“And his concubine that was in Shechem, she also bare him a son, whose name he called Abimelech.”
Context:Judges 8:31 is part of the narrative in the book of Judges that describes the events that took place after the victory of Gideon, also known as Jerubbaal, over the Midianites. Gideon was a judge and leader chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from oppression.
The mention of the concubine:This verse introduces the concubine of Gideon, who was in Shechem. In biblical times, a concubine was a secondary wife or a female partner who had a lower status than a wife. It is important to note that having concubines was a common practice during that time, but it was not in line with God’s original design for marriage (Genesis 2:24). The mention of the concubine serves to highlight the domestic life of Gideon and the resulting circumstances.
The birth of Abimelech:The verse states that the concubine bore a son to Gideon, and he named him Abimelech. Abimelech means “my father is king” or “father of a king.” This name choice indicates Gideon’s aspirations for his son to be a ruler or a king. It is interesting to note that Gideon’s son, Abimelech, later becomes a central figure in the following chapters of Judges, which details a tragic story of power struggles, violence, and wickedness.
Consequences of departing from God’s design:The mention of the concubine and Gideon’s decision to have a child with her highlights the departure from God’s original plan for marriage. It serves as a reminder that when we deviate from God’s design and principles, it can lead to negative consequences in our lives and relationships.
The impact of parental influence:Gideon’s choice to name his son Abimelech and his desire for him to become a ruler reflects the influence parents have on their children. It serves as a reminder that our actions, aspirations, and words as parents can significantly shape the lives and destinies of our children. It is crucial for parents to seek God’s wisdom and guidance in raising their children and to instill values that align with His Word.
The importance of seeking God’s will:Gideon’s actions in having a concubine and the subsequent events involving his son Abimelech demonstrate the consequences of acting without seeking God’s will and guidance. As believers, it is essential for us to seek God’s will in every aspect of our lives, making decisions that align with His Word and trusting in His wisdom rather than relying on our own understanding.
Overall, Judges 8:31 provides insights into the choices made by Gideon and their consequences. It serves as a reminder for us to align our lives with God’s design, recognize the influence of our actions on future generations, and seek God’s will in all that we do.
