Judges 9:22-41 When Justice Delays: Abimelech, Shechem, and the Sovereign Hand of God

Judges 9:22-41 When Justice Delays: Abimelech, Shechem, and the Sovereign Hand of God

Introduction: A new era is coming for Mexico’s powerful Sinaloa cartel in the wake of the arrest of Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, the last of the old-guard traffickers. Experts predict that his removal will usher in chaos—violence among rivals, younger and more brutal leaders, and destabilization across regions. For years, Zambada controlled the cartel with skill and influence. But even in power, judgment can come. The same is true in Judges 9, where Abimelech’s rise, reign, and eventual downfall show how God brings justice, even if it delays.

Outline:

  1. Verses 22–24 – The LORD pronounces His judgment
  2. Verses 25–29 – The opposition of Abimelech is identified
  3. Verses 30–41 – Abimelech fights to keep his kingdom

1. The Decision for Judgment

Abimelech ruled over Israel for three years (Judges 9:22), but his reign was built on a foundation of blood. He had murdered seventy of his brothers (Judges 9:5) and manipulated the people of Shechem to establish himself as king. After allowing this to go on for a time, the LORD sent an evil spirit between Abimelech and the leaders of Shechem, and discord began (Judges 9:23).

As readers, it may seem frustrating. Abimelech flourished despite his evil. From a human perspective, we may ask: why does the wicked prosper? (Psalm 94:3). Why does God allow evil to persist? But Scripture reminds us that God's justice is never absent—it is often simply delayed. The LORD was actively working through the discord to bring about judgment. Even if unseen at first, the plan was already in motion.

The Flourishing of the Wicked

Like Abimelech, many live in rebellion and still enjoy power and prosperity. But their end is certain. Job asked, "Why do the wicked live, reach old age, and grow mighty in power?" (Job 21:7). The psalmist cried out, “How long shall the wicked exult?” (Psalm 94:3). God's answer? Justice will come fully and finally when Christ returns.

2. A Possible Rod of Discipline

It seemed that Gaal, a newcomer to Shechem, might become the instrument of justice. The people of Shechem rejected Abimelech and put their confidence in Gaal (Judges 9:26). Like Abimelech before him, Gaal used bold speech to rally the city against the king (Judges 9:28–29). But unlike the first time, this rebellion failed. Zebul, a leader still loyal to Abimelech, warned him, and Abimelech prepared an ambush (Judges 9:30–33).

Abimelech chased Gaal out of the city, and his rebellion was crushed (Judges 9:40–41). It looked like evil had won again. The man who should have fallen remained in power.

3. Abimelech Fights to Keep His Throne

Though God had already declared judgment, it did not fall immediately. The people of Shechem had turned against Abimelech, but he still had power, information, and the will to strike first. He ambushed Gaal, exploited the situation, and held onto his authority a little longer.

This delay may frustrate readers. But here is where faith in God’s providence matters most. The fact that justice was not immediate does not mean it was forgotten. It simply had not arrived yet. In the following verses (Judges 9:42–57), the full collapse of Abimelech’s regime will come, in graphic and public form.

Does Justice Exist Now?

True justice, perfect and eternal, is not yet fully realized in this world. Injustice in the past, present, or future will be addressed completely on the Day of the Lord. Malachi foretells a day when evildoers will be reduced to ashes (Malachi 4:1–3). Jesus confirms that He will separate the righteous from the wicked (Matthew 25:31–46). This promise anchors our hope.

In the meantime, God’s patience is a door of mercy. We live in the window where repentance is still possible. The delay of justice is not injustice—it is divine grace. “The Lord is not slow… but patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish” (2 Peter 3:9).

Conclusion

  • The wicked may prosper, but only for a time.
  • God's justice never fails—it is fulfilled in the return of Christ.
  • Do not be discouraged by delays; instead, use this time to proclaim the gospel of mercy before the day of judgment arrives.

Scripture References

  • Job 21:7–16 – The wicked seem to flourish, but their prosperity is temporary.
  • Psalm 94:1–7 – A call for God’s justice when evildoers oppress and boast.
  • Amos 5:18–27 – The Day of the Lord is a time of justice, not comfort, for the unrepentant.
  • Proverbs 6:16–19 – Lists the actions that God hates, including shedding innocent blood.
  • Malachi 4:1–3 – The wicked will be judged, and the righteous will rejoice in God's justice.
  • Matthew 25:31–34, 41 – Christ will return to judge the world, separating the righteous from the wicked.
  • 2 Peter 3:8–10 – God’s patience is not slowness but an opportunity for repentance before the Day of the Lord.

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