Jephthah, a rejected person, one who was unacceptable to others, was called by God and raised up as deliverer. Desperate for good leadership, the Israelites knew of the reputation of Jephthah as a mighty warrior and strong leader. So they sent a delegation to make a desperate appeal for him to become their commander. In response, Jephthah made a painful and bitter complaint against the leaders of Gilead: they had taken part in driving him away from his home and the inheritance that had been due him. Bitterness was bound to fill the heart of Jephthah against these leaders for their part in his mistreatment, his being exiled, and the threat against his life. He wanted to know why they had taken part in his brothers’ greedy attack against him. And now they were coming to him for help when they were in trouble. Hearing this bitter response, the elders became even more desperate. They replied that they were willing to lift the banishment permanently, and they would make him the ruler over all Gilead.
Becoming the commander-in-chief and the supreme leader of Gilead was not a political opportunity for Jephthah, but an occasion for trusting the LORD and serving the Israelites. Jephthah expressed faith in the LORD: it would be the LORD who would give him victory if he accepted the proposal. Jephthah was acknowledging his faith in the LORD and his dependence upon the LORD. The LORD Himself was working behind the scenes and calling Jephthah to serve Him and His people in a remarkable way. The New Testament makes it plain: Jephthah was not an opportunist, but a man of strong faith.
