Judges

The Book of Judges recounts the history of Israel between the death of Joshua and the establishment of the monarchy, highlighting the cycle of Israel's sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance by various judges. One key verse, Judges 2:16, states, "Then the Lord raised up judges, who saved them out of the hands of these raiders."

---

Session 1: The Unfinished Conquest- Judges 1:1-2:5
— Printable Handout

Title: "Inheriting the Land, Facing the Challenge"

Focus: The initial failures of Israel to fully conquer Canaan and the consequences of incomplete obedience.

Purpose Statement: To understand that incomplete obedience to God's commands can lead to long-term spiritual and practical struggles.

READ: Judges 1:1-2:5

Audio: (NLT)

LEAD-IN QUESTIONS:

Why do you think the tribes of Israel struggled to drive out all the Canaanites? How does this relate to the challenges we face in our own spiritual lives today?

How does God's reminder of His covenant (Judges 2:1-3) relate to His faithfulness in our lives, even when we are unfaithful?

OVERVIEW:

Inheriting the Land, Facing the Challenge looks at the early days of Israel as they began to settle in Canaan. Even though God had given clear instructions, the people only did some of what they were told. They left behind some of the practices that could have helped protect them from future problems. As the NIV reminds us in Judges 1:1-2:5, incomplete obedience can lead to struggles that last for years. Reflecting on this, preacher Charles Spurgeon's idea rings true: “When we obey God little by little, we invite troubles that could have been prevented by complete trust.” This session sets the stage for understanding that every step of obedience matters.

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU:

It might be surprising to learn that even though Israel was chosen by God, their partial obedience left them vulnerable to later hardships. At first glance, one might think leaving out only a small part of God’s instructions wouldn’t have serious consequences. However, the scripture shows us that those small gaps can become serious problems later—like tiny leaks in a dam that eventually cause a flood. This teaching reminds us to look carefully at our own choices because even little decisions can lead to big outcomes.

CULTURE CONNECTION:

In today's fast-paced world, it is easy to think that doing just enough is good enough. Whether it’s rushing through homework or skipping over important details in a project, many of us face moments when we choose the “shortcut” path. The story from Judges reminds us that taking shortcuts or following only part of the plan can lead to unexpected difficulties down the road. By committing fully and doing things the right way—even when it's hard—we set ourselves up for success both at home and in our community.

DEVOTIONAL ALLEGORY: "The Unfinished Bridge"

In 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco was completed after four years of hard work. It stands as one of the greatest engineering achievements in history. But what if they had stopped halfway? Imagine if the workers had built the supports and half the roadway but never connected both sides. The bridge would be useless—a monument to unfinished work.

Israel faced a similar problem in the Book of Judges. God had given them the land of Canaan, but they didn’t finish the job. They stopped short of full obedience, leaving pockets of the enemy in place. Over time, these remaining groups became a constant problem, influencing Israel away from God and creating unnecessary struggles.

Like an unfinished bridge, incomplete obedience keeps us from fully experiencing God’s best for our lives. When we hold back—whether in surrendering sin, trusting God, or following His direction—we leave gaps that can weaken our faith. But the good news is, God is always ready to help us finish what we’ve started.

As we study Judges 1:1–2:5, let’s ask ourselves: Are there areas in our lives where we’ve settled instead of fully obeying? What “unfinished work” might God be calling us to complete?

SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from the Old Testament- Judges 1:1-2:5

→Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

→Obedient Initiative →Taking the first step with faith, as Judah did when seeking God's direction for battle. Modern believers act on God’s guidance, not passivity. →Judges 1:1–2

→God-Dependent Decision-Making →Judah asked, "Who shall go up first?" showing reliance on God for direction. Today’s lifestyle reflects humility and dependence on divine wisdom. →Judges 1:1

→Strategic Unity →Judah invited Simeon to join him, demonstrating cooperation. Believers today grow by partnering in faith-led missions, not isolating themselves. →Judges 1:3

→Resilience in Partial Victory →Even after success, some enemies remained. Spiritually mature people acknowledge progress but remain committed to complete obedience and growth. →Judges 1:19, 21, 27–36

→Respect for God's Presence →When the Angel of the Lord rebuked them for disobedience, the people wept and worshiped. Growth includes repentance and reverence in response to truth. →Judges 2:1–5

→Awareness of Compromise →The failure to drive out all the inhabitants shows the danger of compromise. Spiritually growing people learn to guard against small disobediences. →Judges 1:27–36; 2:1–3

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:

When we read about Israel’s struggles in Judges 1:1-2:5, we see an important lesson: every small part of God’s plan matters. Missing even a little bit of what God asks for can result in big challenges later on, much like how a tiny crack in a wall can eventually lead to a building’s collapse. This portion of scripture challenges us to examine our own lives. Are there times we’ve taken shortcuts or left things unfinished? The call is to listen closely to God’s guidance in every detail, trusting that full obedience builds a stronger, more secure life.

