This research paper, written by Jacob Roylston at Reformed Theological Seminary – Charlotte for Dr. William Ross, examines the troubling narrative of Jephthah’s vow in Judges 11:29–40. Roylston focuses on the theological tension between the Spirit of the Lord’s empowerment and Jephthah’s subsequent rash promise, arguing that the account exposes Israel’s spiritual decay and the misuse of divine authority.
Through exegetical analysis of the Hebrew text, literary context, and canonical themes, the paper highlights how Jephthah’s vow demonstrates the moral confusion of Israel’s judges and the tragic consequences of attempting to secure divine favor through pagan-influenced sacrifice. Roylston shows that the passage ultimately points forward to the true deliverer—Christ—whose perfect obedience and sacrificial love stand in stark contrast to Jephthah’s folly.
Course and semester: OT5350 Joshua–Esther — Spring 2023
