Judges 8:7

"Very well," Gideon replied, "when the LORD has delivered Zebah and Zalmunna into my hand, I will tear your flesh with the thorns and briers of the wilderness!"

Study Bible

“Very well,” Gideon replied,
Gideon's response indicates his determination and confidence in the mission God has given him. This phrase reflects his leadership and decisiveness, qualities that were essential for a judge in Israel. Gideon's role as a judge was to deliver Israel from oppression, and his response here shows his commitment to that task.

“when the LORD has delivered Zebah and Zalmunna into my hand,
This phrase highlights Gideon's faith in God's promise and power. The use of "when" instead of "if" demonstrates his certainty that God will fulfill His promise. Zebah and Zalmunna were Midianite kings, and their defeat was crucial for Israel's deliverance. This reflects the recurring biblical theme of God delivering His people from their enemies, as seen in other scriptures like Exodus 14:13-14 and 1 Samuel 17:46.

I will tear your flesh with the thorns and briers of the wilderness!”
This phrase indicates the severity of the punishment Gideon intends to inflict on the men of Succoth for their refusal to help. The use of thorns and briers, common in the wilderness areas of Israel, symbolizes harsh judgment and suffering. This imagery is also used in other parts of the Bible to represent God's judgment, such as in Isaiah 10:17 and Hosea 2:6. The wilderness setting underscores the harshness and desolation associated with divine retribution.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gideon
A judge of Israel, chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from the oppression of the Midianites. Known for his faith and leadership, yet also for his human flaws and moments of doubt.

2. Zebah and Zalmunna
Kings of Midian who were enemies of Israel. Their defeat was crucial for the liberation of the Israelites from Midianite oppression.

3. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who empowers and delivers His people. Gideon acknowledges that victory comes from the LORD.

4. Thorns of the wilderness and briers
Symbolic of punishment and suffering. Gideon uses this imagery to convey the severity of the consequences for those who oppose God's deliverance.

5. Succoth
A city in Israel whose leaders refused to help Gideon and his men, leading to Gideon's pronouncement of judgment upon them.

Teaching Points

Trust in Divine Deliverance
Gideon's confidence in God's deliverance serves as a reminder to trust in God's power and timing, even when facing formidable challenges.

Consequences of Disobedience
The leaders of Succoth faced severe consequences for their lack of support, illustrating the importance of aligning with God's purposes and supporting His chosen leaders.

Leadership and Accountability
Gideon's actions demonstrate the responsibility of leaders to hold others accountable, especially when they hinder God's work.

Faith in Action
Gideon's faith was not passive; it led to decisive action. Believers are called to act on their faith, trusting in God's promises and guidance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Gideon's response to the leaders of Succoth reflect his faith in God's promise of victory?

2. In what ways can we see the consequences of disobedience to God in our own lives, similar to the leaders of Succoth?

3. How does Gideon's reliance on God for deliverance challenge us to trust God in our current struggles?

4. What can we learn from Gideon's leadership about holding others accountable in a way that honors God?

5. How does the account of Gideon encourage us to put our faith into action in practical ways today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 6-7
Provides the background of Gideon's calling and the miraculous victory over the Midianites, emphasizing God's power and Gideon's role as a deliverer.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages trust in the LORD rather than human understanding, paralleling Gideon's reliance on God's deliverance.

Hebrews 11:32-34
Mentions Gideon as a hero of faith, highlighting his role in overcoming enemies through faith in God.