he delivers from, the oppressor. The Angel judged Israel disobedient, and declared that some nations would remain to test it. The Angel initiated Gideon’s judgeship—as it were, converted him. The Angel also announced Samson’s special birth. Throughout, Yahweh and his Angel are most concerned that Israel be about the business of becoming a people of God, a covenant community, a faithful nation.7 To accomplish this, Yahweh creates conflict between the Israelites and other peoples, his Angel announces
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