What is suggested by the progression across the three stages in the organization of Gideon’s army?

First, Gideon blows a trumpet, and then those closest to him, from the family of Abiezer, follow him. Second, Gideon sends messengers to the more distant circle, the tribe of Manasseh, and they also follow him. Third, he sends messengers to an even wider circle, to neighbouring tribes—Asher, Zebulun, Naphtali—and they also went up to meet him. It is as though Gideon’s confidence increases as the response to his call to join his army increases. Assis says, These verses…show Gideon’s successful assumption of the role of deliverer. He receives support from God and the people, and the people’s support gradually increases. On a parallel, as more soldiers join, Gideon’s actions are clearly less hesitant and more decisive. The impression received in these verses is that at the beginning of the battle Gideon has several factors that are important for success: divine assistance, the people’s support, and the confidence of the actual leader.¹

Judges 6:34–35 lead us to believe that Gideon will be an Othniel, Ehud, and Barak all rolled into one. Instead he proved to be even more cautious and reluctant than Barak.²