Joash's remarks leave the reader wondering whether Joash has become convinced of the folly of his pagan ways. It sounds as though he has drawn the correct theological conclusions from his son’s actions. As in the case of Elijah’s contest with the prophets of Baal at Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18:1–46), Gideon appears to have won this contest on behalf of Yahweh. But the questions are rhetorical, and the issues are left hanging. Only time will tell.
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31 But Joash said to all who stood against him, “Will you contend for Baal? Or will you save him? Whoever contends for him shall be put to death by morning. If he is a god, let him contend for himself, because his altar has been broken down.”