Ep 8. Gideon: The Liberator

The show Old Testament Scriptures takes a deep dive into the stories of the Bible's first part. In the eighth episode of its first season, viewers can expect to learn about the hero Gideon. The episode, titled "Gideon: The Liberator," recounts the story of a young Israelite who rose to lead the charge against their oppressors, the Midianites.

The episode begins with a brief introduction to the historical context and setting of the story. The Israelites had been living in the land of Canaan, but they had been oppressed by various neighboring peoples, including the Midianites. To escape the oppression, many Israelites moved to live in the mountains, and the neighboring Midianites were threatening their very survival.

As the episode progresses, viewers learn about the young Gideon. Gideon was a member of the Manasseh tribe and was living in the mountains with his family. He was hardly a hero at the outset of the story, described as a cowardly and timid young man who was afraid to stand up to the Midianites. However, an angel appeared to Gideon and informed him that he was chosen to lead his people to freedom.

Viewers watch as Gideon learns to trust in God and becomes a leader for his people. Gideon's first task is to destroy the altar of Baal, the god worshipped by the Midianites, which was located in his own town. Though Gideon was afraid, he stepped up and destroyed the altar, earning him the wrath of the Midianites and prompting them to prepare for battle against the Israelites.

The episode climaxes with the famous "fleece test." Gideon is still unsure of his ability to lead the charge, so he asks God for a sign. He lays out a fleece of wool, and asks that in the morning, the fleece be wet with dew while the ground around it remains dry. When this happens, he asks for the opposite - the fleece to be dry while the surrounding ground is wet. Both of these occurrences happen, and Gideon takes them as a sign that God is with him.

The following battle scene is suspenseful and exciting. Gideon leads his vastly outnumbered and outgunned army against the Midianites, but with God's help, they are victorious. Viewers see firsthand the ways in which Gideon's leadership has grown, and how his trust in God has helped him overcome his fears.

The episode ends with a reflection on the power of faith and the ways in which Gideon's faith helped him become a liberator for his people. The story of Gideon, as depicted in "Gideon: The Liberator," is a powerful reminder of how anyone can become a hero if they rely on their faith and trust in something greater than themselves.

Overall, viewers of Old Testament Scriptures season 1 episode 8, "Gideon: The Liberator," can expect an engaging and thrilling retelling of one of the most iconic stories of the Old Testament. Through its compelling storytelling, stunning visuals, and powerful message, the episode leaves a lasting impression on its viewers and serves as a reminder that faith can lead to great things.