In the Bible, there are many stories of individuals who were called by God to do great things. One such person is Gideon. Gideon was a judge and military leader who lived during a time when the Israelites were being oppressed by the Midianites.
Despite his initial reluctance, Gideon went on to lead the Israelites to victory over their oppressors. In this article, we will take a closer look at who Gideon was and what he did in the Bible. We will examine his key actions and the lessons we can learn from his story.
Who was Gideon in the Bible?
Gideon was a judge and military leader in the Bible. He lived during a time when the Israelites were being oppressed by the Midianites. Gideon was from the tribe of Manasseh and was chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from their oppressors. Despite his initial doubts and fears, Gideon eventually stepped up to the challenge and became a courageous leader.
Gideon is described as a humble and obedient servant of God. He was known for his faith and willingness to follow God’s instructions, even when they seemed unconventional. Gideon’s story is a testament to the power of God’s calling and the strength that can be found in trusting in Him. Through Gideon’s actions, we can learn valuable lessons about courage, faith, and the importance of relying on God in times of adversity.
What Did Gideon Do in the Bible? – Key Actions
#1. Called by God
Gideon’s story begins with a divine call from God. In Judges 6:11-12, the Angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon and said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.” Despite Gideon’s doubts about his own abilities, God assured him that He would be with him and that Gideon would deliver Israel from the Midianites.
Gideon’s calling by God marked the beginning of his journey as a leader and deliverer for the Israelites. It was a significant moment in his life, as he was chosen by God to fulfill a specific purpose. This divine encounter gave Gideon the confidence and assurance he needed to step into his role as a mighty warrior.
#2. Fleece Test
To confirm God’s call, Gideon asked for a sign. In Judges 6:36-40, Gideon placed a fleece of wool on the ground and asked God to make it wet with dew while keeping the surrounding ground dry. God granted his request. Gideon then asked for the opposite sign, and again God granted it. This confirmed to Gideon that God was truly with him.
The fleece test was a way for Gideon to seek confirmation and reassurance from God. It demonstrated Gideon’s desire for certainty and his willingness to trust in God’s guidance. By granting Gideon’s requests, God showed His patience and understanding, affirming Gideon’s faith and preparing him for the challenges ahead.
#3. Gathering an Army
With God’s assurance, Gideon gathered an army of 32,000 men to fight against the Midianites. However, God told Gideon that the army was too large and that the Israelites might take credit for the victory. In Judges 7:2-3, God instructed Gideon to allow anyone who was afraid to leave. As a result, 22,000 men left, leaving only 10,000.
Gideon’s task of gathering an army was an important step towards fulfilling God’s plan. However, God had a different plan in mind. By reducing the size of the army, God wanted to demonstrate His power and ensure that the victory would be attributed to Him alone. This process also tested the faith and commitment of Gideon and his remaining soldiers.
#4. Reduction of the Army
God further reduced Gideon’s army to just 300 men. In Judges 7:4-7, God instructed Gideon to bring the men to the water and observe how they drank. Those who lapped the water like a dog were chosen, while those who knelt down to drink were sent home. With this small but dedicated group, Gideon was ready to face the Midianites.
The reduction of the army to only 300 men was a remarkable demonstration of God’s power and wisdom. By selecting those who lapped the water like a dog, God ensured that Gideon would have a group of warriors who were alert, focused, and ready for battle. This unconventional approach highlighted the importance of faith and obedience in achieving victory.
#5. Battle Tactics
In Judges 7:16-22, Gideon divided his 300 men into three groups and gave each man a trumpet and a clay jar with a torch inside. They surrounded the Midianite camp at night and at Gideon’s signal, they blew their trumpets, broke the jars, and shouted, “A sword for the Lord and for Gideon!” The Midianites were thrown into confusion and began to fight each other.
