Judges 6:27 – “So Gideon took ten of his servants and did as the Lord told him. But because he was afraid of his family and the townspeople, he did it at night rather than in the daytime.”
Extended Explanation
In Judges 6:27, Gideon obeys God’s command to tear down the altar of Baal and cut down the Asherah pole, but he does so at night because he fears his family and the townspeople. This verse captures Gideon’s struggle between obedience and fear. While he follows God’s instructions, his fear of backlash leads him to act under the cover of darkness. Gideon’s actions reveal his human frailty, showing that even those chosen by God can be fearful and hesitant. Despite his fear, Gideon’s obedience, even if timid, demonstrates his growing faith and willingness to do what God has called him to do, even when it’s uncomfortable or risky.
Historical Context
During this period, Israel was entrenched in idol worship, and the altars to Baal and Asherah were central to their misguided practices. Gideon’s family and the people of his town were deeply involved in this idolatry, which made God’s command to destroy these altars highly controversial and dangerous. For Gideon, obeying God’s command meant directly challenging the beliefs and practices of his own family and community. This background explains why Gideon acted at night—his fear of retaliation was rooted in the real and immediate threat of opposition from those closest to him.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights that following God often requires courage and a willingness to act despite fear. Theologically, it teaches that God’s commands sometimes put us at odds with our surroundings, and obedience may not always be easy or straightforward. Gideon’s actions remind us that God understands our fears but still calls us to obedience. Even when our faith feels small or our actions hesitant, God honors our willingness to follow Him. This passage shows that it’s okay to be afraid, but it’s essential to act in faith regardless of that fear.
Literary Analysis
The verse contrasts Gideon’s obedience with his fear, using the detail of night-time action to emphasize his caution. The narrative highlights Gideon’s humanity—he is not a fearless hero but a real person grappling with the challenges of obedience. The mention of his fear of family and townspeople adds depth to his character, making his actions relatable. The structure of the verse captures the tension between fear and faith, illustrating that even when our steps are small and tentative, they are still steps of obedience.
Biblical Cross-References
- Joshua 1:9: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” This command to Joshua parallels God’s encouragement to act in faith despite fear.
- 1 Samuel 15:24: Saul admits, “I was afraid of the men and so I gave in to them.” This verse contrasts with Gideon’s decision to obey despite fear, highlighting the importance of choosing God’s will over human opinion.
- Psalm 56:3: “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” This psalm captures the heart of acting in faith despite fear, much like Gideon’s nighttime obedience.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Judges 6:27 serves as a reminder that obedience to God can be challenging, especially when it goes against the grain of what those around us expect or approve of. It teaches that fear is a natural response, but it should not paralyze us. Instead, we are called to act in faith, trusting that God sees our struggles and honors our steps of obedience, no matter how hesitant they may be. This verse encourages believers to take action even when they are afraid, knowing that God values our faithfulness.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s loving nature in that He understands our fears and doesn’t demand perfect courage from us. God’s command to Gideon was difficult, yet God did not abandon him in his fear. Instead, God’s presence and guidance continued, showing that He meets us where we are, even when our faith feels weak. God’s love is patient, and He works with us as we grow in trust and obedience, providing the strength we need to overcome our fears.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ, who also faced fear and opposition but chose obedience to God above all. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prayed, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death” (Matthew 26:38), yet He still chose to follow God’s will. Jesus’ example teaches us that obedience is not the absence of fear but the choice to trust God above all else. Christ’s willingness to go to the cross despite fear and pain is the ultimate act of obedience, demonstrating the depth of His commitment to God’s plan.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What fears hold you back from fully obeying God’s call in your life?
- How does Gideon’s willingness to act, even at night, challenge you to take steps of faith despite your fears?
- In what ways can you trust God more when facing difficult decisions that may upset those around you?
- How does understanding God’s patience with our fears encourage you to keep moving forward in obedience?
- How does Jesus’ example of obedience, even in the face of great fear, inspire you to follow God’s will in your own life?