Judges 9:26-29 – A Conspiracy
The LORD causes the division between Abimelech and the leaders of Shechem to grow as another man related to the men of Shechem, Gaal the son of Ebed, moves into the city. Rejoicing at his arrival, the Shechemites hold a festival, eating and drinking in the house of their god (that is, the temple of Baal-berith). At this celebration, they speak hatefully of Abimelech. Much as Abimelech had asked the men of Shechem why the sons of Jerubaal (Gideon) should rule over them when one of their own, also a son of Gideon, could be their ruler, Gaal asks “Who is Abimelech and who are we of Shechem that we should serve him?” As the people are gathered in the house of Baal, Gaal makes a point of asking of Abimelech, “Is he not the son of Jerubaal?” In other words, he asks, “Is not this the son of the man called ‘Let Baal contend’ because he destroyed the altar of Baal whom we worship?” Gaal indicates it would be better to serve the original heathen inhabitants of the city who had been destroyed by the sons of Jacob (Genesis 34) than to serve Abimelech. He says that if the people of Shechem will make him their leader, he will challenge Abimelech to battle and overthrow him.
Thus, the LORD escalates the tension between Abimelech and the leaders of Shechem, bringing the curse of Jotham closer and closer to fulfillment.
Questions
- Why does Gaal suggest Abimelech should not be ruler? Why is he careful to remind the people that Abimelech is the son of Jerubaal?
- What does Gaal promise he will do if the Shechemites make him their leader?
- What is God doing through these events?
Prayer Points
- Pray for the preaching and hearing of God’s Word tomorrow.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters