Judges 6:23
In this passage, the angel of the LORD comforts Gideon in a moment of great fear. *“The LORD said to him, ‘Peace to you, do not fear; you shall not die.’”* (v.23) Gideon is understandably terrified after encountering God’s messenger and realizing the seriousness of his commission as Israel’s deliverer. This verse signifies God’s assurance that His protection and favor rest upon Gideon, despite his initial feelings of inadequacy. During this period of Israel’s history, roughly around 1200–1100 BC, the nation faced repeated invasions by the Midianites. Gideon, who was from the clan of Abiezer in the region of Ophrah (a location believed to have been in the northern hill country near the Valley of Jezreel), doubted his ability to fulfill God’s calling, but God’s promise of peace underscores His intent to use Gideon powerfully.
God’s promise, *“Peace to you, do not fear,”* (v.23) speaks volumes about His character and the nature of His interactions with those He calls. Although Gideon felt uncertain and overwhelmed, the LORD’s assurance highlights that God provides courage where there is fear. The reference to *“you shall not die”* (v.23) is more than a statement of survival; it is a guarantee of God’s providential care. Whenever God’s people step out in obedience—like Moses before Pharaoh or David facing Goliath—they learn that victory comes from the LORD’s presence, not their own might. In the New Testament, Jesus similarly comforts His disciples by telling them not to fear and to trust in Him (John 14:27 NASB-95 version), emphasizing spiritual peace in the midst of life’s challenges.
The emphasis on peace can be understood in light of God’s covenant with His chosen people. Gideon’s call to rescue Israel during a time of oppression demonstrates God’s continuing faithfulness to His promises. His words, *“do not fear,”* (v.23) echo through the ages, reminding us that God’s guidance supersedes our weaknesses. Eventually, Gideon led a small band of men to defeat the vast Midianite army (Judges 7:7 NASB-95 version), proving that when God assures peace, He also grants the resources needed to carry out His plans.
God’s assurance rests in the faithful obedience of His servants.
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 2:6-10 meaning. This passage from Judges provides a snapshot of the transition from Joshua’s leadership to the period of the judges, highlighting both continuity and change in Israel’s spiritual and societal landscape.
- Judges 4:23-24 meaning. These final verses mark the conclusion of the battle against Jabin, king of Canaan. After Sisera’s defeat and death, God continues to subdue Jabin’s forces, leading to Israel’s increasing dominance over him. Over time, the Israelites press harder against Jabin until they fully destroy his rule, securing their freedom from Canaanite oppression.
- Judges 5:19-23 meaning. In the final part of the song of Deborah and Barak, they continue to celebrate Israel's victory over the Canaanite oppressors. The narrative shifts to a poetic description of the battle and the divine intervention that led to Israel's triumph.