JUDGES 12
The men of Ephraim could never rejoice in another’s victory as long as they were left out (Judg. 8). Jephthah was not as patient and tactful as Gideon, and the result was a civil war that took 42,000 lives. “See how great a forest a little fire kindles!” (
The word shibboleth is in the English dictionary and means “a test to determining if you belong.” If you do not conform exactly to what a group demands, you are rejected. Some Christians make these minor matters a test of spirituality and fellowship and bring division to the church.
We do not even know where Jephthah was buried! No matter; the Lord keeps the records, and this brave man will get His reward.