Judges 11
BSB1 Now Jephthah the Gileadite was a mighty man of valor; he was the son of a prostitute, and Gilead was his father. 2 And Gilead’s wife bore him sons who grew up, drove Jephthah out, and said to him, “You shall have no inheritance in our father’s house, because you are the son of another woman." 3 So Jephthah fled from his brothers and settled in the land of Tob, where worthless men gathered around him and traveled with him. 4 Some time later, when the Ammonites fought against Israel 5 and made war with them, the elders of Gilead went to get Jephthah from the land of Tob. 6 “Come,” they said, “be our commander, so that we can fight against the Ammonites." 7 Jephthah replied to the elders of Gilead, “Did you not hate me and expel me from my father’s house? Why then have you come to me now, when you are in distress?" 8 They answered Jephthah, “This is why we now turn to you, that you may go with us, fight the Ammonites, and become leader over all of us who live in Gilead." 9 But Jephthah asked them, “If you take me back to fight the Ammonites and the LORD gives them to me, will I really be your leader?" 10 And the elders of Gilead said to Jephthah, “The LORD is our witness if we do not do as you say." 11 So Jephthah went with the elders of Gilead, and the people made him their leader and commander. And Jephthah repeated all his terms in the presence of the LORD at Mizpah. 12 Then Jephthah sent messengers to the king of the Ammonites, saying, “What do you have against me that you have come to fight against my land?" 13 The king of the Ammonites answered Jephthah’s messengers, “When Israel came up out of Egypt, they seized my land, from the Arnon to the Jabbok and all the way to the Jordan. Now, therefore, restore it peaceably." 14 Jephthah again sent messengers to the king of the Ammonites 15 to tell him, “This is what Jephthah says: Israel did not take away the land of Moab or of the Ammonites. 16 But when Israel came up out of Egypt, they traveled through the wilderness to the Red Sea and came to Kadesh. 17 Then Israel sent messengers to the king of Edom, saying, ‘Please let us pass through your land,’ but the king of Edom would not listen. They also sent messengers to the king of Moab, but he would not consent. So Israel stayed in Kadesh. 18 Then Israel traveled through the wilderness and bypassed the lands of Edom and Moab. They came to the east side of the land of Moab and camped on the other side of the Arnon. But they did not enter the territory of Moab, since the Arnon was its border. 19 And Israel sent messengers to Sihon king of the Amorites, who ruled in Heshbon, and said to him, ‘Please let us pass through your land into our own place.’ 20 But Sihon would not trust Israel to pass through his territory. So he gathered all his people, encamped in Jahaz, and fought with Israel. 21 Then the LORD, the God of Israel, delivered Sihon and all his people into the hand of Israel, who defeated them. So Israel took possession of all the land of the Amorites who inhabited that country, 22 seizing all the land from the Arnon to the Jabbok and from the wilderness to the Jordan. 23 Now since the LORD, the God of Israel, has driven out the Amorites from before His people Israel, should you now possess it? 24 Do you not possess whatever your god Chemosh grants you? So also, we possess whatever the LORD our God has granted us. 25 Are you now so much better than Balak son of Zippor, king of Moab? Did he ever contend with Israel or fight against them? 26 For three hundred years Israel has lived in Heshbon, Aroer, and their villages, as well as all the cities along the banks of the Arnon. Why did you not take them back during that time? 27 I have not sinned against you, but you have done me wrong by waging war against me. May the LORD, the Judge, decide today between the Israelites and the Ammonites." 28 But the king of the Ammonites paid no heed to the message Jephthah sent him. 29 Then the Spirit of the LORD came upon Jephthah, and he passed through Gilead and Manasseh, then through Mizpah of Gilead. And from there he advanced against the Ammonites. 30 Jephthah made this vow to the LORD: “If indeed You will deliver the Ammonites into my hand, 31 then whatever comes out the door of my house to greet me on my triumphant return from the Ammonites will belong to the LORD, and I will offer it up as a burnt offering." 32 So Jephthah crossed over to the Ammonites to fight against them, and the LORD delivered them into his hand. 33 With a great blow he devastated twenty cities from Aroer to the vicinity of Minnith, as far as Abel-keramim. So the Ammonites were subdued before the Israelites. 34 And when Jephthah returned home to Mizpah, there was his daughter coming out to meet him with tambourines and dancing! She was his only child; he had no son or daughter besides her. 35 As soon as Jephthah saw her, he tore his clothes and said, “No! Not my daughter! You have brought me to my knees! You have brought great misery upon me, for I have given my word to the LORD and cannot take it back." 36 “My father,” she replied, “you have given your word to the LORD. Do to me as you have said, for the LORD has avenged you of your enemies, the Ammonites." 37 She also said to her father, “Let me do this one thing: Let me wander for two months through the mountains with my friends and mourn my virginity." 38 “Go,” he said. And he sent her away for two months. So she left with her friends and mourned her virginity upon the mountains. 39 After two months, she returned to her father, and he did to her as he had vowed. And she had never had relations with a man. So it has become a custom in Israel 40 that each year the young women of Israel go out for four days to lament the daughter of Jephthah the Gileadite.
