What does the Bible say about Gideon?

Gideon was chosen by God to deliver Israel from Midianite oppression. When first introduced in Judges 6:11, he was threshing wheat in secret, afraid of the Midianites. The Angel of the Lord appeared to him and said, “The Lord is with you, you mighty man of valor” (Judges 6:12), even though he felt weak and insignificant.

God confirmed His call through signs, including the famous fleece test in Judges 6:36-40. Though Gideon lacked confidence, the Lord patiently assured him, saying, “Surely I will be with you, and you shall defeat the Midianites as one man” (Judges 6:16).

Gideon obeyed and, with only 300 men, defeated a vast Midianite army by God’s power, not human strength (Judges 7:7). Armed with trumpets, pitchers, and torches, they caused confusion in the enemy camp, demonstrating that victory belongs to the Lord.

After the victory, Israel wanted to make Gideon king, but he refused, saying, “I will not rule over you, nor shall my son rule over you; the Lord shall rule over you” (Judges 8:23). However, he later made an ephod that became a snare to Israel (Judges 8:27), showing the danger of even well-meaning actions becoming idolatrous.

Hebrews 11:32 lists Gideon among the heroes of faith. His life reminds us that God uses the weak to accomplish His purposes, and that faith is not about self-confidence, but about trusting in God’s presence and power.

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