How Can One Man’s Choices Challenge Ancient Teachings?
In this article, you will learn how Judges 8:30 contradicts Deuteronomy 17:17, 1 Kings 11:3-4, Matthew 19:4-6 and 1 Timothy 3:2. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The story of Gideon, as chronicled in Judges, presents a vivid picture of a man with a vast family. Judges 8:30 reveals that Gideon had 70 sons from many wives, showcasing the cultural acceptance of polygamy during his time. However, this narrative stands in stark contrast to various scriptural teachings.
Deuteronomy 17:17 is clear in its guidance to kings, instructing them not to multiply wives. This ancient rule set a foundation for leaders to avoid the complications multiple marriages could bring, aiming for stability and focus in governance. Gideon, though not a king, was a judge and leader, his actions seemingly contradictory to this wisdom aimed at leadership integrity.
Similarly, 1 Kings 11:3-4 narrates the life of Solomon, whose numerous wives lead him astray. Solomon's downfall acts as a cautionary tale about the spiritual perils of polygamous indulgence. This caution is not echoed in Gideon's story, where no direct consequences of his many marriages are mentioned, leaving readers questioning the consistency of the narrative’s messages.
The teachings of Jesus in Matthew 19:4-6 further highlight the contradiction by emphasizing monogamy - the union of one man and one woman, rooted in the creation narrative. This ideal is a pronounced departure from Gideon’s lifestyle, aligning more with contemporary views on marriage.
Finally, the New Testament provides practical advice in 1 Timothy 3:2, recommending that a bishop should be the husband of one wife. This guideline not only stresses monogamy but underscores the moral and ethical expectations for spiritual leadership, a theme seemingly overlooked in Gideon’s account.
These discrepancies between Gideon’s life and other scriptural admonitions invite readers to ponder the complexities of biblical teachings on marriage, leadership, and personal choices, challenging us to reconcile these ancient narratives with enduring moral values.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Judges 8:30 | And Gideon had threescore and ten sons of his body begotten: for he had many wives. [of his...: Heb. going out of his thigh] |
| 2. | Deuteronomy 17:17 | Neither shall he multiply wives to himself, that his heart turn not away: neither shall he greatly multiply to himself silver and gold. |
| 3. | 1 Kings 11:3-4 | And he had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines: and his wives turned away his heart. |
| 4. | Matthew 19:4-6 | And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made [them] at the beginning made them male and female, |
| 5. | 1 Timothy 3:2 | A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; [of good...: or, modest] |