Beyond the immediate challenges, God’s plan is much larger than any one battle or moment of failure. He is teaching His people to learn from these setbacks so that they can grow stronger in faith. Just as making careful, complete choices leads to a more resilient life, our willingness to obey God completely—even when it seems difficult—can lead to lasting peace and success. In this way, the story of Israel’s incomplete conquest isn’t only a history lesson; it is a practical guide for how we approach our daily decisions.

QUICK QUIZ:

In what ways might a “little bit” of disobedience today lead to bigger challenges later on?

How can fully following God’s instructions—both big and small—influence our lives in school, at home, and in our community?

NOTEABLE QUOTES: on Incomplete Obedience and Spiritual Challenges

Rick Warren: "God's commands are not suggestions, they are instructions. Partial obedience is actually disobedience. When we choose to only follow God partially, we open ourselves up to spiritual compromise and long-term consequences that can affect not just ourselves, but generations to come."

Alistair Begg: "The narrative of Judges reveals a profound spiritual truth: our partial commitments create lasting challenges. Just as Israel failed to drive out all the inhabitants of the land, we too often leave 'pockets of resistance' in our spiritual lives—areas we're unwilling to fully surrender to God's transforming power."

N.T. Wright: "The story of Israel's incomplete conquest is a powerful metaphor for the Christian life. We are called to total transformation, not negotiated settlements with the 'inhabitants' of our old nature. Partial obedience is a form of spiritual stagnation, where we leave behind seeds of future conflict and compromise."

Key Verses Highlighting the Failure

1. Initial Success (Judges 1:1–10) “The Lord said, ‘Judah shall go up; I have given the land into their hands.’” (Judges 1:2)

Comment: Judah’s tribe initially follows God's command. They have victories (vv. 4–10), fulfilling God’s instruction in part. This shows a faithful beginning.

2. Failure to Drive Out Inhabitants (Judges 1:19–36)

Here is where the text repeatedly emphasizes tribal failures:

—Judah: “The Lord was with the men of Judah. They took possession of the hill country, but they were unable to drive the people from the plains, because they had iron chariots.” (Judges 1:19)

Comment: Though God promised victory, Judah’s fear of superior technology (iron chariots) led to pragmatic compromise over faith.

—Benjamin: “The Benjamites, however, did not drive out the Jebusites who were living in Jerusalem.” (Judges 1:21)

Comment: This marks the first full failure—no effort to drive them out, resulting in coexistence that God had forbidden (see Deut. 7:1–5).

—Manasseh, Ephraim, Zebulun, Asher, Naphtali, Dan (vv. 27–36): Each of these tribes is said to have not driven out the Canaanites, often allowing them to remain as forced labor:

“When Israel grew strong, they pressed the Canaanites into forced labor but never drove them out completely.” (Judges 1:28)

Comment: Israel replaced God’s command to destroy and remove the nations (Deut. 7:2) with economic benefit (forced labor). This reveals a shift from covenantal obedience to self-serving convenience.

God's Rebuke – Judges 2:1–5

“I brought you up out of Egypt... and said, ‘I will never break my covenant with you, and you shall not make a covenant with the people of this land, but you shall break down their altars.’ Yet you have disobeyed me. Why have you done this?” (Judges 2:1–2)

Theological Significance:

God’s faithfulness (“I will never break My covenant”) is contrasted with Israel’s unfaithfulness.

The root failure is theological: they broke covenant by coexisting and making peace with pagan cultures, which inevitably led to idolatry.

“Therefore I also said, ‘I will not drive them out before you; they will become traps for you, and their gods will become snares to you.’” (Judges 2:3)

Consequence: God honors their disobedience by withdrawing His aid—a form of judgment and discipline.

Theological Commentary on Israel’s Failure

1. Partial Obedience = Disobedience

• Israel did some of what God commanded, but selectively.

• The text presents partial conquest as covenant unfaithfulness.

2. Fear and Pragmatism Over Faith

• Choosing safety (Judah) or economic benefit (forced labor) over radical obedience shows a heart drifting from dependence on God.

3. Spiritual Compromise

• Allowing the nations to remain led to spiritual syncretism in future chapters—worshiping Baal, forsaking Yahweh.

• This is the root sin Judges will keep revisiting.

Emotional and Liturgical Response (Judges 2:4–5)

“The people wept aloud... and they called that place Bokim (weeping).”

• There is a moment of remorse, but the cycle of disobedience begins anew shortly after.

• True repentance is not just sorrow but turning back fully to covenant faithfulness—which Israel fails to do consistently.

Results

Israel did not finish the conquest because of:

• Incomplete obedience (failure to drive out),

• Spiritual compromise (coexistence and covenants with Canaanites),

• Pragmatic rebellion (using forced labor for gain).

God’s response in Judges 2:1–5 is a covenant lawsuit—He reminds Israel of His faithfulness and indicts them for theirs. Theologically, this early failure explains the chaotic downward spiral of the rest of the book of Judges, and it underscores the need for a faithful, God-fearing king—which ultimately points ahead to the messianic hope.

CROSS-REFERENCE:

Obedience and Blessing

1 John 2:3-6 (NIV): "We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. Whoever says, 'I know him,' but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them."

Spiritual Warfare

Ephesians 6:10-12 (NIV): "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood..."

Overcoming Compromise

2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (NIV): "For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds."

