Topical Bible: Reproof: Faithfulness in Israelites, of the Tribe of Benjamin

◄ Reproof: Faithfulness in Israelites, of the Tribe of Benjamin ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

The concept of reproof, or correction, is a significant theme throughout the Bible, serving as a means by which God guides His people back to righteousness. Within the context of the Israelite tribes, the Tribe of Benjamin provides a compelling narrative of faithfulness intertwined with instances of reproof.

Historical Context

The Tribe of Benjamin, the smallest of the twelve tribes of Israel, holds a unique place in biblical history. Descended from Jacob's youngest son, Benjamin, this tribe was known for its fierce warriors and strategic location between the northern and southern kingdoms. Despite its size, the tribe played a pivotal role in Israel's history, producing notable figures such as King Saul, the first king of Israel, and the Apostle Paul, a key figure in the New Testament.

Instances of Reproof

1. The Incident at Gibeah: One of the most significant instances of reproof involving the Tribe of Benjamin is the incident at Gibeah, as recorded in Judges 19-21. The moral depravity and violence that occurred in Gibeah led to a civil war between the Tribe of Benjamin and the other Israelite tribes. The Benjaminites initially refused to surrender the perpetrators, resulting in a devastating conflict. The other tribes sought the Lord's guidance, and after several battles, the Benjaminites were nearly annihilated. This event served as a severe reproof, highlighting the consequences of sin and the importance of communal responsibility and justice.

· Judges 20:13 : "Now, hand over the wicked men of Gibeah so that we can put them to death and purge the evil from Israel." But the Benjamites refused to heed the voice of their fellow Israelites.

2. King Saul's Disobedience: Another notable instance of reproof is seen in the life of King Saul, a Benjaminite. Saul's failure to fully obey God's commands, particularly in the matter of the Amalekites, led to his rejection as king. The prophet Samuel delivered God's reproof, emphasizing the importance of obedience over sacrifice.

· 1 Samuel 15:22-23 : "But Samuel declared: 'Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, obedience is better than sacrifice, and attentiveness is better than the fat of rams. For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance is like the wickedness of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has rejected you as king.'"

Faithfulness Amidst Reproof

Despite these instances of reproof, the Tribe of Benjamin also demonstrated remarkable faithfulness. After the near destruction of the tribe following the incident at Gibeah, the remaining Benjaminites were restored and continued to play a vital role in Israel's history. Their resilience and eventual repentance allowed them to maintain their place among the tribes of Israel.

Moreover, the Apostle Paul, a Benjaminite, exemplifies the transformative power of reproof and faithfulness. Once a persecutor of Christians, Paul's encounter with Christ on the road to Damascus led to his profound conversion and subsequent faithfulness in spreading the Gospel. His life serves as a testament to the redemptive potential of divine reproof.

Conclusion

The narrative of the Tribe of Benjamin illustrates the dual themes of reproof and faithfulness. Through instances of correction, the tribe experienced both the severity of God's justice and the opportunity for restoration and continued service in His divine plan.

Nave's Topical Index

Judges 20:12,13
And the tribes of Israel sent men through all the tribe of Benjamin, saying, What wickedness is this that is done among you?
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Historical Books.
... of the Canaanites, and of the reproof administered to ... judges, with especial reference
to God's faithfulness in the ... that the oppression of the Israelites by the ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xx the historical books.htm

English Version of the Second Helvetic Confession, AD 1566.
... All Scripture given by inspiration of God is profitable for doctrine, for reproof,'
etc. ... To-morrow I will send unto thee a man of the tribe of Benjamin,' etc ...
/.../english version of the second.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... father"'Whether we were of the Israelites or no? ... occupation being then followed by
the Gipsy tribe. ... would not long continue without reproof, either personally ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm