It is hard to imagine a more obnoxious attitude than that displayed by the Ephraimites. They had reacted to Gideon in a similar way in the middle of his battle with Midian (Judges 8:1). Ephraim was always brave after the battle.

The Ephraimites are arrogant, critical, envious, and self-important. They are sure of their own rights but unwilling to accept their responsibilities. For 18 years they have done nothing to resist Ammon themselves. But now they come with petty complaints and outrageous threats (v. 1). They seem always ready to fight with their brothers, but never against the enemy. But Jephthah is not Gideon. At first he points out that he had in fact called them, and they had not come (vv. 2-3). But when the Ephraimites will not listen to logic or truth, he and his men can contain their anger no longer, and turn in fury (v. 4).

It is important to realise the kind of ignorance the Ephraimites represent. It was an ignorance of their God-given responsibility. They were happy gathering up the spoil and quick to defend their rights and privileges, but they had no taste for battle. God had called them to join in the fight against the people on the land, but Ephraim was only willing to stand back and criticise until the battle was won.

It is easy to slip into becoming an Ephraimite when it comes to understanding our God-given responsibilities. Are we more than willing to let other believers move out into the world, confront others with the gospel, get involved in Sunday school, do menial work, go out to the mission field, and engage in Christian service? Do we reserve the right to criticise from the sidelines, and even to condemn what they do? Are we critical of our brothers and sisters who are involved in confronting the enemy, but not ourselves? Does our prayer go something like this: ″Lord, use me in your work, but only in an advisory capacity!″?

The story is told of the man who came up to evangelist D. L. Moody and said, ″Mr. Moody, I don't like the way you preach the gospel.″ Moody said, ″You know, I'm always willing to learn. Tell me about the method you use.″ The man replied, ″I guess I don't really have one.″

″I'll tell you what,″ Moody said, ″I like the way I do it better than the way you don't do it.″

Let us beware the danger of becoming armchair generals; the church of Jesus Christ needs believers who are willing to take on their God-given responsibility to serve God and other believers. Let us not complain and criticise. Instead, let us lead by example, encouragement, and edification!