“And the tribes of Israel sent men through all the tribe of Benjamin, saying, What wickedness is this that is done among you?”
Context:The book of Judges narrates the period of Israel’s history after the conquest of Canaan, when they were ruled by a series of judges. It was a time marked by a cycle of disobedience, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. Judges 20 records the account of a civil war between the tribe of Benjamin and the rest of the tribes of Israel.
Background:Prior to the events in Judges 20:12, a terrible incident occurred in Gibeah, a city in the territory of Benjamin. A Levite and his concubine were staying in the city, and during the night, the men of the city demanded to have sexual relations with the Levite. He refused and instead offered his concubine to them, who was subsequently abused and died as a result. This act of wickedness led to outrage and anger among the other tribes of Israel.
Unity in addressing wickedness:In response to the wickedness committed in Gibeah, the tribes of Israel collectively sent men throughout the tribe of Benjamin to confront them. This demonstrates a united effort to address and hold accountable the perpetrators of evil within their own community. The verse highlights the concern and inquiry of the other tribes, seeking to understand the depth of the wickedness committed.
Confronting sin within the community:The actions taken by the tribes of Israel reveal their commitment to justice and righteousness. Instead of turning a blind eye to the wickedness, they chose to confront it head-on. It is important to note that this confrontation is not motivated by revenge but by a desire for justice and the preservation of moral standards within the community.
A call to examine our own communities:The verse challenges us to reflect on how we respond to wickedness within our own communities. Do we turn a blind eye to sin, or do we confront it with a spirit of love, seeking restoration and justice? The example set by the tribes of Israel encourages us to take a stand against wickedness, not only in our personal lives but also within the wider context of our communities.
Seeking truth and accountability:The tribes of Israel sought to understand the extent of the wickedness committed in Benjamin. This reveals the importance of seeking the truth and holding individuals accountable for their actions. When confronted with sin, it is essential to investigate the situation thoroughly, rather than making hasty judgments. Seeking the truth promotes fairness and justice in addressing wrongdoing.
Applying the lesson:As believers, we are called to confront sin within our communities and address it in a manner consistent with God’s principles. This involves taking a stand against wickedness, seeking the truth, and pursuing justice and restoration. However, it is equally important to approach such situations with grace, mercy, and a desire for repentance and transformation.
