Jephthah’s foolish vow is found in Judges 11:1-40. Impulsive, foolish words, said without thinking. And then followed by tragic actions. That’s the story of Jephthah. Here’s the vow he made, its consequences, and some lessons from it.
Jephthah’s foolish vow. Don’t bargain with God
And Jephthah made a vow to the LORD and said, ‘If you will give the Ammonites into my hand, then whatever comes out from the doors of my house to meet me when I return in peace… shall be the LORD’s, and I will offer it up for a burnt offering. (ESV, Judges 11:30–31)
When God assigns us to a spiritual mission, he provides the resources we need. Sometimes, God confirms his call with a sign, but most often, he simply expects us to trust and obey.
In this story, Jephthah went beyond reassurance and tried to bargain with God to ensure an outcome. Rather than seeking God’s will, he tried to manipulate God to his will. Sound familiar? This is never a good idea and a recipe for disaster. It’s also helpful to keep in mind that God doesn’t call us to serve him because he needs our help. But to bless us with an opportunity to glorify him.
Who is Jephthah?
The period of time in Israel’s history between Joshua’s death and the rule of King Saul is known as the time of the Judges. It was a spiritually dark and politically unstable time when Israel was surrounded by hostile nations who sought to conquer and oppress it. Judges were primarily military leaders that God raised up to protect and deliver the nation.
Jephthah was the son of a prostitute who was rejected by his half-brothers and eventually associated with men of illrepute. A self-fulfilled prophecy of worthlessness. Except for one exceptional attribute. He was a skillful warrior. And when the people who rejected him were threatened by enemies, they turned to Jephthah for help.
Let’s root for Jephthah!
The underdog and social reject. Suddenly with the chance to be a hero. Step up for God and become another feel good, Bible success story.
Except in real life, Bible heros are often flawed and uncertain. Wondering if they’re simply God’s pity pick. But that’s exactly how God often works. He surprises us by making our last pick his first. And using the ones everyone else rejects to further the Kingdom of God. Because God prefers availability over ability.
But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. (ESV, 1 Corinthians 1:27-29)
To go from zero to hero probably caught Jephthah by surprise. So it makes sense he would seek validation. Divine assurance. And he sought to bargain with and manipulate God. However, that’s when he stepped into the bad idea zone.
Jephthah’s foolish vow. Think before you speak.
“And Jephthah made a vow to the LORD and said, ‘If you will give the Ammonites into my hand, then whatever comes out from the doors of my house to meet me when I return in peace… shall be the LORD’s, and I will offer it up for a burnt offering.’” (ESV, Judges 11:30–31)
Seriously, Jephthah. You will sacrifice the first thing to come out of your house? Why not what comes out of the old shed next to the house? The creek out back? And what did you expect to come out of your house anyway? A mouse? Snake? Your mother-in-law? Perhaps in all his fights, Jephthah got whacked in the head too many times with a dumb stick.
Because the first thing to exit his home and greet him when he arrived was his young daughter and only child.
And while we shake our heads at such a ridiculous scenario, are we without sin? Have we not also made foolish claims and then doubled down on them with actions that make things worse? To admit foolishness, requires humility. And willingly confront our sin, confess it, and seek God’s forgiveness.
Jephthah’s foolish vow. Don’t follow foolish words with a sinful action
And he did with her according to his vow. (ESV, Judges 11:39)
God forbids human sacrifice in Leviticus 18:21, Deuteronomy 12:31, and 2 Kings 16:3. And a personal vow–especially a foolish one–does not take priority over God’s law. And yet, strangely, Jephthah felt bound by his oath and went through with it even though it broke God’s law. Did he really think it was a noble form of integrity?
Not at all. It represented both foolish words and warped thinking that was driven by pride. The same thing that drives our foolish words and sinful actions. However, godly humility leads to confession and repentance. The story illustrates the importance of measuring our words against God’s word and adjusting our actions accordingly.
Don’t make vows at all
Jesus said to avoid vows completly and simply use “yes” and “no.” We kid ourselves to think adding vows carries more weight in truthfulness. That only happens when our actions support our words. A reputation for integrity is built on consistent, righteous living. Not vows.
Fortunately, God did except one human sacrifice. His Son, Jesus Christ, who sacrificed himself on a cross for our sins.
Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. (ESV, Ephesians 5:2)
Through Jesus, we are forgiven of our sins, made right with God, and presented the gift of eternal life. The tragic story of Jephthah’s foolish vow points us to the Gospel of Jesus. Where his sacrifice offers us new life.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Enjoy Christian Fiction?
Check out these two detective novels with a mystery, witty dialogue, and Christian message. Soul Pursuit is the first book and Finding Grace the sequel.
A study of John 1:1-14 reveals the Word is preexistent and eternal, God’s agent for creation and salvation, and the physical revelation of God as man.
