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JEPHTHAH (I)
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2
Judges 10:6-18

1 Kings 9:1-9

 

“…if ye shall at all turn from

following me…”

 

JEPHTHAH (I)
 
After the period of peace under Tola and Jair, Israel gave herself again to idolatry. The sin and idolatry of Israel was widespread and recurring. It seems that they were steadfast and faithful as far as the judge was, and without a shepherd, they strayed like sheep with each one doing what was right in his own eyes. The diversity of their idolatrous forays reveals the extent of their depravity and weakness, as well as the enticing nature of the religions of the lands.
 
“And the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the LORD…” (Judg 10:6). The apostasy of Israel is highlighted and impressed upon us by repeated use of the conjunction “and” which is repeated eight times after the phrase “in the sight of the LORD.” The lure from the idolatrous practices of the nations surrounding them was clearly overwhelming. They forgot God, they forgot their history too, the past oppressions and deliverances, and as a dog returning to his vomit (Prov 26:11). Israel returned to the idols that had been the cause of her woes. After the death of a judge, the nation ran back to the idols that had previously caused their ruin, and compounded them with new idols. Israel was willing to serve all gods at so great a cost, and forsake the only true and living God who was their only salvation, revealing what is in man. He is quick to believe the lie and reject the truth. He is willing to follow every wind of doctrine, every superstition, every delusion, every lust and sinful indulgence, every deception, but forgets the truth and peace of God.
 
“And the anger of the LORD was hot against Israel” (Judg 10:7). The consequence and judgment for apostasy are equally highlighted for us both in the anger of the LORD poured out in the chastisement and oppression (Judg 10:7-10), as well as in the rebuke of the LORD (Judg 10:11-14). They had no legitimate claim for help at all, and were referred to seek help from their idols. However, where sin had abounded, grace did much more abound (Rom 5:20), and God would extend to them His grace once again.
 
THOUGHT: Obedience confirms allegiance. Either obey God or sin!
PRAYER: O Father, grant that we may not indulge ourselves but carefully consider how often we have provoked Thy wrath against us.

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