The book of Judges is the history of Israel during the government of the Judges, who were occasional deliverers, raised up by God to rescue Israel from their oppressors, to reform the state of religion, and to administer justice to the people. The state of God's people does not appear in this book so prosperous, nor their character so religious, as might have been expected; but there were many believers among them, and the tabernacle service was attended to. The history exemplifies the frequent warnings and predictions of Moses, and should have close attention. The whole is full of important instruction.
Proceedings of the tribes of Judah and Simeon. (1-8) Hebron and other cities taken. (9-20) The proceedings of other tribes. (21-36)
@Verses 1-8 The Israelites were convinced that the war against the Canaanites was to be continued; but they were in doubt as to the manner in which it was to be carried on after the death of Joshua. In these respects they inquired of the Lord. God appoints service according to the strength he has given. From those who are most able, most work is expected. Judah was first in dignity, and must be first in duty. Judah's service will not avail unless God give success; but God will not give the success, unless Judah applies to the service. Judah was the most considerable of all the tribes, and Simeon the least; yet Judah begs Simeon's friendship, and prays for aid from him. It becomes Israelites to help one another against Canaanites; and all Christians, even those of different tribes, should strengthen one another. Those who thus help one another in love, have reason to hope that God will graciously help both. Adoni-bezek was taken prisoner. This prince had been a severe tyrant. The Israelites, doubtless under the Divine direction, made him suffer what he had done to others; and his own conscience confessed that he was justly treated as he had treated others. Thus the righteous God sometimes, in his providence, makes the punishment answer the sin.
@Verses 9-20 The Canaanites had iron chariots; but Israel had God on their side, whose chariots are thousands of angels, @psalms 68:17 . Yet they suffered their fears to prevail against their faith. About Caleb we read in @joshua 15:16-19 . The Kenites had settled in the land. Israel let them fix where they pleased, being a quiet, contented people. They that molested none, were molested by none. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
@Verses 21-36
The people of Israel were very careless of their duty and
interest. Owing to slothfulness and cowardice, they would not be
at the pains to complete their conquests. It was also owing to
their covetousness: they were willing to let the Canaanites live
among them, that they might make advantage of them. They had not
the dread and detestation of idolatry they ought to have had.
The same unbelief that kept their fathers forty years out of
Canaan, kept them now out of the full possession of it. Distrust
of the power and promise of God deprived them of advantages, and
brought them into troubles. Thus many a believer who begins well
is hindered. His graces languish, his lusts revive, Satan plies
him with suitable temptations, the world recovers its hold; he
brings guilt into his conscience, anguish into his heart,
discredit on his character, and reproach on the gospel. Though
he may have sharp rebukes, and be so recovered that he does not
perish, yet he will have deeply to lament his folly through his
remaining days; and upon his dying bed to mourn over the
opportunities of glorifying God and serving the church he has
lost. We can have no fellowship with the enemies of God within
us or around us, but to our hurt; therefore our only wisdom is
to maintain unceasing war against them.
The angel of the Lord rebukes the people. (1-5) The wickedness
of the new generation after Joshua. (6-23)
@Verses 1-5
It was the great Angel of the covenant, the Word, the Son
of God, who spake with Divine authority as Jehovah, and now
called them to account for their disobedience. God sets forth
what he had done for Israel, and what he had promised. Those who
throw off communion with God, and have fellowship with the
unfruitful works of darkness, know not what they do now, and
will have nothing to say for themselves in the day of account
shortly. They must expect to suffer for this their folly. Those
deceive themselves who expect advantages from friendship with
God's enemies. God often makes men's sin their punishment; and
thorns and snares are in the way of the froward, who will walk
contrary to God. The people wept, crying out against their own
folly and ingratitude. They trembled at the word, and not
without cause. It is a wonder sinners can ever read the Bible
with dry eyes. Had they kept close to God and their duty, no
voice but that of singing had been heard in their congregation;
but by their sin and folly they made other work for themselves,
and nothing is to be heard but the voice of weeping. The worship
of God, in its own nature, is joy, praise, and thanksgiving; our
sins alone render weeping needful. It is pleasing to see men
weep for their sins; but our tears, prayers, and even amendment,
cannot atone for sin.
@Verses 6-23
We have a general idea of the course of things in Israel,
during the time of the Judges. The nation made themselves as
mean and miserable by forsaking God, as they would have been
great and happy if they had continued faithful to him. Their
punishment answered to the evil they had done. They served the
gods of the nations round about them, even the meanest, and God
made them serve the princes of the nations round about them,
even the meanest. Those who have found God true to his promises,
may be sure that he will be as true to his threatenings. He
might in justice have abandoned them, but he could not for pity
do it. The Lord was with the judges when he raised them up, and
so they became saviours. In the days of the greatest distress of
the church, there shall be some whom God will find or make fit
to help it. The Israelites were not thoroughly reformed; so mad
were they upon their idols, and so obstinately bent to
backslide. Thus those who have forsaken the good ways of God,
which they have once known and professed, commonly grow most
daring and desperate in sin, and have their hearts hardened.
Their punishment was, that the Canaanites were spared, and so
they were beaten with their own rod. Men cherish and indulge
their corrupt appetites and passions; therefore God justly
leaves them to themselves, under the power of their sins, which
will be their ruin. God has told us how deceitful and
desperately wicked our hearts are, but we are not willing to
believe it, until by making bold with temptation we find it true
by sad experience. We need to examine how matters stand with
ourselves, and to pray without ceasing, that we may be rooted
and grounded in love, and that Christ may dwell in our hearts by
faith. Let us declare war against every sin, and follow after
holiness all our days.
The nations left to prove Israel. (1-7) Othniel delivers
Israel. (8-11) Ehud delivers Israel from Eglon. (12-30) Shamgar
delivers and judges Israel. (31)
@Verses 1-7
As the Israelites were a type of the church on earth, they
were not to be idle and slothful. The Lord was pleased to try
them by the remains of the devoted nations they spared.
Temptations and trials detect the wickedness of the hearts of
sinners; and strengthen he graces of believers in their daily
conflict with Satan, sin, and this evil world. They must live in
this world, but they are not of it, and are forbidden to conform
to it. This marks the difference between the followers of Christ
and mere professors. The friendship of the world is more fatal
than its enmity; the latter can only kill the body, but the
former murders many precious souls.
@Verses 8-11
The first judge was Othniel: even in Joshua's time Othniel
began to be famous. Soon after Israel's settlement in Canaan
their purity began to be corrupted, and their peace disturbed.
But affliction makes those cry to God who before would scarcely
speak to him. God returned in mercy to them for their
deliverance. The Spirit of the Lord came upon Othniel. The
Spirit of wisdom and courage to qualify him for the service, and
the Spirit of power to excite him to it. He first judged Israel,
reproved and reformed them, and then went to war. Let sin at
home be conquered, that worst of enemies, then enemies abroad
will be more easily dealt with. Thus let Christ be our Judge and
Lawgiver, then he will save us.
@Verses 12-30
When Israel sins again, God raises up a new oppressor.
The Israelites did ill, and the Moabites did worse; yet because
God punishes the sins of his own people in this world, Israel is
weakened, and Moab strengthened against them. If lesser troubles
do not do the work, God will send greater. When Israel prays
again, God raises up Ehud. As a judge, or minister of Divine
justice, Ehud put to death Eglon, the king of Moab, and thus
executed the judgments of God upon him as an enemy to God and
Israel. But the law of being subject to principalities and
powers in all things lawful, is the rule of our conduct. No such
commissions are now given; to pretend to them is to blaspheme
God. Notice Ehud's address to Eglon. What message from God but a
message of vengeance can a proud rebel expect? Such a message is
contained in the word of God; his ministers are boldly to
declare it, without fearing the frown, or respecting the persons
of sinners. But, blessed be God, they have to deliver a message
of mercy and of free salvation; the message of vengeance belongs
only to those who neglect the offers of grace. The consequence
of this victory was, that the land had rest eighty years. It was
a great while for the land to rest; yet what is that to the
saints' everlasting rest in the heavenly Canaan.
@Verse 31
The side of the country which lay south-west, was infested
by the Philistines. God raised up Shamgar to deliver them;
having neither sword nor spear, he took an ox-goad, the
instrument next at hand. God can make those serviceable to his
glory and to his church's good, whose birth, education, and
employment, are mean and obscure. It is no matter what the
weapon is, if God directs and strengthens the arm. Often he
works by unlikely means, that the excellency of the power may
appear to be of God.
Israel again revolts, and is oppressed by Jabin. (1-3) Deborah
concerts their deliverance with Barak. (4-9) Sisera defeated.
(10-16) Sisera put to death by Jael. (17-24)
1-3. The land had rest for eighty years, which should have
confirmed them in their religion; but it made them secure, and
indulge their lusts. Thus the prosperity of fools destroys them.
Jabin and his general Sisera, mightily oppressed Israel. This
enemy was nearer than any of the former. Israel cried unto the
Lord, when distress drove them to him, and they saw no other way
of relief. Those who slight God in prosperity, will find
themselves under a necessity of seeking him in trouble.
@Verses 4-9
Deborah was a prophetess; one instructed in Divine
knowledge by the inspiration of the Spirit of God. She judged
Israel as God's mouth to them; correcting abuses, and redressing
grievances. By God's direction, she ordered Barak to raise an
army, and engage Jabin's forces. Barak insisted much upon her
presence. Deborah promised to go with him. She would not send
him where she would not go herself. Those who in God's name call
others to their duty, should be ready to assist them in it.
Barak values the satisfaction of his mind, and the good success
of his enterprise, more than mere honour.
10-16. Siser's confidence was chiefly in his chariots. But if
we have ground to hope that God goes before us, we may go on
with courage and cheerfulness. Be not dismayed at the
difficulties thou meetest with in resisting Satan, in serving
God, or suffering for him; for is not the Lord gone before thee?
Follow him then fully. Barak went down, though upon the plain
the iron chariots would have advantage against him: he quitted
the mountain in dependence on the Divine power; for in the Lord
alone is the salvation of his people,
@jeremiah 3:23
. He was not
deceived in his confidence. When God goes before us in our
spiritual conflicts, we must bestir ourselves; and when, by his
grace, he gives us some success against the enemies of our
souls, we must improve it by watchfulness and resolution.
@Verses 17-24
Sisera's chariots had been his pride and his confidence.
Thus are those disappointed who rest on the creature; like a
broken reed, it not only breaks under them, but pierces them
with many sorrows. The idol may quickly become a burden, Isa
46:1; what we were sick for, God can make us sick of. It is
probable that Jael really intended kindness to Sisera; but by a
Divine impulse she was afterwards led to consider him as the
determined enemy of the Lord and of his people, and to destroy
him. All our connexions with God's enemies must be broken off,
if we would have the Lord for our God, and his people for our
people. He that had thought to have destroyed Israel with his
many iron chariots, is himself destroyed with one iron nail.
Thus the weak things of the world confound the mighty. The
Israelites would have prevented much mischief, if they had
sooner destroyed the Canaanites, as God commanded and enabled
them: but better be wise late, and buy wisdom by experience,
than never be wise.
Praise and glory ascribed to God. (1-5) The distress and
deliverance of Israel. (6-11) Some commended, others censured.
(12-23) Sisera's mother disappointed. (24-31)
1-5. No time should be lost in returning thanks to the Lord for
his mercies; for our praises are most acceptable, pleasant, and
profitable, when they flow from a full heart. By this, love and
gratitude would be more excited and more deeply fixed in the
hearts of believers; the events would be more known and longer
remembered. Whatever Deborah, Barak, or the army had done, the
Lord must have all the praise. The will, the power, and the
success were all from Him.
6-11. Deborah describes the distressed state of Israel under
the tyranny of Jabin, that their salvation might appear more
gracious. She shows what brought this misery upon them. It was
their idolatry. They chose new gods, with new names. But under
all these images, Satan was worshipped. Deborah was a mother to
Israel, by diligently promoting the salvation of their souls.