Discussion Questions:

Personal Barriers

Question: What "cities" or areas of your life have you not fully surrendered to God?

Commentary: This question helps participants reflect on personal spiritual territories where they might be resisting complete transformation. Encourage vulnerability and share how God's grace covers our imperfect journeys.

Generational Patterns

Question: How have you seen incomplete obedience impact families or communities across generations?

Commentary: This prompts a deeper look at how spiritual compromises can create ongoing challenges. Invite participants to share wisdom from their life experiences about the importance of spiritual integrity.

God's Faithfulness

Question: Despite Israel's failures, God remained faithful. How have you experienced God's continued love even when you've fallen short?

Commentary: This question shifts the focus from guilt to grace. Encourage stories of redemption, highlighting that God's love is not dependent on our perfect performance.

Final Reflection:

Remember, God's call is not about perfection, but about a willing heart. Each step of obedience, no matter how small, matters to Him.

Session 2: The Cycle Begins: Othniel and Ehud- Judges 2:6-3:31
— Printable Handout

Title: "Rising and Falling: The First Deliverers"

Focus: The pattern of Israel's sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance, exemplified by Othniel and Ehud.

Purpose Statement: To recognize the cyclical nature of sin and redemption in Israel's history and to see God's consistent mercy.

READ: Judges 2:6-3:31

Audio: (NLT)

LEAD-IN QUESTIONS:

What does the recurring cycle in Judges 2:11-19 reveal about human nature? How do we see this cycle at work in our own lives or in society today?

What do Othniel's and Ehud's stories teach us about God's use of unlikely individuals to accomplish His purposes?

OVERVIEW:

After Joshua’s death, Israel quickly forgot the Lord’s commands and began worshiping the gods of the nations around them. This led to a cycle that repeated throughout the book of Judges: Israel sinned, they were oppressed by their enemies, they cried out to God, and God raised up a judge to deliver them. Othniel, the first judge, set a precedent for this cycle, and Ehud, the left-handed warrior, continued the pattern.

This pattern of spiritual highs and lows wasn’t just a problem for Israel—it’s a human problem. We turn to God in desperation, but once things get better, we drift away. Yet, God’s mercy remains constant. As 2 Timothy 2:13 reminds us:
"If we are faithless, he remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself."

One preacher put it this way: "The book of Judges is not about the failure of God, but the failure of man. And yet, it’s also a book about the faithfulness of God." — Adrian Rogers

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU:

One surprising detail in this passage is that Ehud was left-handed (Judges 3:15). This may not seem important at first, but in ancient culture, being left-handed was often seen as a disadvantage. Many scholars believe that Ehud may have been from the tribe of Benjamin, which ironically means “son of the right hand.” Yet, God used what others might have considered a weakness to bring deliverance to Israel.

This shows that God can use what the world sees as insignificant or weak for His purposes. It echoes what Paul later writes in 1 Corinthians 1:27: "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong."

CULTURE CONNECTION:

We often get stuck in cycles just like the Israelites. Maybe we promise to make better choices, break bad habits, or strengthen our faith—only to fall back into old patterns when life gets comfortable. This passage reminds us that when we cry out to God, He hears us and provides a way forward. Just as God raised up deliverers for Israel, He has provided Jesus as the ultimate deliverer to break the cycle of sin in our lives.

DEVOTIONAL ALLEGORY: "The Revolving Door"

Have you ever walked through a revolving door? You take a step, push forward, and before you know it, you’re back where you started. Some people even get stuck going in circles, never quite making it out.

Israel’s history in the Book of Judges was like a revolving door. They followed God for a while, but then they drifted into sin. That led to trouble—oppression by enemy nations. Eventually, they cried out to God, and He sent a deliverer to rescue them. But soon after, they fell back into the same sinful patterns, and the cycle started all over again.

Othniel and Ehud were two of the first judges God used to break this cycle. When Israel repented, God was faithful to raise up leaders to rescue them. But the real issue wasn’t just the enemies around them—it was the sin inside them. And unless their hearts truly changed, the cycle would continue.

We can see this same pattern in our own lives. We struggle with the same sins, ask God for help, experience His mercy, and then sometimes fall right back into old habits. But just like with Israel, God never gives up on us. His mercy is greater than our failures, and He is always ready to help us break free from the cycle.

Are there areas where you feel stuck in a spiritual "revolving door"? How can you rely on God’s strength to walk in lasting obedience instead of falling back into old patterns?

SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from the Old Testament- Judges 2:6-3:31

→Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

→Faithfulness Amid Forgetfulness →Israel forgot the Lord after Joshua’s generation. Today’s believers grow by remembering and remaining faithful despite cultural drift. →Judges 2:10–13

→Godly Sorrow Leads to Renewal →When Israel cried out to the Lord, He raised up deliverers. Growth includes turning back to God with genuine repentance, not just regret. →Judges 2:18; 3:9, 15

→Spirit-Empowered Leadership →Othniel was empowered by the Spirit to lead and judge. True spiritual growth today includes depending on the Holy Spirit for strength and direction. →Judges 3:10

→Courage in Calling →Ehud risked his life to confront evil. Growth includes stepping boldly into uncomfortable or dangerous situations when led by God. →Judges 3:16–22

→Strategic Wisdom →Ehud used wise strategy, not brute force. Spiritual maturity involves using godly wisdom and discernment in handling challenges. →Judges 3:19–23

→Deliverance Brings Peace →After Othniel and Ehud, the land had rest. A spiritually growing person recognizes God’s deliverance and lives in the peace it brings. →Judges 3:11, 30

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:

The story of Othniel and Ehud reminds us that human nature hasn’t changed much. We forget God when things are good, fall into trouble, and only then turn back to Him. Yet, God is always ready to respond when we cry out to Him. He is not distant or indifferent—He is a God of mercy, always willing to bring us back.

This cycle in Judges also points us to the larger story of redemption. Israel needed temporary deliverers, but ultimately, they needed a permanent one. Jesus Christ is the final and ultimate judge who breaks the cycle of sin for good. Unlike the judges of Israel, who only saved for a time, Jesus offers salvation that lasts forever.

QUICK QUIZ: DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

What patterns do you see in your own life that resemble the cycle in Judges? How can you break those patterns through faith?

Ehud’s left-handedness was seen as a weakness, but God used it for victory. What are some "weaknesses" in your life that God could use for His glory?

NOTEABLE QUOTES:

C.S. Lewis
"The whole of Christianity is a battle, and once you have recognized that, you see the world with new eyes. It is not just a series of individual events but a cosmic battle in which humanity plays a key role. The heart of the story is not that you are right or wrong, but that God, through His mercy, continues to reach down to deliver you, even when you are in rebellion." — Mere Christianity

This quote speaks to the recurring nature of sin and redemption, emphasizing the cosmic struggle between good and evil and God’s ongoing mercy to redeem fallen humanity.

Max Lucado
"God has always been in the business of restoration. His pattern is to take what is broken and make it beautiful again. But it’s a cycle we see repeated: the breaking, the confession, and the restoration. The people of Israel knew this pattern well—when they turned from God, they suffered; but when they repented, God restored them. This was not just true for Israel, but for us as well." — Grace: More Than We Deserve, Greater Than We Imagine

Lucado captures the essence of the repeated cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance, showing God's merciful restoration, which mirrors the experiences of the Israelites under Othniel and Ehud's deliverance.

Tim Keller
"The Bible is the story of God's pursuit of His people, and Israel’s cycles of sin and repentance show us the ongoing story of grace. God does not leave His people in their sin; He pursues them relentlessly. Othniel and Ehud’s deliverances point to a larger narrative—God’s unyielding mercy, which pursues us even when we fail." — The Prodigal God: Recovering the Heart of the Christian Faith

Keller’s reflection speaks to the broader redemptive story, emphasizing the constant pursuit of God’s mercy throughout Israel’s history, as exemplified by the judges, and reminding us of His faithfulness in the face of repeated human failure.

KEY POINTS to Reflect On:

Generational Spiritual Drift

Verse: Judges 2:10-12

Point: Spiritual legacy is not automatic; each generation must choose to follow God

Reflection: How do we ensure our faith is passed down meaningfully?

Discussion Prompt: Share a story about someone who helped strengthen your faith during a challenging time.

God's Persistent Mercy

Verse: Judges 2:16

Point: Even when we fail repeatedly, God continues to provide rescue and hope

Reflection: God's love is not dependent on our perfect performance

Discussion Prompt: Describe a time when you experienced God's unexpected grace in your life.

Unlikely Deliverers

Verse: Judges 3:15-30

Point: God uses ordinary people in extraordinary ways

Reflection: Ehud's creativity and courage show that God can work through anyone

Discussion Prompt: Have you ever felt unqualified but still sensed God calling you to something?

CROSS-REFERENCE:

God's Enduring Mercy

Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV): "Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."

Generational Faith

2 Timothy 1:5 (NIV): "I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also."

God Using the Unexpected

1 Corinthians 1:27-29 (NIV): "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him."

Discussion Questions:

Spiritual Patterns

Question: In what ways do you see the cycle of struggle and redemption repeating in your own life?

Commentary: Encourage participants to share honestly about their spiritual journeys. Help them recognize that struggling doesn't mean failure, but an opportunity for growth and God's intervention.

Learning from Past Generations

Question: What spiritual lessons did you learn from your parents or grandparents that still guide you today?

Commentary: This question honors the wisdom of seniors while exploring how faith is transmitted. Invite stories that highlight both challenges and moments of spiritual insight.

God's Unexpected Rescue

Question: Can you recall a time when God worked in a completely unexpected way in your life?

Commentary: Focus on stories of surprise, highlighting how God often works outside our expectations. Emphasize that God's methods are creative and not limited by our understanding.

Final Reflection:

God's love is a constant, even when we are not. His mercy is renewed each day, offering us hope and a fresh start.

Session 3: Deborah and Barak: A Woman of Courage- Judges 4:1-5:31
— Printable Handout

Title: "A Prophetess and a Reluctant Warrior"

Focus: God's use of Deborah, a prophetess, and Barak, a reluctant warrior, to deliver Israel from Jabin and Sisera.

