Judges 3:31 Commentary

Verse: "After him was Shamgar the son of Anath, which slew of the Philistines six hundred men with an ox goad: and he also delivered Israel."

Introduction

The narrative surrounding Judges 3:31 presents a significant yet often overlooked figure, Shamgar, in the context of Israel's deliverance from oppression. This verse encapsulates the essence of divine providence in raising unlikely saviors to deliver His people. In exploring this verse, we can draw insights from respected public domain commentaries such as those by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, each offering a unique perspective on the implications of Shamgar's actions and the theological themes inherent in the passage.

Shamgar: A Deliverer of Israel

Literary Context: In the book of Judges, we see a recurrent cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. Shamgar's mention here signifies the continuation of God's plan to rescue His people, showing that even in dire circumstances, He can use ordinary individuals for extraordinary purposes.

Comments from Public Domain Sources

Matthew Henry’s Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the unexpected nature of Shamgar's victory. He notes that Shamgar, identified as the son of Anath, was likely a farmer or someone from a rural background. The use of an "ox goad"—a simple farming tool—symbolizes the unlikely means through which God can grant victory. Henry writes, “It is not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.” This statement underlines the theological principle that divine strength often manifests through human weakness.

Albert Barnes’ Notes

Albert Barnes provides a historical context, explaining that the Philistines were a significant threat to Israel during this period, and Shamgar’s action is noteworthy for its sheer audacity and strength. Barnes highlights that Shamgar's slaughter of six hundred Philistines serves as confirmation of God’s power acting through an individual empowered by faith. He states, “This deliverance reveals the nature of true valor, which often lies in courage combined with reliance on divine assistance.” He underscores that Shamgar was not just a warrior but a servant of God who executed His judgment against Israel’s enemies.

Adam Clarke’s Commentary

Adam Clarke brings out the possible spiritual symbolism in Shamgar’s actions. He reflects on the ox goad being indicative of the tools of trade converted into weapons of warfare, signifying how God can take the mundane and transform it into means of spiritual warfare. Clarke comments that “the ox goad can represent the tools of our daily lives, which, when dedicated to God, can become instruments of deliverance.” This perspective speaks to the broader application for believers today: that even commonplace items or abilities can serve God’s purposes when infused with faith.

Theological Implications

Judges 3:31 invites further contemplation on several key theological themes:

• Divine Sovereignty: The verse affirms God's control over Israel’s history and His ability to provide deliverance through unexpected means.
• Human Agency: The role of Shamgar illustrates that God invites human participation in His salvific work. It invites believers to respond to divine prompting with courage.
• Faithfulness in Oppression: Shamgar's narrative emphasizes that amidst oppression, faithfulness to God can lead to deliverance. It encourages understanding that no situation is beyond God’s intervention.

Lessons for Today

The account of Shamgar provides significant lessons for pastors, students, and theologians, including:

• The Importance of Readiness: Shamgar was ready to act against the oppressor, highlighting the need for believers to be vigilant and prepared for action in the face of injustice.
• Confidence in God’s Power: The remarkable victory achieved with an ox goad serves as a testament to the truth that our limitations do not hinder God’s capability to accomplish His will.
• Embracing Our Role: Like Shamgar, believers today are called to embrace their unique gifts and circumstances as potential tools for God’s kingdom work.

Conclusion

Judges 3:31 encapsulates a brief yet profound moment in Israel's history, showcasing God’s provision through Shamgar. The shared insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke enrich our understanding of this text and inspire contemporary believers to acknowledge God’s sovereignty in their lives. As we reflect on Shamgar’s use of an ox goad, we are reminded that ordinary acts, when guided by divine purpose, can lead to extraordinary outcomes. In a world that often seems chaotic and tumultuous, this verse serves as a beacon of hope, calling forth the courage to act under God’s guidance.