She calls on those who shared the advantages of this great
salvation, to offer up thanks to God for it. Let such as are
restored, not only to their liberty as other Israelites, but to
their rank, speak God's praises. This is the Lord's doing. In
these acts of his, justice was executed on his enemies. In times
of persecution, God's ordinances, the walls of salvation, whence
the waters of life are drawn, are resorted to at the hazard of
the lives of those who attend them. At all times Satan will
endeavour to hinder the believer from drawing near to the throne
of grace. Notice God's kindness to his trembling people. It is
the glory of God to protect those who are most exposed, and to
help the weakest. Let us notice the benefit we have from the
public peace, the inhabitants of villages especially, and give
God the praise.
@Verses 12-23
Deborah called on her own soul to be in earnest. He that
will set the hearts of other men on fire with the love of
Christ, must himself burn with love. Praising God is a work we
should awake to, and awake ourselves unto. She notices who
fought against Israel, who fought for them, and who kept away.
Who fought against them. They were obstinate enemies to God's
people, therefore the more dangerous. Who fought for them. The
several tribes that helped are here spoken of with honour; for
though God is above all to be glorified, those who are employed
must have their due praise, to encourage others. But the whole
creation is at war with those to whom God is an enemy. The river
of Kishon fought against their enemies. At most times it was
shallow, yet now, probably by the great rain that fell, it was
so swelled, and the stream so deep and strong, that those who
attempted to pass, were drowned. Deborah's own soul fought
against them. When the soul is employed in holy exercises, and
heart-work is made of them, through the grace of God, the
strength of our spiritual enemies will be trodden down, and will
fall before us. She observes who kept away, and did not side
with Israel, as might have been expected. Thus many are kept
from doing their duty by the fear of trouble, the love of ease,
and undue affection to their worldly business and advantage.
Narrow, selfish spirits care not what becomes of God's church,
so that they can but get, keep, and save money. All seek their
own,
@philippians 2:21
. A little will serve those for a pretence to
stay at home, who have no mind to engage in needful services,
because there is difficulty and danger in them. But we cannot
keep away from the contest between the Lord and his enemies; and
if we do not actively endeavour to promote his cause in this
wicked world, we shall fall under the curse against the workers
of iniquity. Though He needs no human help, yet he is pleased to
accept the services of those who improve their talents to
advance his cause. He requires every man to do so.
@Verses 24-31
Jael had a special blessing. Those whose lot is cast in
the tent, in a low and narrow sphere, if they serve God
according to the powers he has given them, shall not lose their
reward. The mother of Sisera looked for his return, not in the
least fearing his success. Let us take heed of indulging eager
desires towards any temporal good, particularly toward that
which cherishes vain-glory, for that was what she here doted on.
What a picture does she present of an ungodly and sensual heart!
How shameful and childish these wishes of an aged mother and her
attendants for her son! And thus does God often bring ruin on
his enemies when they are most puffed up. Deborah concludes with
a prayer to God for the destruction of all his foes, and for the
comfort of all his friends. Such shall be the honour, and joy of
all who love God in sincerity, they shall shine for ever as the
sun in the firmament.
Israel oppressed by Midianites. (1-6) Israel rebuked by a
prophet. (7-10) Gideon set to deliver Israel. (11-24) Gideon
destroys Baal's altar. (25-32) Signs given him. (33-40)
@Verses 1-6
Israel's sin was renewed, and Israel's troubles were
repeated. Let all that sin expect to suffer. The Israelites hid
themselves in dens and caves; such was the effect of a guilty
conscience. Sin dispirits men. The invaders left no food for
Israel, except what was taken into the caves. They prepared that
for Baal with which God should have been served, now God justly
sends an enemy to take it away in the season thereof.
@Verses 7-10
They cried to God for a deliverer, and he sent them a
prophet to teach them. When God furnishes a land with faithful
ministers, it is a token that he has mercy in store for it. He
charges them with rebellion against the Lord; he intends to
bring them to repentance. Repentance is real when the sinfulness
of sin, as disobedience to God, is chiefly lamented.
@Verses 11-24
Gideon was a man of a brave, active spirit, yet in
obscurity through the times: he is here stirred up to undertake
something great. It was very sure that the Lord was with him,
when his Angel was with him. Gideon was weak in faith, which
made it hard to reconcile the assurances of the presence of God
with the distress to which Israel was brought. The Angel
answered his objections. He told him to appear and act as
Israel's deliverer, there needed no more. Bishop Hall says,
While God calls Gideon valiant, he makes him so. God delights to
advance the humble. Gideon desires to have his faith confirmed.
Now, under the influences of the Spirit, we are not to expect
signs before our eyes such as Gideon here desired, but must
earnestly pray to God, that if we have found grace in his sight,
he would show us a sign in our heart, by the powerful working of
his Spirit there, The Angel turned the meat into an offering
made by fire; showing that he was not a man who needed meat, but
the Son of God, who was to be served and honoured by sacrifice,
and who in the fulness of time was to make himself a sacrifice.
Hereby a sign was given to Gideon, that he had found grace in
God's sight. Ever since man has by sin exposed himself to God's
wrath and curse, a message from heaven has been a terror to him,
as he scarcely dares to expect good tidings thence. In this
world, it is very awful to have any converse with that world of
spirits to which we are so much strangers. Gideon's courage
failed him. But God spoke peace to him.
@Verses 25-32
See the power of God's grace, that he could raise up a
reformer; and the kindness of his grace, that he would raise up
a deliverer, out of the family of a leader in idolatry. Gideon
must not think it enough not to worship at that altar; he must
throw it down, and offer sacrifice on another. It was needful he
should make peace with God, before he made war on Midian. Till
sin be pardoned through the great Sacrifice, no good is to be
expected. God, who has all hearts in his hands, influenced Joash
to appear for his son against the advocates for Baal, though he
had joined formerly in the worship of Baal. Let us do our duty,
and trust God with our safety. Here is a challenge to Baal, to
do either good or evil; the result convinced his worshippers of
their folly, in praying to one to help them that could not
avenge himself.
@Verses 33-40
These signs are truly miraculous, and very significant.
