Judges 8:35

They did not show kindness to the house of Jerubbaal (that is, Gideon) for all the good things he had done for Israel.

Study Bible

They did not show kindness to the house of Jerubbaal
The phrase highlights the ingratitude of the Israelites towards Gideon's family. Jerubbaal, another name for Gideon, means "Let Baal contend against him," reflecting his role in tearing down the altar of Baal (Judges 6:32). This lack of kindness is significant in the context of ancient Israel, where familial loyalty and gratitude were highly valued. The Israelites' failure to honor Gideon's family contrasts with the covenantal loyalty expected in the community, as seen in other parts of the Old Testament, such as the loyalty shown to David's house (2 Samuel 9:1).

(that is, Gideon)
Gideon, a judge of Israel, was a military leader and prophet who delivered Israel from Midianite oppression (Judges 6-8). His leadership was marked by faith in God, as demonstrated in the miraculous victory with only 300 men (Judges 7:7). The mention of both names emphasizes his dual role as a warrior against idolatry and a leader of Israel. Gideon's story is a type of Christ, as he was a savior figure who delivered his people, prefiguring Jesus' ultimate deliverance from sin.

for all the good things he had done for Israel.
Gideon's contributions included military victories and a period of peace lasting 40 years (Judges 8:28). His actions were instrumental in restoring Israel's faith in God and freeing them from foreign oppression. The phrase underscores the theme of human forgetfulness and ingratitude, which is a recurring issue in Israel's history (Psalm 78:11). This ingratitude foreshadows the rejection of Jesus, who, despite His good works, was not accepted by many of His own people (John 1:11).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gideon (Jerubbaal)
A judge of Israel who led the Israelites to victory against the Midianites. He is also known as Jerubbaal, which means "Let Baal contend against him," reflecting his stand against idolatry.

2. House of Jerubbaal
Refers to Gideon's family and descendants. Despite Gideon's leadership and deliverance of Israel, his family was not shown gratitude or loyalty by the Israelites.

3. Israel
The nation that Gideon delivered from the oppression of the Midianites. The people of Israel failed to remember and honor the contributions of Gideon and his family.

4. Midianites
The oppressors of Israel during Gideon's time. Gideon's victory over them was a significant event in Israel's history, showcasing God's deliverance through Gideon.

5. Shechem
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, Shechem is a significant location in the account of Judges, particularly in the events following Gideon's death, where Abimelech, Gideon's son, sought power.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Gratitude
Recognize and express gratitude for those whom God uses to bless and lead us. Ingratitude can lead to a cycle of forgetfulness and disobedience.

Legacy and Honor
Consider how we honor the legacy of those who have gone before us in faith. Reflect on how we can support and uphold the families and ministries of those who have served faithfully.

The Consequences of Forgetfulness
Understand that failing to remember and honor God's work through His servants can lead to spiritual decline and societal instability.

God's Faithfulness vs. Human Forgetfulness
While humans often forget the good done for them, God remains faithful. Trust in His unchanging nature and strive to emulate His faithfulness in our relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the ingratitude shown to Gideon's family reflect the broader spiritual condition of Israel at the time?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we do not forget the contributions of those who have led and served us in our spiritual journey?

3. How does the account of Gideon challenge us to respond to God's calling, even when recognition and gratitude are not guaranteed?

4. What are some practical ways we can show kindness and support to the families of those who have served faithfully in ministry?

5. How can the themes of gratitude and remembrance in Judges 8:35 be applied to our personal and communal worship practices today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 6-7
These chapters provide the background of Gideon's call by God, his destruction of the altar of Baal, and his leadership in defeating the Midianites, setting the stage for the ingratitude shown in Judges 8:35.

1 Samuel 12
Samuel recounts the history of Israel, including Gideon's role, reminding the people of God's deliverance through judges like Gideon, and highlighting the recurring theme of Israel's forgetfulness and ingratitude.

Luke 17:11-19
The account of the ten lepers healed by Jesus, where only one returns to give thanks, parallels the theme of ingratitude and the importance of recognizing and appreciating God's work through His servants.