NOTES for Jdg 10:1-18
Once again Israel has betrayed its Lord, and as a result the pagans are approaching once more. Again, after hearing the Lord’s stern rebuke, the people turn to Him for help. It is important to note that this time the people’s repentance contains an understanding of the justice of God’s reproach and a readiness to accept from Him any deserved punishment.
And the Lord, who has just said that He will no longer save those who constantly betray Him, turns toward the repentant Israelites. This is one of those places in the Old Testament where it is stated briefly but clearly that God’s love for people exceeds everything that people are capable of rendering to Him, and that His mercy can exceed His own justice.