Judges 6:16
*“But the LORD said to him, ‘Surely I will be with you, and you shall defeat Midian as one man.’”* (v.16) In this passage, the LORD speaks directly to Gideon, providing both a promise and a command. Gideon is called to confront the Midianites, who have been oppressing Israel for an extended period. Midian, an ancient region located east of the Sinai Peninsula and northwestern Arabia, had become a constant threat to the Israelite tribes by invading and plundering their land (Judges 6:1–6 NASB-95). Gideon, who lived around the late 12th to early 11th century BC, stands in the lineage of Israelite leaders who rose up before the establishment of the monarchy. Here, the LORD’s assurance of His presence is a pivotal reminder that victory will not depend on Gideon’s might but on divine power.
As the verse explains, *“Surely I will be with you”* (v.16) indicates God’s personal commitment to Gideon’s success, reflecting a pattern seen throughout Scripture where God reassures people of His presence before sending them into daunting tasks (Exodus 3:12 NASB-95). This declaration echoes countless moments in the Old Testament in which God’s people found confidence amid formidable odds because of God’s presence. The phrase, *“and you shall defeat Midian as one man”* (v.16), underscores unity and swiftness in the coming victory. Despite Midian’s numerous forces, the outcome is determined and guaranteed by the LORD. In the broader biblical narrative, this foreshadows the way God often chooses the humble and apparently least-likely individuals, culminating in Jesus Christ’s humble arrival and triumph over sin (Philippians 2:7–8 NASB-95).
Furthermore, Gideon’s role in leading Israel at this time sets the stage for the cyclical pattern found in the Book of Judges: Israel’s disobedience leads to oppression, which sparks a cry for deliverance, followed by God raising up a judge or deliverer. Gideon’s story, including his encounter with the Angel of the LORD, marks a turning point in Israel’s history, demonstrating that deliverance arises from faith in God, not in one’s personal strength. By responding to God’s promise in Judges 6:16, Gideon becomes an instrument for the Divine plan, reminiscent of how notable figures in Scripture—such as Moses, Joshua, and later the prophets—committed themselves to God’s calling despite personal insecurity.
God promises victory despite the odds.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Judges 1:16-21 meaning. The descendants of the Kenite join the tribe of Judah in their territory. Despite the Lord’s presence, Judah fails to drive out the inhabitants of the valley, beginning to show the start of their failures. Caleb is given Hebron and drives out the Anakim, but the tribe of Benjamin also fails in their war efforts.
- Judges 4:12-16 meaning. This passage describes the climactic battle between Barak’s forces and Sisera’s army. Deborah urges Barak to act, affirming that God has already secured victory. As Barak leads his men into battle, God intervenes, routing Sisera’s forces. Sisera flees on foot while his entire army is destroyed.
- Judges 3:1-6 meaning. God allows certain nations in Canaan to continue to exist. This is an opportunity for Israel to grow in its faithfulness and learn how to defend itself. But these nations become a snare to Israel as they intermarry with the Canaanites and adopt their idolatrous practices.