Purpose Statement: To appreciate God's ability to use both men and women in leadership and to understand the importance of obedience in the face of fear.

READ: Judges 4:1-5:31

Audio: (NLT)

LEAD-IN QUESTIONS:

What qualities made Deborah an effective leader? How does her story challenge traditional views of leadership?

How does Barak's initial reluctance and eventual obedience relate to our own struggles with faith and courage?

OVERVIEW:

The story of Deborah and Barak in Judges 4–5 is one of courage, obedience, and unexpected leadership. Deborah, a prophetess and judge of Israel, steps into a leadership role during a time of oppression under King Jabin of Canaan and his powerful commander, Sisera. When God commands Barak to lead Israel’s army against Sisera, he hesitates and refuses to go without Deborah. Because of this, Deborah prophesies that victory will come, but the final blow will be delivered by a woman, not Barak.

This passage highlights God’s ability to use anyone—male or female, courageous or hesitant—to fulfill His plans. Deborah stands out as a woman of faith who leads with wisdom, while Barak’s story reminds us of the importance of trusting God fully. Their victory, ultimately sealed by Jael’s bold action, is a testament to God's power over Israel’s enemies.

Quote: "The Lord announces the word, and the women who proclaim it are a mighty throng." – Psalm 68:11 (NIV)

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU:

One surprising aspect of this passage is that God chooses a woman, Deborah, as both a prophetess and judge in a time when leadership was typically reserved for men. This challenges common assumptions about biblical leadership roles. Additionally, Barak, the military leader, hesitates and insists that Deborah go with him into battle. Because of this, Deborah prophesies that a woman—not Barak—will deliver the final victory.

This comes true when Jael, another woman, kills Sisera by driving a tent peg through his head while he sleeps (Judges 4:21). This unexpected twist reinforces the idea that God can use anyone—no matter their gender, status, or background—to accomplish His purposes.

CULTURE CONNECTION:

Today, we often struggle with fear, hesitation, or doubt when God calls us to step into leadership or difficult situations. Like Barak, we may be reluctant to act unless we have support. Like Deborah, we may be called to encourage and lead others with faith. This story reminds us that God doesn’t require us to be fearless—He simply calls us to trust Him and obey. In a world where leadership can be contested, Deborah’s example shows us that godly wisdom and faith are more important than position or gender.

SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from the Old Testament- Judges 4:1-5:31

→Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

→Leadership Without Limits →Deborah led Israel with wisdom and spiritual authority. Growth today includes breaking cultural barriers to fulfill God’s calling boldly. →Judges 4:4–5

→Obedient Collaboration →Barak obeyed God with Deborah by his side. Spiritually growing people recognize the value of teamwork and spiritual covering. →Judges 4:6–9

→Courage in the Face of Oppression →Israel faced a powerful enemy, but courage rooted in God brought victory. Growth means trusting God in overwhelming battles. →Judges 4:13–16

→God Uses the Willing →Jael, not a warrior, was used to defeat Sisera. Spiritual growth includes readiness to act, no matter how ordinary we may seem. →Judges 4:17–22

→Celebrate God’s Victory →Deborah and Barak sang a song of praise. Mature believers remember to glorify God after deliverance, not just during the battle. →Judges 5:1–3

→Recognize God’s Sovereignty →The song reflects how the Lord orchestrated nature and events for His purposes. Growth includes seeing God's hand in every detail of life. →Judges 5:4–5, 20–21

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:

The story of Deborah and Barak teaches us that God’s plans often unfold in unexpected ways. He calls both men and women to serve Him, sometimes in ways that defy cultural norms or personal expectations. Deborah’s leadership and faith inspire us to step up with courage, while Barak’s reluctance reminds us that hesitation can sometimes shift the way God’s plan unfolds.

This passage also emphasizes that victory belongs to God. While Deborah prophesies, Barak fights, and Jael delivers the final blow, it is ultimately God who orchestrates the events that lead to Israel’s deliverance. This is a powerful reminder that no matter how daunting our challenges may seem, God is in control. Our role is to listen, obey, and trust that He will guide us to victory.

DEVOTIONAL ALLEGORY: "The Reluctant General and the Brave Nurse"

During the Civil War, a woman named Clara Barton made a name for herself—not as a soldier, but as a battlefield nurse. While many men hesitated to rush into danger, Clara ran toward it, tending to the wounded under fire. She wasn’t a general, but she had the courage of one. Her work eventually led to the founding of the American Red Cross, saving countless lives.

In Judges 4, we see a similar situation. Israel was oppressed by King Jabin, and God called Deborah—a prophetess and judge—to lead. But Barak, the military commander, hesitated. He wouldn’t go into battle unless Deborah went with him. Because of his reluctance, God gave the honor of defeating Sisera, the enemy commander, to another woman—Jael—who finished the battle in an unexpected way.

God often calls unlikely people to step up. Sometimes, like Barak, we hesitate because of fear. Other times, like Deborah, we stand firm in faith. And sometimes, like Jael, we find ourselves in a moment where courage is needed, even if we never expected to be in that position.