Study Notes — Judges 11
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Judges 11
- Themes from Judges 11
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Judges 11
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The chapter begins with an introduction to Jephthah, a skilled warrior who has been rejected by his family (Judges 11:1-3). The Israelites, however, seek him out to lead them in battle against the Ammonites (Judges 11:4-11). Jephthah agrees to lead the Israelites, but only if they acknowledge him as their leader (Judges 11:9-10). Before going into battle, Jephthah makes a vow to God, promising to sacrifice the first thing that comes out of his house if he is victorious (Judges 11:30-31). The Israelites are victorious, and Jephthah's daughter is the first to greet him, leading to a difficult decision for Jephthah (Judges 11:34-40). The chapter concludes with a description of Jephthah's victory and the subsequent conflict with the Ephraimites (Judges 11:41-12:7).
Context for the Chapter
Judges 11 is part of the larger narrative of the book of Judges, which describes the cycle of sin, judgment, and redemption that the Israelites experienced during the period of the judges. This chapter fits into the story of the Israelites' ongoing struggle with the Ammonites, and it highlights the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and providence. The chapter also looks forward to the larger biblical narrative, as it foreshadows the coming of Christ, who would ultimately deliver God's people from their enemies and establish a new covenant with them.
Heart Application
As we reflect on Jephthah's story, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and providence, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. We are called to obey God's commands, even when it is hard, and to trust in His power and wisdom to overcome our enemies. May we, like Jephthah, be willing to make sacrifices and take risks for the sake of following God, and may we trust in His goodness and faithfulness to deliver us.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter tells the story of Jephthah, a man who trusted in God for victory despite being rejected by his family. Jephthah made a vow to God, promising to sacrifice the first thing that came out of his house if he was victorious (Judges 11:30-31). The chapter highlights the importance of faith and obedience, even in difficult circumstances. As we read this chapter, we are reminded to trust in God's sovereignty and providence, and to be willing to make sacrifices for the sake of following Him.
Voices from the Church
“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. Jephthah's story reminds us that even in our failures, God can use us for His glory.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“Jephthah's vow was a rash and unadvised act, but it also demonstrates the importance of keeping our promises to God, even when it is difficult.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction to Jephthah (Judges 11:1-3) — Jephthah is introduced as a skilled warrior who has been rejected by his family.
- The Israelites' Request for Jephthah's Leadership (Judges 11:4-11) — The Israelites seek out Jephthah to lead them in battle against the Ammonites.
- Jephthah's Vow to God (Judges 11:30-31) — Jephthah makes a vow to God, promising to sacrifice the first thing that comes out of his house if he is victorious.
- The Consequences of Jephthah's Vow (Judges 11:34-40) — Jephthah's daughter is the first to greet him, leading to a difficult decision for Jephthah.
- Conclusion and Aftermath (Judges 11:41-12:7) — The chapter concludes with a description of Jephthah's victory and the subsequent conflict with the Ephraimites.
Core Doctrines
- Sovereignty of God
- This chapter highlights God's sovereignty over all things, including the outcome of battles and the lives of individuals. Jephthah's trust in God's sovereignty is a key theme of the chapter.