Background:
The Gospel of John was written by John the apostle near the end of his life around 80-95 AD. And identifies himself as the disciple “whom Jesus loved.” At this time in history, original Jewish leaders like Peter, James the brother of Jesus, and Paul had been martyred and there were more Gentiles in the Christian church than Jews. It is this mixed audience that John writes to.
A study of John 1:1-14 reveals Jesus is the preexistent and eternal God.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. (ESV, John 1:1-2)
Who is Jesus Christ? This was the central question during Jesus’ earthly ministry, among the early churches, and we still ask it today. The Gospel of John provides a clear answer. And he does so by going back to the beginning.
The Greek word for “beginning” in John is arche, which means beginning, origin, and first cause. And the Hebrew word for “beginning” in Genesis is berēʾšît, which means beginning, first, or first fruits. Both point to the beginning of creation.
John strategically refers to Jesus as the “word” which is the Greek word logos. It had a unique meaning to both groups in his audience.
Word = Logos
To the Jews, “word” carries power. God spoke the world into existence. Jesus calmed a raging storm with commanding words. And God’s written word communicates his covenantal law and reveals his will. However, to the Greeks, logos meant reason. The Stoics said logos was the divine rational principle that brought order to chaos, pervaded all things, and structured the cosmos.
And now, John makes an audacious claim. The Word was present at the time of creation, which means he is eternal and preexistent. Furthermore, he was with God and was God. In other words, he is a different person, but has the same divine essence as God the Father. The second person of the trinity composed of God the Father, Son, and Spirit.
A study of John 1:1-14 reveals Jesus is God’s agent for creation and the light of men
All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. (ESV, John 1:3)
The world did not evolve by chance. A random, uncaused spark out of nothingness that exploded into somethingness–a completely ordered universe of marvel and wonder. Rather, it was intentional. An Almighty design from divine imagination, yet precisely engineered and structured for mankind. And not just made by the Word, but held together by him too.
They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. (ESV, Ephesians 4:18)
But the Word is also a light for humanity. Because shortly after creation, the sin of Adam and Eve plunged the world into spiritual darkness. One that separates us from God and we can’t fix on our own. But the Word illuminates the way back to God.
REFLECTION:
How do you answer the question: Who is Jesus?
Describe the background story that forms your spiritual life today.
Do you relate more to the Jewish or Greek concept of logos? Explain your thoughts.
Describe your understanding of spiritual darkness. How is Jesus a light for you?
A study of John 1:1-14) reveals Jesus is God’s agent for salvation
But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. (ESV, John 1:12-13)
You’d think everyone would run to the light. But that is not the case and John readily admits it. Many people reject Jesus for different reasons. However, those who turn from spiritual darkness to the light and receive Jesus as Savior and Lord are spiritually reborn as children of God.
The Greek word for “Receive” is Lambano which means to receive a person, give access to one’s self, and take possession of.
In other words, receiving the light involves more than passive acceptance. Like simply accepting a gift. It expects a response. Not just a simple, do you receive this gift? But are you opening yourself up to what you are receiving? Will you fully embrace it? Make a whole hearted commitment to it? In other words, if you receive Jesus are you all in?
The Greek word for “believe” is pisteuō and means to trust, rely on, and cling to. It indicates that belief in Jesus is more than intellectual assent. Like believing in the existence of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. A superficial belief that requres nothing from you. Belief in Jesus involves a personal commitment. A willingness to follow Jesus as a disciple. To put your eternal life in his hands and trust him for the salvation that only he offers.
A study of John 1:1-14 reveals that Jesus is the physical revelation of God as man.
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son. (ESV, John 1:14)
Jesus didn’t simply put on a human form, like a set of clothes. He was fully human and fully God. And he experienced human life in every way that we do. The uncertainties, fears, hardships, pain, emotions, and temptations. Therefore, he understands our struggles. And he guides and supports us as we strive to follow him.
In Jesus, we see the Father. Through him, we are relationally restored with God. And by following him, we glorify God as we walk by faith in his righteousness.
REFLECTION:
Does the idea that “receiving” Jesus is more than passive acceptance change your ideas about the salvation process? Describe what you think belief in Jesus involves.
What is significant about the fact that Jesus is the agent of both creation and the spiritual recreation of mankind?
John makes it clear that Jesus is God in a completely human form. Why is this an important truth?
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
Biblical signs of a hard heart. The Bible describes a hard heart as one that rejects God’s word and is blind to his truth. Isaiah 6:9-10 presents signs that indicate it.
Biblical signs of a hard heart. It is blind to and resists truth.