God doesn’t choose people based on their strength—He looks for willing hearts. Where might God be calling you to step forward, even if you feel unqualified or afraid? Will you respond with courage like Deborah and Jael, or will fear hold you back like Barak?

QUICK QUIZ: (Discussion Questions)

Why do you think Barak hesitated to go into battle without Deborah? How do we sometimes hesitate when God calls us to something?

Deborah, Barak, and Jael each played a different role in God’s victory. What does this teach us about the different ways God uses people to accomplish His plans?

NOTEABLE QUOTES:

C.S. Lewis
"Courage is not simply one of the virtues, but the form of every virtue at the testing point. It is that which makes the difference between acting rightly in the face of fear and retreating into despair. Deborah was a woman of courage not because she was free of fear, but because she was willing to act faithfully, even in the most challenging circumstances." — The Problem of Pain

Lewis highlights the idea that true courage is not the absence of fear but the willingness to obey and act in the face of it. This mirrors Deborah's leadership, where she obeyed God’s calling despite the challenges.

Max Lucado
"God can use anyone, regardless of their past or their fears. Deborah’s leadership wasn't based on her strength or abilities, but on her willingness to trust God. And when Barak, though a warrior, hesitated, it was Deborah’s faith and courage that moved him forward. In every situation, God desires obedience over perfection, and He can use us if we are willing to step out in faith."
— You Are Never Alone

Lucado emphasizes God's ability to use both men and women in leadership, underscoring that obedience, rather than strength or perfection, is key. Deborah’s example shows that God calls those who are willing, regardless of gender or fear.

Tim Keller
"God’s work is not limited to the powerful or the brave; He uses the willing and the obedient. Deborah's courage as a prophetess was not in her own strength but in her submission to God’s calling. Barak, on the other hand, shows us that even a reluctant leader can be used by God, as long as they choose obedience over fear. It’s the posture of our heart that matters." — God's Wisdom for Navigating Life

Keller’s reflection aligns with the idea that both men and women can be used in leadership roles by God, and it’s the heart of obedience, rather than personal prowess, that makes one effective in God's work.

KEY POINTS to Reflect On:

Unexpected Leadership

Verse: Judges 4:4-5

Point: God chooses leaders based on character and faithfulness, not traditional expectations

Reflection: Leadership is about spiritual strength, not just gender or social status

Discussion Prompt: Share a time when someone unexpected showed remarkable leadership in your life or community.

Overcoming Fear with Faith

Verse: Judges 4:8-9

Point: Barak's hesitation reveals human weakness, but God's plan remains unchanged

Reflection: God can work through our limitations and uncertainties

Discussion Prompt: Describe a moment when you felt afraid but stepped forward in faith anyway.

God's Surprising Methods

Verse: Judges 4:21

Point: God uses unexpected people and methods to accomplish His purposes

Reflection: Divine victory often looks different from human expectations

Discussion Prompt: Have you ever seen God work in a completely unexpected way?

CROSS-REFERENCE:

Leadership Beyond Expectations

Galatians 3:28 (NIV): "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."

Courage in Weakness

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (NIV): "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me."

God's Unconventional Choices

1 Corinthians 1:25 (NIV): "For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength."

Discussion Questions:

Breaking Barriers

Question: How have you seen traditional leadership roles challenged or transformed in your lifetime?

Commentary: Encourage participants to reflect on changes they've witnessed in church, community, and society. Highlight how God values character and faithfulness over societal expectations.

Personal Limitations

Question: When have you felt unqualified for a task God seemed to be calling you to do?

Commentary: Create a safe space for sharing vulnerabilities. Emphasize that God's calling often comes with His enabling power, not our own sufficiency.

Unexpected Heroes

Question: Can you share a story of someone who made a significant difference despite seeming unlikely or overlooked?

Commentary: This question celebrates how God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things. Invite stories that showcase unexpected courage and faithfulness.

Final Reflection:

God's power is not limited by our perceived weaknesses. He delights in using ordinary people to do extraordinary things.

Session 4: Gideon's Hesitation and Victory- Judges 6:1-7:25
— Printable Handout

Title: "From Fear to Faith: Gideon's Test"

Focus: Gideon's initial doubts and God's patient guidance, leading to a miraculous victory with a small army.

Purpose Statement: To learn that God can use our weaknesses for His glory and to trust in His power, not our own.

READ: Judges 6:1-7:25

Audio: (NLT)

LEAD-IN QUESTIONS:

Why did Gideon repeatedly ask for signs? What does this teach us about dealing with doubt?

What is the significance of God reducing Gideon's army? How does this illustrate God's desire for us to rely on Him?

OVERVIEW:

Gideon’s story is one of transformation—from a fearful man hiding in a winepress to a bold leader who trusts God for victory. When Israel falls into oppression under the Midianites, God calls Gideon to deliver His people. But Gideon struggles with doubt and insecurity, questioning whether God is truly with Israel. Through a series of signs, including the famous fleece test, God patiently reassures him.

Gideon eventually steps out in faith, leading an army of just 300 men against a vastly larger Midianite force. By using an unusual battle strategy—trumpets, torches, and clay jars—God proves that victory comes not through human strength but through divine power. This story reminds us that our weaknesses don’t disqualify us from God’s calling. Instead, they allow His glory to shine even brighter.