- Importance of Obedience
- Jephthah's story demonstrates the importance of obeying God's commands, even when it is difficult. His vow to God is a pivotal moment in the chapter, as it demonstrates his commitment to obedience.
- Faith and Trust
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. Jephthah's trust in God's power and wisdom to deliver him is a key aspect of his story.
- Redemption and Salvation
- While not explicitly stated, the chapter looks forward to the larger biblical narrative of redemption and salvation. Jephthah's story foreshadows the coming of Christ, who would ultimately deliver God's people from their enemies and establish a new covenant with them.
Lessons from Judges 11
- Trust in God's Sovereignty — Jephthah's story teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
- Importance of Obedience — The chapter emphasizes the importance of obeying God's commands, even when it is difficult.
- Faith and Trust in God — Jephthah's trust in God's power and wisdom to deliver him is a key aspect of his story.
- Making Vows to God — The chapter highlights the importance of being careful when making vows to God, and considering the potential consequences.
- Redemption and Salvation — Jephthah's story looks forward to the larger biblical narrative of redemption and salvation, and the coming of Christ.
Themes from Judges 11
- Faith and Trust — The chapter emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
- Obedience and Faithfulness — Jephthah's story demonstrates the importance of obeying God's commands and being faithful to Him.
- Sovereignty of God — The chapter highlights God's sovereignty over all things, including the outcome of battles and the lives of individuals.
- Redemption and Salvation — Jephthah's story looks forward to the larger biblical narrative of redemption and salvation, and the coming of Christ.
- Making Vows to God — The chapter highlights the importance of being careful when making vows to God, and considering the potential consequences.
Questions for Meditation
- What can we learn from Jephthah's background and how he was rejected by his family?
- How does Jephthah's vow to God demonstrate his commitment to obedience and faithfulness?
- What are some ways in which we can apply the principles of faith and trust from Jephthah's story to our own lives?
- How does Jephthah's story relate to the larger biblical narrative of redemption and salvation?
- What are some potential dangers of making vows to God, and how can we avoid them?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction to Jephthah (Judges 11:1-3)
| Judges 11:1 | Jephthah is introduced as a skilled warrior who has been rejected by his family. |
| Judges 11:2 | Jephthah's family rejects him because he is the son of a prostitute. |
2. The Israelites' Request for Jephthah's Leadership (Judges 11:4-11)
| Judges 11:4 | The Israelites seek out Jephthah to lead them in battle against the Ammonites. |
| Judges 11:5 | The elders of Gilead ask Jephthah to be their leader. |
3. Jephthah's Negotiations with the Ammonites (Judges 11:12-28)
| Judges 11:12 | Jephthah sends a message to the Ammonites, asking why they are attacking the Israelites. |
| Judges 11:13 | The Ammonites respond, claiming that the Israelites took their land when they came out of Egypt. |
4. Jephthah's Vow to God (Judges 11:29-31)
| Judges 11:29 | The Spirit of the Lord comes upon Jephthah, and he makes a vow to God. |
| Judges 11:30 | Jephthah promises to sacrifice the first thing that comes out of his house if he is victorious. |
5. The Consequences of Jephthah's Vow (Judges 11:32-40)
| Judges 11:32 | Jephthah defeats the Ammonites, but his daughter is the first to greet him. |
| Judges 11:33 | Jephthah is distressed because he must keep his vow to God. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Jephthah's vow to God?
Jephthah's vow to God demonstrates his commitment to obedience and faithfulness, even in the midst of difficult circumstances (Judges 11:30-31).
Why did Jephthah's family reject him?
Jephthah's family rejected him because he was the son of a prostitute (Judges 11:1-2).
What is the outcome of Jephthah's battle with the Ammonites?
Jephthah defeats the Ammonites, but his victory is bittersweet because he must keep his vow to God and sacrifice his daughter (Judges 11:32-40).
