Read Judges 6:11-27

Are You a Secret Disciple?

Gideon is among those names of the faithful listed in the Hebrews letter upon which the writer does not expound. However, the book of Judges gives us some insight into the faith of this man. He was called to lead the people of God and “save Israel from the hand of the Midianites” (Judges 6:16). Like many others who are called to greatness, Gideon resists at first, claiming, “Indeed my clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father’s house” (Judges 6:15). And yet, the Lord promises victory to Gideon. He says, “Surely I will be with you, and you shall defeat the Midianites as one man” (Judges 6:16).

Gideon, still not convinced, asks for a sign. He prepares an offering for the Angel of the Lord, and God causes fire to rise out of the rock and consume the meat and bread which were placed upon it.

Later that night, God commanded Gideon to tear down the altar of Baal which was constructed by his father, and to use that wood to build a new altar to the Lord. Gideon obeyed, but the inspired writer gives us a peek into the imperfect faith of this judge. “So Gideon took ten men from among his servants and did as the Lord had said to him. But because he feared his father’s household and the men of the city too much to do it by day, he did it by night” (Judges 6:27).

God had given Gideon a sign that He would be with him, and He had given him a promise that He would be with him but fear still dictated Gideon’s actions. Sure, he obeyed, but he did it when no one could see him, question him, or oppose him. Do we ever do this?

When invited to participate in some activity on Sunday morning that conflicts with the time of worship services, do you tell the truth as to why you can’t participate? Or do you pacify them with an excuse, such as, “That’s too early in the morning?” Or do you decide to go with your friends rather than worship?

Gideon did what was right, but did it under a cloak of darkness. In so doing, he could not influence anyone towards the truth. We cannot be secretive disciples. We must be followers of Jesus all the time, no matter who is watching!