Judges 3:17 – “He presented the tribute to Eglon king of Moab, who was a very fat man.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Judges 3:17 captures a pivotal moment in the story of Ehud, Israel’s deliverer. Ehud, tasked with bringing tribute to Eglon, king of Moab, uses this opportunity to execute God’s plan of deliverance for Israel. The tribute, likely a tax or offering given to Eglon as a sign of submission, was part of Ehud’s cover, allowing him access to the Moabite king. The verse also notes that Eglon was a very fat man, a detail that plays a role in the events that follow. This description of Eglon hints at his indulgent and excessive lifestyle, symbolizing the oppressive weight of his rule over Israel.
Historical Context
During the time of Judges, Israel frequently found itself oppressed by foreign rulers due to their repeated disobedience to God. After eighteen years of suffering under Eglon, the Israelites cried out to God, and He raised up Ehud to deliver them. Eglon’s reign over Israel was marked by heavy taxation and control, which is symbolized by the tribute brought by Ehud. This act of bringing tribute was a regular part of Israel’s subjugation, highlighting the humiliation and burden they experienced under foreign rule. Ehud’s mission was a turning point where God’s deliverance began to unfold through an unexpected and daring plan.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse demonstrates how God works through ordinary events to accomplish His extraordinary plans. Ehud’s presentation of the tribute appears to be a simple act of submission, but it was part of a larger, divinely orchestrated plan. It shows that God is not limited to grand gestures; He often works through the mundane, everyday actions of His people to bring about His purposes. Eglon’s excessive lifestyle and physical condition also serve as a reminder of the corrupting influence of unchecked power and self-indulgence, contrasting sharply with the humble, obedient Ehud whom God used.
Literary Analysis
Judges 3:17 uses vivid imagery to set the scene, emphasizing Eglon’s physical appearance and the act of presenting the tribute. The detail of Eglon being a “very fat man” is not just descriptive but symbolic, representing the weight of oppression that Israel bore under his rule. This detail foreshadows the events that will unfold, adding tension and anticipation to the narrative. The tribute serves as both a literal and figurative representation of Israel’s submission to Eglon, highlighting the dire state of their circumstances before God’s intervention through Ehud.
Biblical Cross-References
- Proverbs 16:18 – Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall, reflecting the downfall of Eglon’s indulgent and oppressive rule.
- Psalm 18:17 – God delivers His people from their strong enemies and those who are too mighty for them, echoing God’s intervention through Ehud.
- 1 Corinthians 1:27 – God uses the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, mirroring how He used Ehud’s simple presentation of tribute to bring about deliverance.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Judges 3:17 is a reminder that God often works in unexpected ways through everyday actions. Ehud’s simple act of delivering a tribute was part of a much bigger plan, showing us that God can use ordinary moments to accomplish His extraordinary purposes. It encourages believers not to overlook the significance of seemingly small actions or opportunities, as they might be part of God’s plan. This verse also serves as a warning against the dangers of pride, indulgence, and the oppressive nature of sin, reminding us to stay humble and obedient to God.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s involvement in the events of this verse reflects His deep care for His people. Even though Israel had repeatedly turned away from Him, God still responded to their cries and began to orchestrate their deliverance. God’s willingness to work through Ehud’s seemingly simple task of presenting tribute shows that He meets His people where they are, using their current circumstances to bring about His redemption. It highlights God’s patience and readiness to act on behalf of those who turn back to Him, demonstrating His unwavering love.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Ehud’s mission to deliver Israel through a strategic and unexpected act points forward to the ultimate deliverance provided by Jesus Christ. While Ehud’s act of presenting tribute was the first step in a daring rescue, Jesus’ humble appearance in human form was the beginning of God’s ultimate plan for salvation. In Philippians 2:7-8, we read that Jesus made Himself nothing, taking on the form of a servant and humbling Himself to the point of death on a cross. Just as Ehud’s approach was unexpected, Christ’s path to victory through sacrifice and humility defied all expectations, providing the ultimate rescue from sin.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you be mindful of the seemingly ordinary opportunities God might use in your life for a greater purpose?
- In what ways do you see God working through simple or everyday actions to accomplish His will?
- How does the story of Ehud challenge you to trust God’s plan, even when it seems unconventional or unexpected?
- How does Jesus’ humble approach to delivering us from sin inspire you to embrace humility and obedience in your own life?