1. Midian oppresses; a prophet rebukes

(1-10)

Israel did evil against God again. So God let the Midianites ravage their crops and livestock for 7 years. Israel even made cave shelters (2). Israel cried out to God. God sent them a prophet who gave them a history lesson about the Lord's deliverance from Egypt and his command not to worship other gods (8-10). But they didn't listen. That was the root reason for their misery.

2. The call of Gideon (11-24)

Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress to hide from Midian. The Lord's angel said, "The Lord is with you, mighty warrior." Gideon said, "Where are all his wonders? The Lord has abandoned us." The Lord said, "Go in the strength you have and save Israel...am I not sending you?" Though Gideon felt too weak and small, God said, "I will be with you." Gideon wanted a sign as proof. He prepared a goat and unleavened bread and the angel consumed it with fire from his staff. Gideon was afraid, but when he didn't die he built an altar called The Lord is Peace.