“So the children of Israel cried unto the LORD, and the LORD raised them up a deliverer, Ehud the son of Gera, a Benjamite, a man lefthanded: and by him the children of Israel sent a present unto Eglon the king of Moab.”
Context and Background:The book of Judges is set in the time after the Israelites had settled in the Promised Land. It describes a period of Israel’s history when they were ruled by various judges whom God raised up to deliver them from their oppressors. These judges served as both military leaders and spiritual deliverers.
Historical Setting:Judges 3:15 takes place during a time when the Israelites had fallen into idolatry and disobedience to God, leading to their oppression by foreign nations. In this instance, the people of Israel were oppressed by Eglon, the king of Moab, for eighteen years.
Israel’s Cry for Deliverance:The verse begins by stating that the children of Israel cried out to the LORD. The Israelites recognized their need for deliverance and turned to God in prayer. Their cry for help is significant because it demonstrates their acknowledgment of their dependence on God and their desire for Him to intervene in their situation.
God Raises Up a Deliverer:In response to the Israelites’ cry, the Lord raised up Ehud as a deliverer. Ehud, the son of Gera, belonged to the tribe of Benjamin. Interestingly, the verse mentions that Ehud was a man who was left-handed. This detail becomes significant in the subsequent events of the story.
Ehud’s Mission:The verse mentions that the children of Israel sent a present or tribute to Eglon, the king of Moab, through Ehud. This was a common practice in ancient times, where weaker nations would pay tribute to more powerful rulers to maintain peace or avoid further oppression. However, this tribute was also a cover for Ehud’s true mission, which was to assassinate King Eglon.
Spiritual Lessons:
- Dependence on God:The Israelites’ cry for deliverance highlights the importance of relying on God in times of trouble. It is a reminder that when we turn to God and seek His help, He is faithful to hear our prayers and intervene on our behalf.
- God’s Faithfulness:Despite the Israelites’ disobedience, God remained faithful to His covenant with them. He raised up Ehud to deliver them from their oppressor, demonstrating His mercy and grace.
- Unconventional Means:Ehud being left-handed was an advantage in his mission to assassinate the king, as most warriors were trained to expect an attack from a right-handed person. This emphasizes that God can use unconventional means and individuals to accomplish His purposes.
In summary, Judges 3:15 showcases the Israelites’ cry for deliverance, God’s response in raising up Ehud as a deliverer, and the unfolding of Ehud’s mission to free the Israelites from Moabite oppression. This passage encourages us to depend on God, trust in His faithfulness, and be open to His guidance, even through unconventional means.
