READ JUDGES 12
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After successfully defeating the Ammonites, Jephthah faces opposition from the Ephraimites, who are surprised that he would venture into battle without their assistance, despite having previously called on them to join him with no response. Jephthah retaliates against the Ephraimites and devises a clever way to distinguish them using the Hebrew word "shibboleth." It appears that the Ephraimites spoke Hebrew with a distinct accent compared to the people of Gilead (similar to the difference between Spaniard Spanish and Latin Spanish). When asked to pronounce the word "shibboleth," their different pronunciation exposed their identity as Ephraimites.
The purpose of this passage is not to pass judgment on the ethical implications of Jephthah's actions towards the Ephraimites, but rather to present a historical account instead of expressing support. However, Jephthah's use of the shibboleth to distinguish the Ephraimites offers a valuable lesson.
If we assert a particular identity, there will be evident signs that signify this identity to others. In the past, circumcision served as a distinct marker, confirming that a Hebrew male belonged to the community of God. Similarly, the term "shibboleth" serves a comparable purpose to differentiate between those who belong to Ephraim and those who do not.
Identifying true Christians can be challenging, as many people profess to follow Jesus verbally but do not demonstrate their faith through their actions. What signs reveal our allegiance to a society that prioritizes individual desires over righteousness? In John 14:23-24, Jesus addresses this dilemma: "Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love Me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth Me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent Me."
Jesus indicates that the distinguishing characteristics of His disciples are evident through their actions and behaviors. Are you living in a manner that reflects your faith in Jesus? Are you identifiable as a follower of Jesus both to those around you and to God? Jephthah's analogy highlights the importance of reflecting the values of the Gospel in our lives. We should strive for our actions and words to clearly represent Jesus so that others may recognize Him through us.
QUESTIONS
1. Is it simple or challenging for you to identify who among you follows Jesus?
2. What distinguishing characteristics should differentiate followers of Jesus from others in the world?
3. If you provided someone with a list of these traits, could they observe your life and easily recognize you as a follower of Jesus?