Quote: "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'" – 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV)

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU:

One surprising element of Gideon’s story is how patient God is with Gideon’s doubts. Unlike other biblical figures who are rebuked for questioning God, Gideon receives multiple reassurances. He asks for a sign not once but twice with the fleece—first asking for dew to appear only on the fleece, then for it to appear everywhere except on the fleece (Judges 6:36–40).

Rather than condemning Gideon’s hesitation, God meets him where he is. This shows that God understands our fears and is willing to strengthen our faith step by step. His patience with Gideon is a reminder that we don’t have to be fearless to follow God—we just need to trust Him enough to take the next step.

CULTURE CONNECTION:

Many people today struggle with self-doubt, wondering if they are truly capable of doing what God has called them to do. Like Gideon, we may feel too weak, too unqualified, or too afraid. But God often chooses the least likely people to accomplish His greatest work.

This story challenges us to stop measuring our abilities by the world’s standards and start relying on God’s power. Whether it’s leading a small group, sharing our faith, or stepping into a difficult situation, our confidence should come from knowing that if God calls us, He will equip us.

DEVOTIONAL ALLEGORY: "The Farmer Who Became a General"

During World War II, a man named Audie Murphy wanted to serve his country, but no one believed in him. He was small, underweight, and looked too young. The military initially rejected him, but Murphy didn’t give up. He eventually enlisted, and despite his humble beginnings, he became one of the most decorated soldiers in American history, displaying incredible bravery in battle.

Gideon had a similar story. When God called him to lead Israel against the Midianites, Gideon wasn’t a mighty warrior—he was threshing wheat in hiding, afraid of the enemy. He doubted himself, questioned God, and even asked for multiple signs before he would take action. But God didn’t choose Gideon for his strength—He chose him to show His own power. With only 300 men, Gideon defeated an army of thousands, proving that victory comes from the Lord, not human ability.

Like Gideon, we often feel unqualified or too weak for what God calls us to do. But God doesn’t see us for what we are—He sees us for what we can become with His strength.

Are there areas in your life where fear is holding you back? How can you trust God to turn your weakness into victory?

SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from the Old Testament- Judges 6:1-7:25

→Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

→Honest Doubt, Faithful Response →Gideon questioned God but still listened and acted. Growth includes bringing doubts to God and allowing Him to build trust over time. →Judges 6:12–17

→Worship Before the Battle →Gideon built an altar before he ever fought a battle. Spiritually mature people worship God in preparation, not just in celebration. →Judges 6:24

→Obedience in Private First →Gideon tore down the altar to Baal at night. Growth often begins with private obedience before public action. →Judges 6:25–27

→Seeking Confirmation Humbly →Gideon asked for signs (fleece), not out of arrogance but a desire to be sure. Growing believers seek God's assurance in humility and faith. →Judges 6:36–40

→God’s Power Through Weakness →God reduced Gideon’s army to 300 so victory would clearly be His. Spiritual growth means relying on God's power, not numbers or strength. →Judges 7:2–7

→Encouraged by God’s Voice →God gave Gideon encouragement through the dream of an enemy soldier. Growth includes recognizing when God speaks through unexpected sources. →Judges 7:13–15

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:

Gideon’s journey from fear to faith shows us that God doesn’t require us to have unshakable confidence—He simply asks us to trust Him. Gideon’s victory was never about military strength; it was about God demonstrating His power through human weakness.

The same is true in our lives. When we feel small, outnumbered, or uncertain, God reminds us that He is the one fighting for us. He takes our doubts and turns them into faith, our weaknesses into strengths, and our small steps of obedience into victories far beyond what we could achieve on our own. If God could use a fearful man hiding in a winepress to defeat an entire army, He can certainly use us for His purposes today.

QUICK QUIZ:

Why do you think God reduced Gideon’s army from 32,000 to just 300 men? What does this teach us about trusting God?

Gideon asked for multiple signs before obeying. Have you ever struggled to trust God’s direction? How does this story encourage you in times of doubt?

NOTEABLE QUOTES:

John Piper

"God delights to use weak people, people who are willing to admit their inadequacies, in order to display His great strength. Gideon is a model of how God works: He does not choose the strong, the confident, or the self-sufficient to do His mighty works. Rather, He chooses the fearful and the weak so that the glory of victory will be attributed to Him alone. Gideon’s army, reduced from thousands to just three hundred, is a testimony to the fact that God’s power is made perfect in our weakness. Our hesitation, our fear, our doubts—these are not disqualifications in God’s kingdom; rather, they become the very means by which His grace shines brightest." — Desiring God

Piper emphasizes that God delights in using the weak and the fearful, just as He used Gideon. Gideon’s weakness was the very opportunity for God’s power to be demonstrated, and Piper points out that in our own lives, God’s strength is most evident when we recognize our limitations.

