Lessons From Judges 9: The Reign of Abimelech
This sermon explores the story of Abimelech, son of Gideon, who is often remembered among the judges but was not truly a judge appointed by God. Instead, Abimelech seized power for himself, and his life offers sobering lessons about leadership, loyalty, and faithfulness.
At the opening of Judges, God reminded Israel of His faithfulness: they had received land, houses, and crops that they had not labored for — gifts of grace. Yet they failed to drive out the pagan nations as commanded. Because of this, God declared He would no longer remove their enemies for them. Israel was left to face the consequences of compromise.
Into this setting, Abimelech rose. Born of a concubine from Shechem, he appealed to the people of that city: “Which is better for you — that 70 sons of Gideon rule over you, or that one rule over you?” They chose him, flattered by his connection to them. With their support, Abimelech murdered his seventy brothers, leaving only Jotham alive. Jotham pronounced a curse through the parable of the trees: the fruitful trees refused kingship, but the bramble accepted. Abimelech was that bramble — unfit to rule, destructive to all around him.
For three years he reigned, until strife broke out. In the end, Abimelech himself was killed when a woman dropped a millstone on his head from a tower — a humiliating end to his prideful reign.
From this account, the preacher drew three key lessons:
1. We must be prepared through God’s Word.
The men of Shechem followed Abimelech out of convenience, not conviction. Likewise, we are easily swayed unless we are grounded in Scripture. Peter warns us to add virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, and love, so we can resist false teachers (2 Peter 1–2).
2. Our loyalties reveal our hearts.
The people of Shechem shifted loyalties from Abimelech to Gaal with ease. Joshua’s challenge still stands: “Choose this day whom you will serve… but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15). Our ultimate loyalty must be to God, not to earthly leaders or comforts.
3. Each of us will be judged for our own decisions.
When many disciples turned away from Jesus after hard teachings, He asked the twelve, “Do you also want to go away?” (John 6:67). Peter’s answer rings true today: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” Our eternal destiny depends on how we respond to Christ.
The story of Abimelech warns against pride, misplaced loyalties, and fickle faith. But it also calls us to choose wisely, to stand firm, and to seek the true King — Jesus Christ.
Looking for a Church of Christ in Jacksonville, FL?
At Cypress Grove Church of Christ, we are committed to teaching the Bible clearly and practically. Even in difficult passages like Judges 9, God provides lessons for today — lessons about leadership, faith, and loyalty to Him.
If you’re seeking a place to grow in faith and truth, we invite you to join us this Sunday in Jacksonville.
