“Now therefore give up the men, the worthless fellows in Gibeah, that we may put them to death and purge evil from Israel.” But the Benjaminites would not listen to the voice of their brothers, the people of Israel.” (Judges 20:13 ESV).
This verse captures a tragic turning point in Israel’s history. The rest of the tribes demanded justice against the “worthless fellows” (Literally, “sons of Belial”) in Gibeah whose actions resembled the depravity of Sodom. But instead of surrendering the guilty men and purging the evil, the tribe of Benjamin refused to listen. Their misplaced loyalty—to family, tribe, or reputation—was stronger than their commitment to God’s covenant. In doing so, they aligned themselves not only with sinners but with sin itself. The result was civil war and great national suffering.
We must be careful not to fall into the same trap. When we protect those close to us despite clear wrongdoing, we risk becoming complicit in their sin. Our first loyalty must always be to God’s holiness and truth. Righteousness cannot take a backseat to personal or political allegiance. If we excuse sin to preserve our comfort, image, or relationships, we forfeit the integrity of the body of Christ. As God’s people, we are called to stand for justice even when it costs us something. Let us ask ourselves: Are we protecting the guilty rather than confronting evil? Are we more afraid of offending people than grieving God?
PRAYER: Dear Lord, we confess that at times we have valued loyalty to people over loyalty to You. Forgive us for the times we have excused or ignored sin. Help us love righteousness more than comfort, truth more than appearances. Give us hearts that are sensitive to Your holiness and willing to confront evil with wisdom, humility, and grace. May we be a people that listens to Your voice and lives with integrity before You. In Jesus’ name, amen.