Gideon and his men were going to fight the Midianites; could God
distinguish between a small fleece of Israel, and the vast floor
of Midian? Gideon is made to know that God could do so. Is
Gideon desirous that the dew of Divine grace might come down
upon himself in particular? He sees the fleece wet with dew to
assure him of it. Does he desire that God will be as the dew to
all Israel? Behold, all the ground is wet. What cause we sinners
of the Gentiles have, to bless the Lord that the dew of heavenly
blessings, once confined to Israel, is now sent to all the
inhabitants of the earth! Yet still the means of grace are in
different measures, according to the purposes of God. In the
same congregation, one man's soul is like Gideon's moistened
fleece, another like the dry ground.
Gideon's army reduced. (1-8) Gideon is encouraged. (9-15) The
defeat of the Midianites. (16-22) The Ephraimites take Oreb and
Zeeb. (23-25)
1-8. God provides that the praise of victory may be wholly to
himself, by appointing only three hundred men to be employed.
Activity and prudence go with dependence upon God for help in
our lawful undertakings. When the Lord sees that men would
overlook him, and through unbelief, would shrink from perilous
services, or that through pride they would vaunt themselves
against him, he will set them aside, and do his work by other
instruments. Pretences will be found by many, for deserting the
cause and escaping the cross. But though a religious society may
thus be made fewer in numbers, yet it will gain as to purity,
and may expect an increased blessing from the Lord. God chooses
to employ such as are not only well affected, but zealously
affected in a good thing. They grudged not at the liberty of the
others who were dismissed. In doing the duties required by God,
we must not regard the forwardness or backwardness of others,
nor what they do, but what God looks for at our hands. He is a
rare person who can endure that others should excel him in gifts
or blessings, or in liberty; so that we may say, it is by the
special grace of God that we regard what God says to us, and not
look to men what they do.
@Verses 9-15
The dream seemed to have little meaning in it; but the
interpretation evidently proved the whole to be from the Lord,
and discovered that the name of Gideon had filled the Midianites
with terror. Gideon took this as a sure pledge of success;
without delay he worshipped and praised God, and returned with
confidence to his three hundred men. Wherever we are, we may
speak to God, and worship him. God must have the praise of that
which encourages our faith. And his providence must be
acknowledged in events, though small and seemingly accidental.
@Verses 16-22
This method of defeating the Midianites may be alluded
to, as exemplifying the destruction of the devil's kingdom in
the world, by the preaching of the everlasting gospel, the
sounding that trumpet, and the holding forth that light out of
earthen vessels, for such are the ministers of the gospel, 2Co
4:6,7. God chose the foolish things of the world to confound
the wise, a barley-cake to overthrow the tents of Midian, that
the excellency of the power might be of God only. The gospel is
a sword, not in the hand, but in the mouth: the sword of the
Lord and of Gideon; of God and Jesus Christ, of Him that sits on
the throne and the Lamb. The wicked are often led to avenge the
cause of God upon each other, under the power of their
delusions, and the fury of their passions. See also how God
often makes the enemies of the church instruments to destroy one
another; it is a pity that the church's friends should ever act
like them.
@Verses 23-25
Two chief commanders of the host of Midian were taken and
slain by the men of Ephraim. It were to be wished that we all
did as these did, and that where help is needed, that it were
willingly and readily performed by another. And that if there
were any excellent and profitable matter begun, we were willing
to have fellow-labourers to the finishing and perfecting the
same, and not, as often, hinder one another.
Gideon pacifies the Ephraimites. (1-3) Succoth and Penuel
refuse to relieve Gideon. (4-12) Succoth and Penuel punished.
(13-17) Gideon avenges his brethren. (18-21) Gideon declines the
government, but given occasion for idolatry. (22-28) Gideon's
death, Israel's ingratitude. (29-35)
@Verses 1-3
Those who will not attempt or venture any thing in the
cause of God, will be the most ready to censure and quarrel with
such as are of a more zealous and enterprising spirit. And those
who are the most backward to difficult services, will be the
most angry not to have the credit of them. Gideon stands here as
a great example of self-denial; and shows us that envy is best
removed by humility. The Ephraimites had given vent to their
passion in very wrong freedom of speech, a certain sign of a
weak cause: reason runs low when chiding flies high.
@Verses 4-12
Gideon's men were faint, yet pursuing; fatigued with what
they had done, yet eager to do more against their enemies. It is
many a time the true Christian's case, fainting, and yet
pursuing. The world knows but little of the persevering and
successful struggle the real believer maintains with his sinful
heart. But he betakes himself to that Divine strength, in the
faith of which he began his conflict, and by the supply of which
alone he can finish it in triumph.
@Verses 13-17
The active servants of the Lord meet with more dangerous
opposition from false professors than from open enemies; but
they must not care for the behaviour of those who are Israelites
in name, but Midianites in heart. They must pursue the enemies
of their souls, and of the cause of God, though they are ready
to faint through inward conflicts and outward hardships. And
they shall be enabled to persevere. The less men help, and the
more they seek to hinder, the more will the Lord assist.
Gideon's warning being slighted, the punishment was just. Many
are taught with the briers and thorns of affliction, who would
not learn otherwise.
@Verses 18-21
The kings of Midian must be reckoned with. As they
confessed themselves guilty of murder, Gideon acted as the
avenger of blood, being the next of kin to the persons slain.
Little did they think to have heard of this so long after; but
murder seldom goes unpunished in this life. Sins long forgotten
by man, must be accounted for to God. What poor consolation in
death from the hope of suffering less pain, and of dying with
less disgrace than some others! yet many are more anxious on
these accounts, than concerning the future judgment, and what
will follow.
@Verses 22-28
Gideon refused the government the people offered him. No
good man can be pleased with any honour done to himself, which
belongs only to God. Gideon thought to keep up the remembrance
of this victory by an ephod, made of the choicest of the spoils.
But probably this ephod had, as usual, a teraphim annexed to it,
and Gideon intended this for an oracle to be consulted. Many are
led into false ways by one false step of a good man. It became a
snare to Gideon himself, and it proved the ruin of the family.
How soon will ornaments which feed the lust of the eye, and form
the pride of life, as well as tend to the indulgences of the
flesh, bring shame on those who are fond of them!