Gideon’s battle tactics were unconventional yet effective. By dividing his small army into three groups and utilizing the element of surprise, Gideon was able to create chaos and confusion among the Midianites. The use of trumpets, broken jars, and shouts further disoriented the enemy, leading to their self-destruction. This strategic approach showcased Gideon’s leadership and God’s intervention.
#6. Victory over the Midianites
With God’s help, Gideon and his small army defeated the Midianites. In Judges 7:23-25, the Midianites fled in panic, and Gideon pursued them. He called for reinforcements from the tribes of Ephraim, Manasseh, and Benjamin, and together they captured the Midianite leaders. The Israelites were finally free from the oppression of the Midianites.
The victory over the Midianites was a significant achievement for Gideon and the Israelites. It marked the fulfillment of God’s promise and the deliverance of His people from their oppressors. Gideon’s leadership, courage, and reliance on God’s guidance were instrumental in achieving this victory. The capture of the Midianite leaders further solidified the triumph and ensured the safety of the Israelites.
#7. Pursuit and Capture
Gideon continued to pursue the Midianites and captured their two kings, Zebah and Zalmunna. In Judges 8:18-21, Gideon confronted the kings and asked them about the men they had killed. The kings admitted to killing Gideon’s brothers, and in response, Gideon killed them both. This act of justice avenged his family and further solidified the victory over the Midianites.
Gideon’s pursuit and capture of the Midianite kings demonstrated his determination and commitment to seeking justice for his family and his people. By holding the kings accountable for their actions, Gideon ensured that they would no longer pose a threat to the Israelites. This act of retribution served as a reminder of the consequences of oppressing God’s chosen people.
#8. Refusal of Kingship
After the victory, the Israelites wanted to make Gideon their king. However, Gideon refused, saying in Judges 8:23, “I will not rule over you, nor will my son rule over you. The Lord will rule over you.” Gideon recognized that it was God who had delivered them, and he did not want to take credit or authority that belonged to God alone.
Gideon’s refusal of kingship showcased his humility and devotion to God. Despite his significant role in the deliverance of the Israelites, Gideon acknowledged that it was God’s power and sovereignty that deserved the credit. By rejecting the offer of kingship, Gideon ensured that the Israelites would continue to recognize God as their ultimate ruler.
#9. Creation of an Ephod
Despite his refusal of kingship, Gideon made an ephod out of the gold plundered from the Midianites. In Judges 8:27, it is mentioned that this ephod became a snare to Gideon and his family, as the Israelites began to worship it as an idol. This incident serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of idolatry and the importance of staying faithful to God.
Gideon’s creation of an ephod was a misguided action that led to unintended consequences. While his intention may have been to create a symbol of remembrance or a representation of God’s faithfulness, the Israelites misunderstood its purpose and began to worship it as an idol. This incident highlights the potential pitfalls of human actions and the need for vigilance in maintaining true worship of God.
#10. Death of Gideon
Gideon lived for many years after the victory over the Midianites. However, in Judges 8:32, it is mentioned that the Israelites turned away from God and began to worship the false god Baal. Gideon died, and the Israelites quickly forgot about the God who had delivered them. This highlights the cyclical nature of the Israelites’ faithfulness and the need for constant vigilance in following God.
Gideon’s death marked the end of an era and the beginning of a period of spiritual decline for the Israelites. Despite Gideon’s leadership and the miraculous victories they had experienced, the Israelites once again fell into idolatry and turned away from God. This cycle of faithfulness and disobedience serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining steadfast in one’s devotion to God.
Closing Thoughts
Gideon’s story in the Bible is a powerful testament to the strength of faith, the importance of obedience, and the enduring presence of God in the lives of His people. From his initial doubts to his ultimate triumph over the Midianites, Gideon’s journey is filled with valuable lessons and insights.
His unwavering trust in God, his humility in refusing kingship, and his commitment to seeking justice serve as inspiring examples for believers today. However, his creation of the ephod and the subsequent idolatry among the Israelites also serve as cautionary tales. Gideon’s story reminds us of the complexities of human nature and the constant need for vigilance in our relationship with God.