Keep on hearing, but do not understand; keep on seeing, but do not perceive. (ESV, Isaiah 6:9)
I enjoy watching sports on TV. But run for snacks during commercial breaks to skip all the promotional messages. And many people approach the Bible’s message with the same indifference. Good for you if Christianity floats your boat, but leave me out. However, a hard heart goes beyond indifference. It’s a complete rejection of God’s word. The confrontation between Moses and Pharaoh in Exodus is a good example.
And the Lord said to Moses, “When you go back to Egypt, see that you do before Pharaoh all the miracles that I have put in your power. But I will harden his heart, so that he will not let the people go. (ESV, Exodus 4:7)
Despite all the miracles Moses performed, Pharaoh had his mind made up and refused to let the Israelites go. And people today have their minds made up too. They reject the idea of following rules, giving up control, and want complete freedom to live as they please. In short, the Bible cramps their lifestyle. Ironically, a life with no moral restraints leads to oppression while Jesus Christ sets you free.
Biblical signs of a hard heart. It is not about intellect but about the heart.
Make the heart of this people dull, and their ears heavy, and blind their eyes. (ESV, Isaiah 6:10a)
Some people reject the Bible based on intellect. It’s simply a make-believe fantasy that doesn’t fool intelligent people. However, the Bible is not meant to be proven, but accepted on faith. And this is not a matter of intellect, but the heart. This too, is often culturally misunderstood.
The Bible views the heart to include our mind, will, conscience, and spirit. It’s the center of our desires, thinking, choosing, and believing. The “dull heart” in this verse is spiritually sluggish, insensitive, and slow to perceive. What we call desensitized. The social acclimation to moral decline. What was once, morally unacceptable in the culture slowly becomes an accepted norm.
For example, profanity was rarely expressed in political discourse a few years ago. Now it’s the new cool people seem eager to join. But it’s a slow fade that leads us away from the righteousness and holiness that God desires.
The word for “heavy” means to make stubborn. And to “hear with their ears” means to be attentive. Therefore, a hard heart doesn’t reject God because someone is too smart. But too proud.
Biblical signs of a hard heart. The opposite of a hard heart is humble repentance.
Lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed. (ESV, Isaiah 6:10b)
The opposite of pride is humility, which fosters a receptive heart. The Apostle Paul describes it this way.
Having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, (ESV, Ephesians 1:18)
Seeing with our hearts involves spiritual self-awareness. It recognizes that our sin separates us from God. And this leads to confession and repentance, which Isaiah calls a “turn”–meaning a turn away from sin to God. And the forgiveness of Jesus Christ brings spiritual healing and a restored relationship with God.
But the greatest tragedy of a hard heart is missing the opportunity to experience God’s amazing grace and gift of eternal life.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
The danger of assumptions is found in Joshua 22:10-34. After God’s promised land was distributed among Israel, the tribes of Rueben, Gad, and half-tribe of Manassah stopped on the way into their land and built a large alter. The other tribes assumed it was for worshipping other gods and prepared for war against them. Here are lessons from the story.
The danger of assumptions. God calls us to unified godliness
Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is mine;and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. (Exodus 19:5-6)
God called Israel his treasured possession as part of a covenant. That is, an agreement where both sides keep up their end. Israel obeys God’s voice. And God makes them a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. Oh, and he also delivers the promised land.
Israel is now collecting on that promise. After leaving Egypt, wandering in the wilderness 40 years and finally defeating all their enemies, the promised land is theirs to inhabit. But wait. What’s going on with the tribes of Rueben, Gad, and half-tribe of Manassah? On the way in to settle their alloted land, they stop to build a large alter.
The other tribes were appalled. ARE YOU GUYS CRAZY? You’ll get us all in trouble!
Ever been there? Out with friends and suddenly one or two do something stupid? And if caught you’re all in trouble. Even though it wasn’t your idea and you didn’t participate.
That’s what the other tribes were thinking. They assumed the three tribes were building an alter to another god. Strictly forbidden by the Lord God Almighty. And he would punish all of them for it. So in a huff, they gathered and prepared for war against their brothers.
But we are not so different, even today. God also calls us to unity as brothers and sisters in Christ. However, we are still sinners and often confuse God’s will with our own agenda. And when other Christ-followers disagree it causes division. And even well meaning ideas are misunderstood. But unity comes through humility, truth, and covenant faithfulness. It requires prayer, thoughtful discussion, and genuinely seeking God’s will.
The danger of assumptions. Seek clarification
What is this breach of faith that you have committed against the God of Israel in turning away this day from following the Lord by building yourselves an altar this day in rebellion against the Lord? (ESV, Joshua 22:16)
Before the other tribes of Israel attacked, someone had a sensible thought. Maybe they should first clarify the intentions for the alter. So a group went to ask and learned it was a misunderstanding. The tribes of Rueben, Gad, and half-tribe of Manassah did not build it to worship another god. But intended it as a memorial. A reminder and witness of their commitment to the God of Israel.
