Judges 6:31

But Joash said to all who stood against him, "Are you contending for Baal? Are you trying to save him? Whoever pleads his case will be put to death by morning! If Baal is a god, let him contend for himself with the one who has torn down his altar."

Study Bible

But Joash said to all who stood against him
Joash, the father of Gideon, speaks to the men of the town who are angered by the destruction of Baal's altar. This indicates Joash's position of authority and influence within the community. His response is significant as it shows a shift from idolatry to a defense of his son’s actions, possibly indicating a change in his own beliefs or a protective instinct. This moment reflects the tension between the worship of Yahweh and the prevalent Canaanite practices, highlighting the spiritual conflict in Israel during the time of the Judges.

“Are you contending for Baal?
Joash challenges the townspeople by questioning their defense of Baal, a Canaanite deity. This rhetorical question exposes the futility of worshiping a god who cannot defend himself. It underscores the biblical theme of the impotence of idols, as seen in other scriptures like Isaiah 44:9-20, where the prophet mocks the creation and worship of idols. Joash's question implies that if Baal were truly a god, he would not need human defense.

Are you trying to save him?
This question further emphasizes the absurdity of the situation. The idea of humans needing to save a deity is ironic and highlights the powerlessness of Baal compared to the God of Israel. This reflects the biblical narrative that only the true God is the Savior, as seen in Isaiah 43:11, where God declares, "I, even I, am the LORD, and apart from me there is no savior."

Whoever pleads his case will be put to death by morning!
Joash issues a stern warning to those who would defend Baal, suggesting that such actions are not only futile but also deserving of death. This reflects the seriousness of idolatry in Israelite law, where worshiping other gods was a capital offense (Deuteronomy 13:6-10). Joash's declaration serves as a turning point, protecting Gideon and reinforcing the call to return to the worship of Yahweh.

If Baal is a god, let him contend for himself
Joash's statement challenges the power and existence of Baal, suggesting that a true deity would not need human intervention. This echoes the biblical theme of God’s sovereignty and power, as seen in the story of Elijah on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18:20-40), where the impotence of Baal is similarly exposed. It serves as a call to recognize the one true God who acts on behalf of His people.

with the one who has torn down his altar.”
The phrase refers to Gideon, who, under divine instruction, destroyed the altar of Baal. This act of defiance against idolatry is a pivotal moment in Gideon's story, marking the beginning of his role as a judge and deliverer of Israel. It foreshadows the ultimate victory of God over false gods and points to the New Testament fulfillment in Christ, who triumphs over all spiritual powers and authorities (Colossians 2:15).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joash
The father of Gideon, who defends his son’s actions against the townspeople who are angry about the destruction of Baal's altar.

2. Gideon
The son of Joash, chosen by God to deliver Israel from the Midianites. He destroys the altar of Baal as commanded by God.

3. Baal
A Canaanite deity whose worship had infiltrated Israel, leading them away from the worship of Yahweh.

4. The Townspeople
The people of Ophrah who are angered by the destruction of Baal's altar and seek to punish Gideon.

5. Ophrah
The location where these events take place, specifically the hometown of Gideon and his family.

Teaching Points

Courage in Obedience
Gideon's actions demonstrate the courage required to obey God, even when it means standing against cultural norms and facing potential backlash.

The Futility of Idolatry
Joash's argument highlights the impotence of false gods, reminding believers of the power and sovereignty of the one true God.

Defending the Faith
Joash's defense of Gideon serves as an example of standing firm in faith and truth, even when it is unpopular or dangerous.

God's Sovereignty
The passage underscores the belief that God is in control and that false gods cannot contend with His power.

Family Influence
Joash's support of Gideon shows the importance of family in nurturing and defending faith, encouraging believers to support one another in their spiritual journeys.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joash's response to the townspeople reflect his understanding of God's power compared to Baal's?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate courage in our faith today, similar to Gideon's actions?

3. How does the account of Gideon and Joash challenge us to confront modern-day idols in our lives?

4. What role does family play in supporting and defending our faith, as seen in Joash's defense of Gideon?

5. How can we apply the principle of God's sovereignty over false gods to situations we face in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 18
Elijah's confrontation with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, where he challenges Baal to prove his divinity, similar to Joash's challenge.

Exodus 20:3-5
The commandment against idolatry, which Gideon’s actions directly support by tearing down the altar of Baal.

Psalm 115:4-8
A description of the futility of idols, reinforcing Joash's argument that Baal should defend himself if he is truly a god.

Acts 19:23-41
The riot in Ephesus over the goddess Artemis, showing the conflict between the worship of false gods and the truth of the Gospel.