Sermon on Gideon: Lessons from Journey of Faith

The Midianite Oppression. Judges 6:1-10

Caused by Israel’s sin. 6:1
Magnitude of destruction. 6:1-6; 7:12
God’s prophet – People wouldn’t listen. 6:7-10

Gideon’s background. Judges 6:11, 15

A son of Joash of the family of Abiezer, a Manassite.
Lived in the village of Ophrah.
A farmer (6:11) whom God calls a “mighty man of valor” 6:12

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Gideon’s call. Judges 6

Gideon visited by an angel. 6:11
If the Lord is with us, why then why has all this happened to us? 6:13
God promised to be with Gideon and by him save Israel from the Midianites. 6:14

Gideon’s humility. 6:15

Gideon asked for a sign and built an altar. 6:17-24
Gideon destroyed the altar of Baal & Asherah and is called “Jerubbaal” 6:25-35

Gideon's three hundred men

The people with you are too many. Why? (see 7:2)
Say to ISRAEL, “whoever is fearful and trembling, let him return home and hurry away from Mount Gilead.”
22,000 of the people returned, and 10,000 remained. (7:3)
300 men put their hands to their mouth
Apparently they were scooping water to their FACES as a dog scoops water with its tongue.
Some have suggested that “lapping” the water in this manner indicated that these soldiers were more alert and ready for battle.
Gideon’s ARMY is now ridiculously small
Gideon would now be outnumbered 450 to 1

“With the 300 men who lapped I will save you and give the Midianites into your hand, and let all the others go every man to his home.” Judges 7:7

I. The Importance of Availability: Judges 6:11

Gideon's story begins with a simple yet profound lesson—the importance of availability. In Judges 6:11, we find Gideon available, tending to his tasks. How does our availability to God position us for His divine calling? Let us explore the transformative power of making ourselves available for God's purposes.

II. God Chooses the Improbable: Judges 6:15

God's ways often defy human logic, and Gideon's story exemplifies this truth. In Judges 6:15, we witness God choosing the improbable, the least likely candidate. How does Gideon's unlikely selection encourage us to trust in God's sovereign choices, even when we may feel inadequate or unqualified?

III. The Necessity of Divine Conviction: Judges 6:16

Divine conviction becomes a pivotal point in Gideon's journey. In Judges 6:16, God assures Gideon of His presence. How does divine conviction strengthen our resolve and empower us to face daunting challenges? Let us reflect on the assurance that God's presence brings to our lives.

IV. God Values Faith, Not Appearance: Judges 6:22-23

In Judges 6:22-23, Gideon encounters the Angel of the Lord and realizes that God values faith, not appearance. How does this truth challenge our perceptions of success and influence? Let us consider the weight of faith in God's eyes, recognizing that our trust in Him is more significant than outward appearances.

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V. The Need for Trial and Confirmation: Judges 6:36-40

Gideon seeks confirmation through a fleece, revealing the human need for reassurance. In Judges 6:36-40, we see the importance of trial and confirmation in our faith journeys. How do these moments of testing refine our trust in God and deepen our dependence on His guidance?

VI. The Courage to Face Fear and Doubt: Judges 7:10-11

As Gideon faces the impending battle, he must confront fear and doubt. Judges 7:10-11 shows us how God addresses Gideon's apprehensions. How can we find the courage to face our own fears and doubts, trusting that God's strength is made perfect in our weakness?

VII. The Importance of Obeying Divine Instructions: Judges 7:16-18

In Judges 7:16-18, Gideon receives specific instructions from God on how to approach the battle. How does Gideon's obedience to divine instructions illustrate the importance of aligning our actions with God's guidance? Let us explore the transformative power of obedience in our pursuit of God's will.

VIII. The Experience of Leadership with Humility: Judges 7:18-21

Leadership, as exemplified by Gideon, is marked by humility. In Judges 7:18-21, we witness Gideon leading with a heart of humility. How does humility shape our interactions with others and our service in God's kingdom? Let us learn from Gideon's example as we navigate our roles in leadership.

IX. Victory is Always the Lord's: Judges 7:22

In the culmination of the battle, Judges 7:22 reminds us that victory is always the Lord's. How does recognizing God as the source of victory shift our perspective on success and triumph in our lives? Let us humbly acknowledge that all glory belongs to our mighty God.

X. God's Recognition in Victory: Judges 7:23-24

In the aftermath of victory, Gideon ensures that God receives the recognition and glory. Judges 7:23-24 teaches us the importance of acknowledging God's role in our triumphs. How can we cultivate a heart of gratitude and recognition, attributing every victory to the sovereign hand of God?

Sermon on Gideon: Lessons from Journey of Faith

Conclusion:

As we conclude our journey through the lessons from Gideon, may our hearts be stirred by the faith, humility, and trust displayed by this biblical hero. Let us apply these lessons to our own lives, making ourselves available, trusting in divine conviction, and leading with humility. As we face battles and celebrate victories, may we always remember that the ultimate triumph belongs to the Lord.

Sermon on Gideon: Lessons from Journey of Faith