From “Pride and Mercy” (Judges 8:4-21)
Series: “Missing Life for All the Wrong Reasons”

After defeating the Midianties and deflecting criticism from the Ephraimites (a fellow Israeli tribe), Gideon continues his pursuit of the remaining Midianite forces. Despite the fact that Israel has already been delivered from her enemies, the story of Gideon continues on, showing us what can happen when pride and mercy are mixed together in unfortunate ways.

Gideon continues his leadership of his 300 men, not to serve God’s will, but to serve his own, selfish, vengeful goals. God’s mercy towards Gideon’s lack of faithfulness in previous chapters is contrasted with Gideon’s lack of mercy towards his own people.

Gideon asks two of his fellow Israelite tribes for help in his pursuit. When they refuse, Gideon declares his revenge on them (vv. 4-8). Now, Gideon is technically justified in being angry, but his reaction is clearly over the top. Gideon is out of control, taking the law and justice into his own hands. Gideon goes as far as to order his own son to kill the Midianite leaders (v. 20). Gideon has forgotten who he once was, and who he is before God.

The Gideon we see in this passage is totally different than the Gideon we have been used to seeing. Gideon is no longer the cowering, doubting, insecure man of chapter 6, but Gideon has become a strong, cunning leader. However, we see that Gideon has become a man of pride; not prideful in God and his glory, but of his own accomplishments. We see this in the fact that he feels as though he deserves success and assistance. However, we know that God is a God of mercy, who, despite Gideon’s faults and complete meltdown, has delivered Israel.