The familiar cycle in judges continues.  Except this time before sending a judge God first sends a prophet.  The question is asked whether God will always just be merciful, no matter what?  But then what about his judgement and wrath against sin?  Or will he eventually just give up and abandon his people?  But then what about his mercy and love and the covenant he made with his people?

As we meet Gideon we see that God steps in to show them their need for repentance.  The cycle of idolatry, oppression and rescue will continue unless the people recognise their need to repent.  The cycle shows that they appear sorry for the consequences for their sin but not truly repentant.