Tension dissipated as they filled with relief at the averted disaster. A frequent occurence when assumptions jump to conclusions followed by emotional, rash actions.
And the truth is, the bad we assume in others comes from our own sinful thoughts and desires. And our reactions are often ungodly and unjustified. Instead, our first response should give others the benefit of the doubt. This avoids unneeded conflicts and promotes unity and harmony with others.
But what if the assumption is correct? That’s when humility, grace, prayer, and even tempered dialogue should take place in a godly fashion.
The danger of assumptions. Christ-followers who worship and pray together, stay together.
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. (ESV, 1 Peter 2:9)
Because Jesus Christ died for our sins, now, all who profess him as Savior and Lord also become part of the royal priesthood and God’s special possession. And as Christ-followers, gather as the New Testament church to worship God and celebrate victory over the bondage of sin.
But we still sin. So while we pursue godly righteousness, we still battle our sinful, human nature. Therefore, even as brothers and sisters in Christ, we disagree, sometimes argue, fight, and feud. And navigate the misunderstandings that result from assumptions.
There is no simple formula for avoiding all church conflicts. But the best prevention is regular, individual, and corporate connection with God’s Spirit through genuine worship and regular prayer. Adding, “I’m sorry” and “You’re forgiven” will also foster spiritual unity.
As we seek to honor God and walk together in faith.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
Sodom and Gomorrah lessons. Genesis 19 records God’s destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah somewhere around 2,000 BC for their sinful wickedness. Here are lessons for us today.
Sodom and Gomorrah lessons. God will judge human wickedness
I will go down to see whether they have done altogether according to the outcry that has come to me. (ESV, Genesis 18:21)
Sodom and Gomorrah were located in the Jordan valley described in Genesis 13:10 as “well watered everywhere like the garden of the Lord.” In other words, rich, fertile land great for farming. But the two cities had a reputation for sinful wickedness.
So God sent two angels as men to report on its moral condition. When the men entered the city, they met Lott who immediately offered the strangers hospitality for night. Although the men offered to sleep out in the city square, Lott insisted they stay in his home. His concern for their safety was well founded. That night, a mob of men from the city tried to break into Lott’s home to sexually assualt his guests. Therefore, the angels struck them with blindness and they groped around harmlessly, unable to find the door.
Sodom and Gomorrah lessons. God’s grace spares the righteous.
Will you indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked? (ESV, Genesis 18:23)
Meanwhile, Abraham appealed to God on Sodom’s behalf. Why? Probably to save his nephew Lott along with his family.
“Wait, Lord,” he said. “If you find 50 righteous people in the city will you spare their lives?” God agreed, Still, Abraham persisted.
“What if there are 45, 40, or 10 righteous?” Again, God agreed.
Is God wishy washy? No. But Abraham’s boldness in bargaining illustrates an important point. God does not want to punish mankind.
The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. (ESV, 2 Peter 3:9)
However, because he is just, God cannot simply ignore sin. It carries a death penalty that must be paid. Fortunately, that’s exactly what Jesus Christ did for us on the cross.
Lott’s hospitality to the angels.
Hospitality was an important Jewish, cultural mandate. And Lott’s insistence and attempt to protect the angels demonstrated his righteousness as a Jewish man of faith. However, righteousness before God is not based on godly actions themselves, but the motivation of the heart. In other words, a heart that seeks to please God and obey his commands. It is this same desire that represents righteousness today. Not the perfection of righteous actions, but a heart that is devoted to pursuing them.
In the morning, the angels urged Lott and his family to leave the city because God was going to destroy it. But the family resisted. Of course, this is understandable from a human perspective. To suddenly learn their guests were angels about to destroy the city was shocking information. When Lott informed his daughter’s fiances, they thought he was joking and refused to leave with them.
Finally, the angels grabbed Lott, his wife, and two daughters by the hands and led them out of the city.
Sodom and Gomorrah lessons. Take God’s warning seriously.
God’s word is full of warnings, advice, and wise counsel. And to ignore, disregard or grow complacent regarding them invites consequences. Although much of God’s word requires thoughtul study, the message in this story is clear. When God declares he will do something, he does it. So take his warnings seriously and adjust accordingly.
The angels warned the family to not look back. But Lott’s wife couldn’t help herself. Just one more wistful look at the life she was leaving behind. A life of cherished memories. Of friends and neighbors. Was that too much to ask?
And she turned into a pillar of salt. Was that literal or perhaps some form of mummification by sulphur and volcanic ash? We don’t know. And while reminiscing on cherished memories has a rightful place, Christ-followers should exercise a faith that moves forward. Striving to follow, grow, and imitate our Lord.
For it is by God’s grace and the sacrifice of his Son, Jesus Christ that we are eternally saved.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
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