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Judges 11:1 → Hebrews 11:32 | Jephthah is mentioned in the Hebrews 11 hall of faith as an example of a man who trusted in God's sovereignty. |
| 2 | Judges 11:30 → Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 | Jephthah's vow to God is an example of the importance of being careful when making vows to God, and considering the potential consequences. |
| 3 | Judges 11:12 → Numbers 21:24 | The Ammonites' claim that the Israelites took their land is based on the events described in Numbers 21:24. |
| 4 | Judges 11:27 → 1 Samuel 12:7 | Jephthah's statement that God is the Judge is similar to Samuel's statement in 1 Samuel 12:7. |
| 5 | Judges 11:29 → Judges 3:10 | The Spirit of the Lord comes upon Jephthah, just as it came upon Othniel in Judges 3:10. |
| 6 | Judges 11:32 → 2 Chronicles 20:1-30 | Jephthah's defeat of the Ammonites is similar to Jehoshaphat's defeat of the Moabites and Ammonites in 2 Chronicles 20:1-30. |
| 7 | Judges 11:34 → Genesis 22:1-19 | Jephthah's sacrifice of his daughter is similar to Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac in Genesis 22:1-19. |
| 8 | Judges 11:39 → Matthew 9:18-26 | Jephthah's daughter is mourned for two months by the daughters of Israel, highlighting the significance of her sacrifice. |
| 9 | Judges 11:40 → Leviticus 27:1-8 | The custom of the daughters of Israel mourning for Jephthah's daughter is similar to the custom of making vows to God described in Leviticus 27:1-8. |
| 10 | Judges 11:1-3 → John 1:1 | Jephthah's story, like the story of Jesus, is one of rejection and ultimate vindication. |
Sermons on Judges 11
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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The Devil Is After One Thing in Your Trial by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having God's word deeply rooted within us to resist the devices of darkness. They rebuke depression and lies of the devil, |
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Horton Haven Labor Day Retreat-12 Commitment of the Early Church by William MacDonald | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the spiritual over worldly achievements. They highlight the idea that the dream or desire for something is oft |
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Lionhearted and Lamblike the Christian Husband as Head, Part 2 by John Piper | This sermon focuses on the role of husbands as leaders in their homes, drawing from Ephesians 5 to emphasize the husband's responsibility to provide Christ-like servant leadership, |
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Judas: The Lost Disciple: What Happens After Death? - William Blackburn by From the Pulpit & Classic Sermons | In this sermon, William Blackburn discusses the concept of death and what happens after we die. He explains that death is when the soul separates from the body and has the choice t |
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Our Daily Homily - Judges by F.B. Meyer | F.B. Meyer emphasizes the persistent nature of evil habits in our lives, likening them to the Canaanites who resisted being dislodged from the land. He reminds us that as believers |
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Jephthah, or the Faith That Leads to Faithfulness by A.B. Simpson | A.B. Simpson's sermon on 'Jephthah, or the Faith That Leads to Faithfulness' emphasizes the transformative power of faith and God's ability to use the despised for His glory. Jepht |
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"When Thou Vowest a Vow, Defer Not to Pay It" by Timothy Tow | Timothy Tow preaches about the seriousness of making vows to God, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling them once spoken, as seen in the stories of Jephthah and Hannah. He share |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Judges 11
In this chapter, we see the story of Jephthah, a man who trusted in God's sovereignty and providence, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. Jephthah's vow to God, promising to sacrifice the first thing that comes out of his house if he is victorious, demonstrates his commitment to obedience and faithfulness. However, this vow also leads to a difficult decision for Jephthah, as he must choose between keeping his vow and sparing his daughter's life. Through Jephthah's story, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God's power and wisdom, and of being careful when making vows to Him. As Matthew Henry notes, Jephthah's story serves as a warning against making rash vows, and as a reminder of the importance of considering the potential consequences of our actions. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
Jephthah's Background
Jephthah is introduced as a skilled warrior, but also as someone who has been rejected by his family (Judges 11:1-3). This background information helps us understand Jephthah's motivations and actions throughout the chapter.
The Israelites' Desperation
The Israelites are desperate for a leader to deliver them from the Ammonites, and they are willing to accept Jephthah as their leader despite his questionable background (Judges 11:4-11). This desperation highlights the Israelites' lack of trust in God and their tendency to rely on human leaders rather than God Himself.
Jephthah's Vow
Jephthah's vow to God is a pivotal moment in the chapter, as it demonstrates his commitment to obedience and faithfulness (Judges 11:30-31). However, it also leads to a difficult decision for Jephthah, as he must choose between keeping his vow and sparing his daughter's life.