“And the children of Benjamin did not drive out the Jebusites that inhabited Jerusalem; but the Jebusites dwell with the children of Benjamin in Jerusalem unto this day.”
This verse is part of the historical account found in the book of Judges:which describes the period of time after the Israelites entered the Promised Land but before the establishment of the monarchy in Israel. During this period, the Israelites were commanded by God to conquer the land and drive out the inhabitants.
In Judges 1:the various tribes of Israel are detailed in their attempts to possess their allotted territories. In this particular verse, it is mentioned that the children of Benjamin failed to drive out the Jebusites from Jerusalem. The Jebusites were one of the indigenous peoples who inhabited the land of Canaan before the Israelites arrived.
The failure of the tribe of Benjamin to fully conquer Jerusalem:is significant for several reasons. First, it indicates a lack of obedience to God’s command. The Lord had instructed the Israelites to completely remove the Canaanite inhabitants from the land to prevent them from influencing the Israelites with their idolatry and wicked practices (Deuteronomy 7:1-5:). By allowing the Jebusites to dwell among them, the Benjamites disregarded God’s command.
Second, this failure foreshadows the challenges that would later arise due to the presence of the Jebusites in Jerusalem. The Jebusites held a strategic position because Jerusalem was a fortified city with natural defenses. Their continued presence would pose a threat to the security and spiritual well-being of the Israelites. In fact, it was not until the time of King David:many years later, that Jerusalem would be fully conquered and established as the capital of Israel (2 Samuel 5:6-10:).
This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of incomplete obedience to God’s commands. The failure to completely follow God’s instructions resulted in ongoing difficulties and challenges for the Israelites. It highlights the importance of wholehearted obedience and fidelity to God’s Word.
As we reflect on this verse, we can draw lessons for our own lives. It reminds us of the need to be vigilant in our obedience to God’s commands, not allowing any remnants of sin or disobedience to persist in our lives. It also emphasizes the importance of addressing and removing any areas of compromise or spiritual compromise that may hinder our relationship with God.
Ultimately, Judges 1:21:serves as a cautionary reminder that partial obedience is not true obedience. It encourages us to seek God’s guidance and strength to fully and faithfully follow His commands in every aspect of our lives.
