes, even when they are not immediately clear to us.

Leadership and Humility
Despite his background, Jephthah rises to leadership through God's providence. This teaches us that God can use anyone for His purposes, regardless of their past.

Faithfulness in Adversity
Jephthah's faithfulness in a difficult situation encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith, trusting that God will guide us through challenges.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jephthah's understanding of Israel's history influence his response to the Ammonites, and what can we learn from this about the importance of knowing our spiritual heritage?

2. In what ways does Jephthah's leadership reflect God's ability to use unlikely individuals for His purposes, and how can this encourage us in our own lives?

3. How does the conflict between Israel and the Ammonites illustrate the importance of resolving disputes with truth and integrity?

4. What does this passage teach us about God's sovereignty over nations and their boundaries, and how can this understanding impact our view of current global events?

5. How can we apply the principles of faithfulness and reliance on God's Word, as demonstrated by Jephthah, in our personal challenges and conflicts?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 21
This chapter provides background on Israel's journey and the lands they passed through, including the territories of Moab and Ammon. It clarifies that Israel did not take land from Moab or Ammon, supporting Jephthah's claim.

Deuteronomy 2
God instructs Israel not to harass Moab or Ammon, as their lands were given to them by God. This reinforces the legitimacy of Jephthah's argument.

Genesis 19
The origins of Moab and Ammon are found here, as they are descendants of Lot. This connection highlights the familial ties and historical context of the conflict.