@Verses 29-35
As soon as Gideon was dead, who kept the people to the
worship of the God of Israel, they found themselves under no
restraint; then they went after Baalim, and showed no kindness
to the family of Gideon. No wonder if those who forget their
God, forget their friends. Yet conscious of our own ingratitude
to the Lord, and observing that of mankind in general, we should
learn to be patient under any unkind returns we meet with for
our poor services, and resolve, after the Divine example, not to
be overcome of evil, but to overcome evil with good.
Abimelech murders his brethren, and is made king. (1-6) Jotham
rebukes the Shechemites. (7-21) The Shechemites conspire against
Abimelech. (22-29) Abimelech destroys Shechem. (30-49) Abimelech
slain. (50-57)
@Verses 1-6
The men of Shechem chose Abimelech king. God was not
consulted whether they should have any king, much less who it
should be. If parents could see what their children would do,
and what they are to suffer, their joy in them often would be
turned into sorrow: we may be thankful that we cannot know what
shall happen. Above all, we should fear and watch against sin;
for our evil conduct may produce fatal effects upon our
families, after we are in our graves.
@Verses 7-21
There was no occasion for the trees to choose a king, they
are all the trees of the Lord which he has planted. Nor was
there any occasion for Israel to set a king over them, for the
Lord was their King. Those who bear fruit for the public good,
are justly respected and honoured by all that are wise, more
than those who merely make a figure. All these fruit-trees gave
much the same reason for their refusal to be promoted over the
trees; or, as the margin reads it, to go up and down for the
trees. To rule, involves a man in a great deal both of toil and
care. Those who are preferred to public trust and power, must
forego all private interests and advantages, for the good of
others. And those advanced to honour and dignity, are in great
danger of losing their fruitfulness. For which reason, they that
desire to do good, are afraid of being too great. Jotham
compares Abimelech to the bramble or thistle, a worthless plant,
whose end is to be burned. Such a one was Abimelech.
@Verses 22-29
Abimelech is seated in the throne his father refused. But
how long does this glory last? Stay but three years, and see the
bramble withered and burned. The prosperity of the wicked is
short and fickle. The Shechemites are plagued by no other hand
than Abimelech's. They raised him unjustly to the throne; they
first feel the weight of his sceptre.
@Verses 30-49
Abimelech intended to punish the Schechemites for
slighting him now, but God punished them for their serving him
formerly in the murder of Gideon's sons. When God uses men as
instruments in his hand to do his work, he means one thing, and
they another. That, which they hoped would have been for their
welfare, proved a snare and a trap, as those will certainly
find, who run to idols for shelter; such will prove a refuge of
lies.
@Verses 50-57
The Shechemites were ruined by Abimelech; now he is
reckoned with, who was their leader in villany. Evil pursues
sinners, and sometimes overtakes them, when not only at ease,
but triumphant. Though wickedness may prosper a while, it will
not prosper always. The history of mankind, if truly told, would
greatly resemble that of this chapter. The records of what are
called splendid events present to us such contests for power.
Such scenes, though praised of men, fully explain the Scripture
doctrine of the deceitfulness and desperate wickedness of the
human heart, the force of men's lust, and the effect of Satan's
influence. Lord, thou has given us thy word of truth and
righteousness, O pour upon us thy spirit of purity, peace, and
love, and write thy holy law in our hearts.
Tola and Jair judge Israel. (1-5) The Philistines and
Ammonites oppress Israel. (6-9) Israel's repentance. (10-18)
@Verses 1-5
Quiet and peaceable reigns, though the best to live in,
yield least variety of matter to be spoken of. Such were the
days of Tola and Jair. They were humble, active, and useful men,
rulers appointed of God.
@Verses 6-9
Now the threatening was fulfilled, that the Israelites
should have no power to stand before their enemies, Le
26:17,37. By their evil ways and their evil doings they
procured this to themselves.
@Verses 10-18
God is able to multiply men's punishments according to
the numbers of their sins and idols. But there is hope when
sinners cry to the Lord for help, and lament their ungodliness
as well as their more open transgressions. It is necessary, in
true repentance, that there be a full conviction that those
things cannot help us which we have set in competition with God.
They acknowledged what they deserved, yet prayed to God not to
deal with them according to their deserts. We must submit to
God's justice, with a hope in his mercy. True repentance is not
only for sin, but from sin. As the disobedience and misery of a
child are a grief to a tender father, so the provocations of
God's people are a grief to him. From him mercy never can be
sought in vain. Let then the trembling sinner, and the almost
despairing backslider, cease from debating about God's secret
purposes, or from expecting to find hope from former
experiences. Let them cast themselves on the mercy of God our
Saviour, humble themselves under his hand, seek deliverance from
the powers of darkness, separate themselves from sin, and from
occasions of it, use the means of grace diligently, and wait the
Lord's time, and so they shall certainly rejoice in his mercy.
Jephtah and the Gileadites. (1-11) He attempts to make peace.
(12-28) Jephthah's vow. He vanquishes the Ammonites. (29-40)
@Verses 1-11
Men ought not to be blamed for their parentage, so long as
they by their personal merits roll away any reproach. God had
forgiven Israel, therefore Jephthah will forgive. He speaks not
with confidence of his success, knowing how justly God might
suffer the Ammonites to prevail for the further punishment of
Israel. Nor does he speak with any confidence at all in himself.
If he succeed, it is the Lord delivers them into his hand; he
thereby reminds his countrymen to look up to God as the Giver of
victory. The same question as here, in fact, is put to those who
desire salvation by Christ. If he save you, will ye be willing
that he shall rule you? On no other terms will he save you. If
he make you happy, shall he make you holy? If he be your helper,
shall he be your Head? Jephthah, to obtain a little worldly
honour, was willing to expose his life: shall we be discouraged
in our Christian warfare by the difficulties we may meet with,
when Christ has promised a crown of life to him that overcometh?
@Verses 12-28
One instance of the honour and respect we owe to God, as
our God, is, rightly to employ what he gives us to possess.
Receive it from him, use it for him, and part with it when he
calls for it. The whole of this message shows that Jephthah was
well acquainted with the books of Moses. His argument was clear,
and his demand reasonable. Those who possess the most courageous
faith, will be the most disposed for peace, and the readiest to
make advances to obtain; but rapacity and ambition often cloak
their designs under a plea of equity, and render peaceful
endeavours of no avail.
