Daily Readings (Page 209)

Now Gaal too was disillusioned with Abimelech.  Why was Abimelech considered not a “true son of Shechem?”

Why did Jephthah make and keep his tragic vow to God? From this mistake what can we learn about making vows?

What expectations do Jephthah and the people of Gilead bring to their reconciliation?  Are these healthy expectations?  Why or why not?

How does Jephthah’s early life affect his relationship with God and other people?

This section describes Israel’s apostasy yet again.  V13 God said He would no longer save his people.  Yet when they showed repentance (v16) God once again responded. What reason is given in v16b?  What does this tell us about God’s character?

How was Abimelech’s death considered as shameful?  

What happened to Abimelech when he was unable to live up to the expectations of the Shechemites?

Look at Joshua 8:30-35 and Deuteronomy 11:26-32, what was it about Mount Gerizim that Abimelech’s words were seen as a curse?

How did Abimelech show his ambition to be king over all?

Who was Abimelech and what was he like?