Published by Vince Baker Ministries ·
“Then the Spirit of the LORD came upon Jephthah, and he passed over Gilead, and Manasseh, and passed over Mizpeh of Gilead, and from Mizpeh of Gilead he passed over unto the children of Ammon.”
Judges 11:29 · KJV
How does the chapter introduce Jephthah?
Jephthah had been driven away by his brothers and later was asked to lead Gilead against Ammon. He first attempts diplomacy. When the conflict continues, the Spirit comes upon him and he passes through the region. His vow follows. Pay attention to the verbs and who speaks each word.
What happens when his daughter comes out?
Jephthah’s only child comes out to greet him, and the story turns to grief. Readers have debated exactly how the vow was carried out. The chapter’s emphasis on his daughter’s sorrow and the annual remembrance makes its human cost plain. Israel’s law condemns sacrificing children. This story calls for restraint when we are tempted to bargain in fear.
Replace the bargain with a prayer
Read Judges 11:29–35 and ask God for help with a need you are tempted to approach through bargaining. Make your request plainly and consider what a wise, lawful act of obedience would look like.
Read the Scripture passages
- Judges 11:29 · KJV
- Judges 11:1-11 · KJV
- Judges 11:29-40 · KJV
- Deuteronomy 12:29-31 · KJV
- Hebrews 11:32 · KJV
