Judges 6:23

But the LORD said to him, "Peace be with you. Do not be afraid, for you will not die."

Study Bible

But the LORD said to him
In this passage, the LORD is speaking directly to Gideon. This divine communication is significant, as it demonstrates God's personal involvement in the lives of His chosen leaders. Throughout the Old Testament, God often speaks directly to individuals to provide guidance, reassurance, or commands, as seen with figures like Moses (Exodus 3:4) and Samuel (1 Samuel 3:10). This direct communication underscores the importance of Gideon's role in delivering Israel from Midianite oppression.

Peace be with you
The phrase "Peace be with you" is a common biblical expression of reassurance and blessing. In Hebrew, the word for peace is "shalom," which encompasses not only the absence of conflict but also completeness, welfare, and harmony. This greeting is significant in the context of Gideon's fear and uncertainty. It echoes the peace that Jesus offers to His disciples in John 14:27, indicating a deeper spiritual peace that transcends circumstances.

Do not be afraid
This command is frequently given by God to His people throughout Scripture, often when they are facing daunting tasks or divine encounters. It serves to calm fears and encourage trust in God's presence and power. Similar exhortations are found in Joshua 1:9 and Isaiah 41:10, where God reassures His people of His support and strength. This phrase highlights the importance of faith over fear in the believer's life.

for you will not die
In the ancient Near Eastern context, it was a common belief that seeing God or an angel of the LORD face-to-face would result in death (Exodus 33:20). Gideon's fear of dying after his encounter with the angel of the LORD reflects this cultural understanding. God's assurance that Gideon will not die emphasizes His grace and the protective nature of His presence. This assurance is a precursor to the New Testament revelation of eternal life through Jesus Christ, who conquers death and offers life to all who believe in Him (John 11:25-26).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gideon
A judge of Israel, chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from the oppression of the Midianites. He is initially fearful and doubtful of his calling.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who appears to Gideon to commission him for a divine mission. His reassurance to Gideon is central to this passage.

3. Midianites
A nomadic people who oppressed Israel during the time of Gideon, causing the Israelites to cry out to God for deliverance.

4. Ophrah
The place where Gideon encounters the angel of the LORD and receives his commission. It becomes a significant location for Gideon's account.

5. Angel of the LORD
A manifestation of God who appears to Gideon, often understood as a theophany, or a visible appearance of God to humans.

Teaching Points

God's Reassurance in Fear
Just as God reassured Gideon, He reassures us in our fears. We can trust in His peace and presence in our lives.

Divine Calling and Human Doubt
Gideon's initial fear and doubt are common human responses to divine calling. God is patient and provides assurance.

Peace as a Gift from God
The peace God offers is not just the absence of fear but a profound sense of well-being and security in His presence.

God's Presence in Our Mission
Like Gideon, we are called to tasks that may seem daunting, but God's presence is our strength and assurance.

Transformation through Encounter
Gideon's encounter with God transforms him from a fearful individual to a leader. Our encounters with God can similarly transform us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Gideon's initial reaction to God's calling reflect our own responses to God's call in our lives?

2. In what ways can we experience the peace of God in our daily challenges, as Gideon did?

3. How does the reassurance "Do not be afraid, for you will not die" apply to our spiritual battles today?

4. What other biblical figures received reassurance from God in their moments of doubt, and how did it impact their mission?

5. How can we cultivate a deeper awareness of God's presence and peace in our lives, especially when facing fear or uncertainty?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3
The calling of Moses parallels Gideon's calling, where God reassures Moses of His presence and mission.

Isaiah 41:10
God's promise of peace and presence to His people, similar to His reassurance to Gideon.

Philippians 4:7
The peace of God that surpasses understanding, which is promised to believers, echoes the peace given to Gideon.