This coming Lord’s Day we will begin looking at one of the most well-known characters in the Book of Judges, second only to Samson, and his name is “Gideon.” I’m confident that most of you know a good bit about this man, whose Hebrew name means something rather odd like ‘one who cuts down,’ or ‘chops.’ And you will also likely remember that this man “Gideon” is mentioned in the New Testament. He appears in that place in the Epistle of Hebrews where we find the ‘roll call’ of those Old Testament men and women who believed God’s Word and served Him faithfully (11:32).

Well, on Sunday we are going to begin telling Gideon’s remarkable story, which is the subject of chapters 6-8. We will get our study underway by looking at the setting for his appearance on the scene of Israel’s colorful history. This is set forth in Judges 6:1-10. And as we get to know this man, as well as his times and place in the drama of redemption, we will learn some very important lessons about being Christians, true and faithful believers in our Lord Jesus Christ.

As you reflect upon this passage (and the larger context of Judges 6-8), take notice of the statement that ends chapter 5: “And the land had rest for forty years.” Then compare it to the blunt words that begin chapter 6: “The people of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the Lord . . . .” How did God’s redeemed people go from “rest” to “evil” in the mere span of one verse? Let’s pray that the Lord will show us the answer!