Judges 6:20 is a pivotal moment in the story of Gideon, and its meaning is best understood within the larger context of the chapter. Here's a breakdown:
Context: Gideon is a fearful farmer who's been threshing wheat in secret to hide it from the Midianites who are oppressing Israel. An angel of the Lord appears to him and commissions him to deliver Israel from the Midianites. Gideon is understandably skeptical and asks for a sign to confirm that this is truly God speaking to him.
The Angel's Instruction: The angel tells Gideon to take the offering of meat (likely a young goat) and unleavened cakes (bread made without yeast) and place them on a specific rock. He is also instructed to pour out the broth (the liquid from cooking the meat).
Significance of the Offering:
A Test of Faith: The angel is testing Gideon's obedience and faith. Would he trust the angel's instructions, even if they seemed unusual or wasteful? Gideon's willingness to follow the instructions demonstrates his initial faith.
Unusual Sacrifice: It is unusual to place a meal offering on a rock and pour out broth. It goes against conventional sacrifice and creates doubt about the origin of the instruction (Divine vs. something else).
Preparation for the Miracle: This action prepares the way for the miraculous event that follows in verse 21.
Gideon's Obedience: The key phrase is "He did so." Gideon, despite his doubts and fears, obeys the angel's commands without question. This obedience, even in the face of uncertainty, is what allows God to work through him.
In essence, this verse highlights the following:
God's method of working: God often uses unconventional methods to accomplish His purposes.
The importance of obedience: Gideon's willingness to obey, even when he doesn't fully understand, is crucial.
God's validation: This action sets the stage for a miraculous sign that confirms God's presence and Gideon's divine commission.
The events in this verse demonstrate God's willingness to meet Gideon where he is, test his faith, and empower him to do what God has called him to do. Gideon's obedience is a key step in his transformation from a fearful farmer into a courageous leader.
Judges 6:20 is a pivotal moment in the story of Gideon, and its meaning is best understood within the larger context of the chapter. Here's a breakdown:
Context: Gideon is a fearful farmer who's been threshing wheat in secret to hide it from the Midianites who are oppressing Israel. An angel of the Lord appears to him and commissions him to deliver Israel from the Midianites. Gideon is understandably skeptical and asks for a sign to confirm that this is truly God speaking to him.
The Angel's Instruction: The angel tells Gideon to take the offering of meat (likely a young goat) and unleavened cakes (bread made without yeast) and place them on a specific rock. He is also instructed to pour out the broth (the liquid from cooking the meat).
Significance of the Offering:
A Test of Faith: The angel is testing Gideon's obedience and faith. Would he trust the angel's instructions, even if they seemed unusual or wasteful? Gideon's willingness to follow the instructions demonstrates his initial faith.
Unusual Sacrifice: It is unusual to place a meal offering on a rock and pour out broth. It goes against conventional sacrifice and creates doubt about the origin of the instruction (Divine vs. something else).
Preparation for the Miracle: This action prepares the way for the miraculous event that follows in verse 21.
Gideon's Obedience: The key phrase is "He did so." Gideon, despite his doubts and fears, obeys the angel's commands without question. This obedience, even in the face of uncertainty, is what allows God to work through him.
In essence, this verse highlights the following:
God's method of working: God often uses unconventional methods to accomplish His purposes.
The importance of obedience: Gideon's willingness to obey, even when he doesn't fully understand, is crucial.
God's validation: This action sets the stage for a miraculous sign that confirms God's presence and Gideon's divine commission.
The events in this verse demonstrate God's willingness to meet Gideon where he is, test his faith, and empower him to do what God has called him to do. Gideon's obedience is a key step in his transformation from a fearful farmer into a courageous leader.