Destroying the Pagan Altar

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Test

Gideon’s father had set up an idol to Baal in a grove of trees on their land like the heathen nations around them. That very night God tested Gideon’s dedication by asking him to tear down his fathers’ altar and to build an altar to Jehovah in its place (vv. 25-26). In addition to this he was to sacrifice his fathers’ special bullock (probably reserved for Baal) on the new altar. Gideon (with the help of 10 trusted servants) obeyed the Lord, but he did it under the cover of darkness out of fear. (v. 27). His fear was well founded. When the local Baal-worshipers discovered the deed the next morning, they were furious and started hunting for the one responsible (v. 28). They were told, Gideon son of Joash had done it (v. 29). They marched on Gideon’s house and demanded that he be turned over to them for execution (v. 30). Joash, Gideon’s father responded by saying, “If (Baal) is a God let him contend for himself” (v. 31). That same day, Joash changed Gideon’s name to Jerubbaal (v. 32). After the crisis had passed Gideon became a hero and many of the tribes began to rally around him.

A swift military defense was needed (v. 33). The power of the Holy Spirit had fallen on Gideon, and he was prepared to deliver Israel (v. 34). And he sent messengers throughout all Manasseh, and the people were called to follow him. He sent messengers to Asher, Zebulun, and Naphtali, and they came up to meet him as well (v. 35). Gideon still had some doubts. The Lord reassured Gideon through the test of the wet and dry fleece (vv. 36-40). The Lord’s patience with us is remarkable. 

Application

When is the last time I failed to trust God to bring me through a difficult circumstance and I put out a fleece, so to speak, and asked God to do certain things to prove He was with me? God wants my faith to be in Him and not circumstances. (John 20:29).

Judges 6:25-40 (English Standard Version)


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