Summary of the Verse

This verse captures God's address to the Israelites through the prophet Gideon, emphasizing His sovereignty and the need for obedience. It reflects God's reassurance amidst the people's fear of foreign gods and the challenges they faced living in a land dominated by idol worship.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes that God begins by asserting His identity as their God and challenging the Israelites not to fear the gods of the Amorites. The failure to obey God's voice is highlighted as a key reason for their troubles. Henry notes the contrast between God's power and the impotence of idols and encourages readers to trust in God's omnipotence.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes elaborates on the importance of obedience to divine commands. He describes the Amorites as strong opponents, illustrating Israel's precarious situation. Barnes underscores that fear is often coupled with disobedience and calls believers to stand firm in faith rather than succumbing to fear of earthly powers or deities.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke focuses on the historical context, detailing the Israelites' suffering under the oppression of the Midianites. He notes that fear led to a forsaking of God's true nature. Clarke interprets the phrase "fear not" as God's call to trust in Him and to recognize His previous acts of salvation.

Cross References

Understanding Judges 6:10 can be enhanced through cross-references. Here are several related verses:

• Exodus 20:2-3: "I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. You shall have no other gods before Me." This verse establishes God's authority and their duty to worship Him alone.
• Joshua 24:14-15: "Now fear the Lord and serve Him with all faithfulness... But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve." This passage encourages a commitment to God amidst the presence of other gods.
• Psalm 115:4-8: "Their idols are silver and gold, the work of human hands. They have mouths, but do not speak." This highlights the futility of idol worship compared to the living God.
• Isaiah 41:10: "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God." This verse parallels God's reassurance to His people against fear.
• 1 Kings 18:21: "Elijah approached all the people and said, 'How long will you waver between two opinions?' If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if Baal, then follow him." A challenge against idolatry and indecision in faith.
• Romans 8:31: "What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?" A New Testament assurance of God's protection for those who follow Him.
• Hebrews 10:31: "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." A reminder of the seriousness of straying from God's commandments.
• James 4:7: "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." Emphasizing the importance of submission to God's authority.
• 2 Chronicles 15:2: "The Lord is with you while you are with Him. If you seek Him, He will be found by you." Encouraging active pursuit of God’s presence.
• Matthew 6:24: "No one can serve two masters... You cannot serve God and money." Reinforcing the call to loyalty to God above all else.

Thematic Connections

The themes of obedience, faith, and divine reassurance resonate throughout the Bible. This verse reflects a common biblical narrative where God calls His people to trust Him and adhere to His word despite their circumstances.

• Obedience to God: Many verses emphasize the need for obedience, such as John 14:15, where Christ says, "If you love me, keep my commands."
• Fear of the Lord: Proverbs 1:7 states, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge." This connects back to the necessity of recognizing God's glory over false gods.
• God's Sovereignty: Romans 13:1 teaches that "There is no authority except that which God has established." This links to the idea of trusting God's power over earthly rulers or deities.

Conclusion

Judges 6:10 serves as a profound reminder of the Israelites' need for faithfulness to God and highlights His faithfulness to them despite their struggles. The insights from various commentaries, coupled with the relevant cross-references, create a rich tapestry of understanding regarding God's call to His people.