@Verses 29-40
Several important lessons are to be learned from
Jephthah's vow. 1. There may be remainders of distrust and
doubting, even in the hearts of true and great believers. 2. Our
vows to God should not be as a purchase of the favour we desire,
but to express gratitude to him. 3. We need to be very
well-advised in making vows, lest we entangle ourselves. 4. What
we have solemnly vowed to God, we must perform, if it be
possible and lawful, though it be difficult and grievous to us.
5. It well becomes children, obediently and cheerfully to submit
to their parents in the Lord. It is hard to say what Jephthah
did in performance of his vow; but it is thought that he did not
offer his daughter as a burnt-offering. Such a sacrifice would
have been an abomination to the Lord; it is supposed she was
obliged to remain unmarried, and apart from her family.
Concerning this and some other such passages in the sacred
history, about which learned men are divided and in doubt, we
need not perplex ourselves; what is necessary to our salvation,
thanks be to God, is plain enough. If the reader recollects the
promise of Christ concerning the teaching of the Holy Spirit,
and places himself under this heavenly Teacher, the Holy Ghost
will guide to all truth in every passage, so far as it is
needful to be understood.
Ephraimites quarrel with Jephthah. (1-7) Ibzan, Elon, and
Abdon judge Israel. (8-15)
@Verses 1-7
The Ephraimites had the same quarrel with Jephthah as with
Gideon. Pride was at the bottom of the quarrel; only by that
comes contention. It is ill to fasten names of reproach upon
persons or countries, as is common, especially upon those under
outward disadvantages. It often occasions quarrels that prove of
ill consequence, as it did here. No contentions are so bitter as
those between brethren or rivals for honour. What need we have
to watch and pray against evil tempers! May the Lord incline all
his people to follow after things which make for peace!
@Verses 8-15
We have here a short account of three more of the judges
of Israel. The happiest life of individuals, and the happiest
state of society, is that which affords the fewest remarkable
events. To live in credit and quiet, to be peacefully useful to
those around us, to possess a clear conscience; but, above all,
and without which nothing can avail, to enjoy communion with God
our Saviour while we live, and to die at peace with God and man,
form the substance of all that a wise man can desire.
The Philistines, Samson announced. (1-7) The angel appears to
Manoah. (8-14) Manoah's sacrifice. (15-23) Birth of Samson.
(24,25)
@Verses 1-7
Israel did evil: then God delivered them again into the
hands of the Philistines. When Israel was in this distress,
Samson was born. His parents had been long childless. Many
eminent persons were born of such mothers. Mercies long waited
for, often prove signal mercies; and by them others may be
encouraged to continue their hope in God's mercy. The angel
notices her affliction. God often sends comfort to his people
very seasonably, when they feel their troubles most. This
deliverer of Israel must be devoted to God. Manoah's wife was
satisfied that the messenger was of God. She gave her husband a
particular account, both of the promise and of the precept.
Husbands and wives should tell each other their experiences of
communion with God, and their improvements in acquaintance with
him, that they may help each other in the way that is holy.
@Verses 8-14
Blessed are those who have not seen, and yet, as Manoah,
have believed. Good men are more careful and desirous to know
the duty to be done by them, than to know the events concerning
them: duty is ours, events are God's. God will guide those by
his counsel, who desire to know their duty, and apply to him to
teach them. Pious parents, especially, will beg Divine
assistance. The angel repeats the directions he had before
given. There is need of much care for the right ordering both of
ourselves and our children, that we may be duly separate from
the world, and living sacrifices to the Lord.
@Verses 15-23
What Manoah asked for instruction in his duty, he was
readily told; but what he asked to gratify his curiosity, was
denied. God has in his word given full directions concerning our
duty, but never designed to answer other questionings. There are
secret things which belong not to us, of which we must be quite
contented to be ignorant, while in this world. The name of our
Lord is wonderful and secret; but by his wonderful works he
makes himself known as far as is needful for us. Prayer is the
ascent of the soul to God. But without Christ in the heart by
faith, our services are offensive smoke; in him, acceptable
flame. We may apply this to Christ's sacrifice of himself for
us; he ascended in the flame of his own offering, for by his own
blood he entered in once into the holy place,
@hebrews 9:12
. In
Manoah's reflections there is great fear; We shall surely die.
In his wife's reflection there is great faith. As a help meet
for him, she encouraged him. Let believers who have had
communion with God in the word and prayer, to whom he has
graciously manifested himself, and who have had reason to think
God has accepted their works, take encouragement from thence in
a cloudy and dark day. God would not have done what he has done
for my soul, if he had designed to forsake me, and leave me to
perish at last; for his work is perfect. Learn to reason as
Manoah's wife; If God designed me to perish under his wrath, he
would not give me tokens of his favour.
@Verses 24-25
The Spirit of the Lord began to move Samson when a youth.
This was evidence that the Lord blessed him. Where God gives his
blessing, he gives his Spirit to qualify for the blessing. Those
are blessed indeed in whom the Spirit of grace begins to work in
the days of their childhood. Samson drank no wine or strong
drink, yet excelled in strength and courage, for he had the
Spirit of God moving him; therefore be not drunk with wine, but
be filled with the Spirit.
Samson desires a wife of the Philistines. (1-4) Samson kills a
lion. (5-9) Samson's riddle. (10-20)
@Verses 1-4
As far as Samson's marriage was a common case, it was weak
and foolish of him to set his affections upon a daughter of the
Philistines. Shall one, not only an Israelite, but a Nazarite,
devoted to the Lord, covet to become one with a worshipper of
Dagon? It does not appear that he had any reason to think her
wise or virtuous, or any way likely to be a help meet for him;
but he saw something in her agreeable to his fancy. He that, in
the choice of a wife, is only guided by his eye, and governed by
his fancy, must afterwards thank himself if he find a Philistine
in his arms. Yet it was well done not to proceed till Samson had
made his parents acquainted with the matter. Children ought not
to marry, nor to move towards it, without the advice and consent
of their parents. Samson's parents did well to dissuade him from
yoking himself unequally with unbelievers. It seems that it
pleased God to leave Samson to follow his own inclinations,
intending to bring out good from his conduct; and his parents
consented, because he was bent upon it. However, his example is
not recorded for us to do likewise.
@Verses 5-9
By enabling him to kill a lion, God let Samson know what he
could do in the strength of the Spirit of the Lord, that he
might never be afraid to look the greatest difficulties in the
face. He was alone in the vineyards, whither he had rambled.
Young people consider not how they exposed themselves to the
roaring lion that seeks to devour, when they wander from their
prudent, pious parents. Nor do men consider what lions lurk in
the vineyards, the vineyards of red wines. Our Lord Jesus having
conquered Satan, that roaring lion, believers, like Samson, find
honey in the carcass abundant strength and satisfaction, enough
for themselves, and for all their friends.
@Verses 10-20
Samson's riddle literally meant no more than that he had
got honey, for food and for pleasure, from the lion, which in
its strength and fury was ready to devour him. But the victory
of Christ over Satan, by means of his humiliation, agonies, and
death, and the exaltation that followed to him, with the glory
thence to the Father, and spiritual advantages to his people,
seem directly alluded to. And even death, that devouring
monster, being robbed of his sting, and stripped of his horror,
forwards the soul to the realms of bliss. In these and other
senses, out of the eater comes forth meat, and out of the
strong, sweetness. Samson's companions obliged his wife to get
the explanation from him. A worldly wife, or a worldly friend,
is to a godly man as an enemy in the camp, who will watch every
opportunity to betray him. No union can be comfortable or
lasting, where secrets cannot be intrusted, without danger of
being divulged. Satan, in his temptations, could not do us the
mischief he does, if he did not plough with the heifer of our
corrupt nature. His chief advantage against us arises from his
correspondence with our deceitful hearts and inbred lusts. This
proved an occasion of weaning Samson from his new relations. It
were well for us, if the unkindness we meet with from the world,
and our disappointments in it, obliged us by faith and prayer to
return to our heavenly Father's house, and to rest there. See
how little confidence is to be put in man. Whatever pretence of
friendship may be made, a real Philistine will soon be weary of
a true Israelite.
Samson is denied his wife, He smites the Philistines. (1-8)
Samson kills a thousand of the Philistines with a jaw-bone.
(9-17) His distress from thirst. (18-20)
@Verses 1-8
When there are differences between relations, let those be
reckoned the wisest and best, who are most forward to forgive or
forget, and most willing to stoop and yield for the sake of
peace. In the means which Samson employed, we must look at the
power of God supplying them, and making them successful, to
mortify the pride and punish the wickedness of the Philistines.
The Philistines threatened Samson's wife that they would burn
her and her father's house. She, to save herself and oblige her
countrymen, betrayed her husband; and the very thing that she
feared, and by sin sought to avoid, came upon her! She, and her
father's house, were burnt with fire, and by her countrymen,
whom she thought to oblige by the wrong she did to her husband.
The mischief we seek to escape by any unlawful practices, we
often pull down upon our own heads.
@Verses 9-17
Sin dispirits men, it hides from their eyes the things
that belong to their peace. The Israelites blamed Samson for
what he had done against the Philistines, as if he had done them
a great injury. Thus our Lord Jesus did many good works, and for
those the Jews were ready to stone him. When the Spirit of the
Lord came upon Samson, his cords were loosed: where the Spirit
of the Lord is, there is liberty, and those are free indeed who
are thus set free. Thus Christ triumphed over the powers of
darkness that shouted against him, as if they had him in their
power. Samson made great destruction among the Philistines. To
take the bone of an ass for this, was to do wonders by the
foolish things of the world, that the excellency of the power
might be of God, not of man. This victory was not in the weapon,
was not in the arm; but it was in the Spirit of God, which moved
the weapon by the arm. We can do all things through Him that
strengtheneth us. Seest thou a poor Christian, who is enabled to
overcome a temptation by weak, feeble counsel, there is the
Philistine vanquished by a sorry jaw-bone.
@Verses 18-20
So little notice did the men of Judah take of their
deliverer, that he was ready to perish for want of a draught of
water. Thus are the greatest slights often put upon those who do
the greatest services. Samson prayed to God in this distress.
Those that forget to attend God their praises, may be compelled
to attend him with their prayers. Past experiences of God's
power and goodness, are excellent pleas in prayer for further
mercy. He pleads his being exposed to God's enemies; our best
pleas are taken from God's glory. The Lord sent him seasonable
relief. The place of this action was, from the jaw-bone, called
Lehi. And in the place thus called, God caused a fountain
suddenly and seasonably to open, close by Samson. We should be
more thankful for the mercy of water, did we consider how ill we
can spare it. Israel submitted to him whom they had betrayed.
God was with him; henceforward they were directed by him as
their judge.
Samson's escape from Gaza. (1-3) Samson enticed to declare his
strength lay. (4-17) The Philistines take Samson, and put out
his eyes. (18-21) Samson's strength is renewed. (22-24) He
destroys many of the Philistines. (25-31)
@Verses 1-3
Hitherto Samson's character has appeared glorious, though
uncommon. In this chapter we find him behaving in so wicked a
manner, that many question whether or not he were a godly man.
But the apostle has determined this,
@hebrews 11:32
. By adverting
to the doctrines and examples of Scripture, the artifices of
Satan, the deceitfulness of the human heart, and the methods in
which the Lord frequently deals with his people, we may learn
useful lessons from this history, at which some needlessly
stumble, while others cavil and object. The peculiar time in
which Samson lived may account for many things, which, if done
in our time, and without the special appointment of Heaven,
would be highly criminal. And there might have been in him many
exercises of piety, which, if recorded, would have reflected a
different light upon his character. Observe Samson's danger. Oh
that all who indulge their sensual appetites in drunkenness, or
any fleshly lusts, would see themselves thus surrounded,
way-laid, and marked for ruin by their spiritual enemies! The
faster they sleep, the more secure they feel, the greater their
danger. We hope it was with a pious resolution not to return to
his sin, that he rose under a fear of the danger he was in. Can
I be safe under this guilt? It was bad that he lay down without
such checks; but it would have been worse, if he had laid still
under them.
