Gideon has changed. He is no longer hesitant. He shows a leader’s tact in dealing with Ephraim and responds to the cowardice of the men of Succoth and Penuel with unflinching anger. This is the first time in Judges that there is military action against their own people. Gideon also assassinates the kings responsible for his brother’s deaths and offers the killing blow to his son (perhaps as an insult to the kings). Is Gideon a just leader or an unrighteous tyrant? It depends on your perspective.
Perhaps we have a clue in the fact that he refuses to be king and instead directs the people to God. However, his actions in making an ephod eventually lead to idol worship. What we presume was supposed to be a sign of the Lord’s victory eventually became a snare for the people.
Thought for the day: Gideon also shows poor judgment by the taking of multiple wives. Perhaps Gideon is a cautionary tale to all of us about how pride can change us, and not for the better.
Proverbs 16:18 (WEB) “Pride goes before destruction, and an arrogant spirit before a fall.”
