Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, Gideon, also known as Jerubbaal, emerges as a significant figure during the period of the Judges, a time characterized by Israel's cyclical pattern of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. Gideon's account is primarily found in the Book of Judges, chapters 6 to 8. He is called by God to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Midianites, a task for which he seeks divine confirmation through signs.Context and Background The Israelites, having once again turned away from God, find themselves oppressed by the Midianites. The Midianites, along with the Amalekites and other eastern peoples, would invade Israel, destroying crops and livestock, leaving the Israelites impoverished and desperate (Judges 6:1-6). In response to their cries, God raises up Gideon, a man from the tribe of Manasseh, to deliver His people. The Angel of the LORD Appears to Gideon Gideon's initial encounter with the divine occurs when the Angel of the LORD appears to him while he is threshing wheat in a winepress to hide it from the Midianites. The Angel addresses him as a "mighty warrior" and assures him of the LORD's presence (Judges 6:11-12). Gideon, however, questions the LORD's presence, citing the current plight of Israel and the apparent absence of divine intervention (Judges 6:13). The First Sign: The Consumed Offering Seeking assurance of his divine commission, Gideon requests a sign. He prepares an offering of a young goat, unleavened bread, and broth, which he presents to the Angel of the LORD. The Angel instructs Gideon to place the offering on a rock and pour out the broth. Upon touching the offering with the tip of His staff, fire flares from the rock, consuming the offering. This miraculous event confirms to Gideon that he is indeed in the presence of the LORD (Judges 6:17-21). The Second Sign: The Fleece Despite the initial sign, Gideon seeks further confirmation. He devises a test involving a fleece of wool. He asks that dew fall only on the fleece while the ground remains dry. God graciously grants this request, and the next morning, Gideon wrings a bowlful of water from the fleece while the ground is dry (Judges 6:36-38). Still desiring assurance, Gideon requests the reverse: that the fleece remain dry while the ground is covered with dew. God again complies, providing Gideon with the confirmation he seeks (Judges 6:39-40). Significance and Interpretation Gideon's request for signs reflects both his cautious nature and the gravity of the task before him. The signs serve to bolster his faith and confirm God's presence and promise of victory. From a theological perspective, these signs underscore God's patience and willingness to meet His servants in their doubts, providing assurance and strength for the mission ahead. Gideon's account, including the signs he received, is often cited as an example of God's faithfulness and the importance of seeking divine guidance. It highlights the balance between human frailty and divine empowerment, illustrating how God equips those He calls, even when they feel inadequate for the task. Nave's Topical Index Judges 6:17,36-40And he said to him, If now I have found grace in your sight, then show me a sign that you talk with me. Nave's Topical Index Library Gideon's Fleece The King 'Blessing' his People Faith and Courage. On the Words of the Gospel, John vi. 53, "Except Ye Eat the Flesh ... The Miracles None Greater than John the Baptist, Yet. . . The Story of Samson, the Strong Man Of the Sacraments. Sermons on Selected Lessons of the Gospels. A Treatise on Re-Baptism by an Anonymous Writer. Resources What does INRI stand for? What was written on the sign nailed to the cross above Jesus' head? | GotQuestions.orgIs ISIS a sign of the end times? | GotQuestions.org Does the Bible say that an increase in technology is a sign of the end times? | GotQuestions.org Sign: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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