@Verses 4-17
Samson had been more than once brought into mischief and
danger by the love of women, yet he would not take warning, but
is again taken in the same snare, and this third time is fatal.
Licentiousness is one of the things that take away the heart.
This is a deep pit into which many have fallen; but from which
few have escaped, and those by a miracle of mercy, with the loss
of reputation and usefulness, of almost all, except their souls.
The anguish of the suffering is ten thousand times greater than
all the pleasures of the sin.
@Verses 18-21
See the fatal effects of false security. Satan ruins men
by flattering them into a good opinion of their own safety, and
so bringing them to mind nothing, and fear nothing; and then he
robs them of their strength and honour, and leads them captive
at his will. When we sleep our spiritual enemies do not.
Samson's eyes were the inlets of his sin, (ver.
@1
,) and now
his punishment began there. Now the Philistines blinded him, he
had time to remember how his own lust had before blinded him.
The best way to preserve the eyes, is, to turn them away from
beholding vanity. Take warning by his fall, carefully to watch
against all fleshly lusts; for all our glory is gone, and our
defence departed from us, when our separation to God, as
spiritual Nazarites, is profaned.
@Verses 22-24
Samson's afflictions were the means of bringing him to
deep repentance. By the loss of his bodily sight the eyes of his
understanding were opened; and by depriving him of bodily
strength, the Lord was pleased to renew his spiritual strength.
The Lord permits some few to wander wide and sink deep, yet he
recovers them at last, and marking his displeasure at sin in
their severe temporal sufferings, preserves them from sinking
into the pit of destruction. Hypocrites may abuse these
examples, and infidels mock at them, but true Christians will
thereby be rendered more humble, watchful, and circumspect; more
simple in their dependence on the Lord, more fervent in prayer
to be kept from falling, and in praise for being preserved; and,
if they fall, they will be kept from sinking into despair.
@Verses 25-31
Nothing fills up the sins of any person or people faster
than mocking and misusing the servants of God, even thought it
is by their own folly that they are brought low. God put it into
Samson's heart, as a public person, thus to avenge on them God's
quarrel, Israel's, and his own. That strength which he had lost
by sin, he recovers by prayer. That it was not from passion or
personal revenge, but from holy zeal for the glory of God and
Israel, appears from God's accepting and answering the prayer.
The house was pulled down, not by the natural strength of
Samson, but by the almighty power of God. In his case it was
right he should avenge the cause of God and Israel. Nor is he to
be accused of self-murder. He sought not his own death, but
Israel's deliverance, and the destruction of their enemies. Thus
Samson died in bonds, and among the Philistines, as an awful
rebuke for his sins; but he died repentant. The effects of his
death typified those of the death of Christ, who, of his own
will, laid down his life among transgressors, and thus
overturned the foundation of Satan's kingdom, and provided for
the deliverance of his people. Great as was the sin of Samson,
and justly as he deserved the judgments he brought upon himself,
he found mercy of the Lord at last; and every penitent shall
obtain mercy, who flees for refuge to that Saviour whose blood
cleanses from all sin. But here is nothing to encourage any to
indulge sin, from a hope they shall at last repent and be saved.
The beginning of idolatry in Israel, Micah and his mother.
(1-6) Micah hires a Levite to be his priest. (7-13)
@Verses 1-6
What is related in this, and the rest of the chapters to
the end of this book, was done soon after the death of Joshua:
see chap.
@judges 20:28
. That it might appear how happy the nation
was under the Judges, here is showed how unhappy they were when
there was no Judge. The love of money made Micah so undutiful to
his mother as to rob her, and made her so unkind to her son, as
to curse him. Outward losses drive good people to their prayers,
but bad people to their curses. This woman's silver was her god,
before it was made into a graven or a molten image. Micah and
his mother agreed to turn their money into a god, and set up
idol worship in their family. See the cause of this corruption.
Every man did that which was right in his own eyes, and then
they soon did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord.
@Verses 7-13
Micah thought it was a sign of God's favour to him and his
images, that a Levite should come to his door. Thus those who
please themselves with their own delusions, if Providence
unexpectedly bring any thing to their hands that further them in
their evil way, are apt from thence to think that God is pleased
with them.
The Danites seek to enlarge their inheritance, and rob Micah.
- The Danites determined to take Micah's gods with them. Oh the
folly of these Danites! How could they imagine those gods should
protect them, that could not keep themselves from being stolen!
To take them for their own use, was a double crime; it showed
they neither feared God, nor regarded man, but were lost both to
godliness and honesty. What a folly was it for Micah to call
those his gods, which he had made, when He only is to be
worshipped by us as God, that made us! That is put in God's
place, which we are concerned about, as if our all were bound up
in it. If people will walk in the name of their false gods, much
more should we love and serve the true God!
The wickedness of the men of Gibeah.
- The three remaining chapters of this book contain a very sad
history of the wickedness of the men of Gibeah, in Benjamin. The
righteous Lord permits sinners to execute just vengeance on one
another, and if the scene here described is horrible, what will
the discoveries of the day of judgment be! Let each of us
consider how to escape from the wrath to come, how to mortify
the sins of our own hearts, to resist Satan's temptations, and
to avoid the pollutions there are in the world.
The tribe of Benjamin nearly extirpated.
- The Israelites' abhorrence of the crime committed at Gibeah,
and their resolution to punish the criminals, were right; but
they formed their resolves with too much haste and
self-confidence. The eternal ruin of souls will be worse, and
more fearful, than these desolations of a tribe.
The Israelites lament for the Benjamites.
- Israel lamented for the Benjamites, and were perplexed by the
oath they had taken, not to give their daughters to them in
marriage. Men are more zealous to support their own authority
than that of God. They would have acted better if they had
repented of their rash oaths, brought sin-offerings, and sought
forgiveness in the appointed way, rather than attempt to avoid
the guilt of perjury by actions quite as wrong. That men can
advise others to acts of treachery or violence, out of a sense
of duty, forms a strong proof of the blindness of the human mind
when left to itself, and of the fatal effects of a conscience
under ignorance and error.
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
Chapter 17
Chapter 18
Chapter 19
Chapter 20
Chapter 21
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