A.W. Tozer

"The Christian's walk with God is often a journey of doubt turned into faith, of hesitation turned into trust. Gideon’s story is a beautiful example of this process. God is patient with our weaknesses, just as He was with Gideon. Though Gideon began in fear and doubt, he was transformed by God’s presence and word. The victory that came was not because of Gideon’s strength but because of God’s sovereign power. We often feel inadequate to do the things God calls us to, but in those very moments, God is shaping us and preparing us for a victory that will bring glory to Him alone. It is not the size of the army but the presence of God that ensures victory." — The Pursuit of God

Tozer reflects on the journey from doubt to faith, seeing Gideon’s story as a model for our own lives. He highlights how God’s patience with our fears and doubts is instrumental in shaping us into people who can trust in God’s strength, not our own.

Joyce Meyer

"Gideon’s story is a reminder that God will never ask us to do something without giving us the strength and guidance to complete it. We may feel weak or unqualified, just like Gideon did, but God uses our fears and weaknesses as tools to bring about His purposes. What seems like an impossible task to us is an opportunity for God to show His greatness. The smaller the army, the bigger the miracle. God doesn’t need our strength; He needs our obedience. When we step out in faith, trusting in His power, He will always come through for us." — Power Thoughts

Meyer emphasizes the importance of obedience despite our feelings of inadequacy. She points out that God often works through our weaknesses, and His power is magnified when we trust in Him, even in situations that seem impossible.

KEY POINTS to Reflect On:

Acknowledging Our Weakness

Verse: Judges 6:15

Point: God often chooses the least likely people to demonstrate His power

Reflection: Our limitations are opportunities for God's strength to shine

Discussion Prompt: Share a time when you felt inadequate, but God showed up in an unexpected way.

Seeking Confirmation

Verse: Judges 6:36-40

Point: God's patience with our doubts and need for reassurance

Reflection: It's okay to seek God's guidance, even when we're unsure

Discussion Prompt: Describe a moment when you asked God for clear direction in your life.

Victory Through Surrender

Verse: Judges 7:2

Point: God reduces our resources to increase our dependence on Him

Reflection: True strength comes from trusting God, not our own abilities

Discussion Prompt: How have you experienced God working most powerfully when you felt most weak?

CROSS-REFERENCE:

God's Power in Weakness

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (NIV): "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me."

Trusting God's Guidance

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV): "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

God's Unexpected Methods

1 Corinthians 1:27-29 (NIV): "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong... so that no one may boast before him."

Discussion Questions:

Personal Doubts

Question: When have you felt too small or inadequate to make a difference?

Commentary: Create a safe space for sharing vulnerabilities. Emphasize how God delights in using ordinary people for extraordinary purposes. Encourage participants to see their doubts as opportunities for growth.

Stepping Out in Faith

Question: Can you recall a time when you took a step of faith, even when everything seemed impossible?

Commentary: Invite stories of courage and trust. Help participants recognize how God works when we're willing to move beyond our comfort zones.

Recognizing God's Provision

Question: How has God shown up in your life in ways you never expected?

Commentary: Focus on testimonies of God's unexpected provision and guidance. Highlight how God often works differently from our human expectations.

Final Reflection:

God is not limited by our fears or weaknesses. He delights in showing His power through those who are willing to trust Him completely.

Session 5: Gideon's Downfall and Abimelech's Wickedness- Judges 8:1-9:57
— Printable Handout

Title: "The Trap of Pride: Gideon's Legacy and Abimelech's Treachery"

Focus: Gideon's lapse into idolatry and the tragic story of Abimelech's ambition and violence.

Purpose Statement: To understand the dangers of pride and the consequences of straying from God's ways.

READ: Judges 8:1-9:57

Audio: (NLT)

LEAD-IN QUESTIONS:

How did Gideon's actions after his victory contradict his earlier reliance on God? What lessons can we learn from this?

What does Abimelech's story teach us about the corrupting nature of power?

OVERVIEW:

Gideon’s story does not end with his great victory. After delivering Israel from Midianite oppression, he falls into the trap of pride and self-reliance. Though he refuses to be named king, he acts like one—collecting gold from his victory and making an ephod (a priestly garment) that the people begin to worship. This idolatry leads Israel back into sin after Gideon’s death.

The consequences of Gideon’s actions become clear in the story of his son, Abimelech. Unlike Gideon, who resisted the title of king, Abimelech aggressively seizes power, killing his 70 brothers to secure his rule. His reign is marked by corruption, violence, and betrayal, ultimately ending with his humiliating death when a woman drops a millstone on his head.

This passage warns us about the dangers of pride and forgetting God. Even great leaders can fall when they stop relying on Him. Gideon’s lapse led to idolatry, and Abimelech’s ambition led to destruction. Their stories remind us to guard our hearts against the subtle ways that pride can take hold.

Quote: "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall." – Proverbs 16:18 (NIV)

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU:

One surprising part of this story is that Gideon, a man once dependent on God for guidance, ends up leading Israel into idolatry. Despite witnessing miracles, he gathers gold from the people and makes an ephod, which becomes a snare for him and his family (Judges 8:27).

Another shocking detail is the cruelty of Abimelech’s rise to power. He convinces the leaders of Shechem to support him, then murders all of his brothers on a single stone (Judges 9:5). This ruthless ambition shows how quickly leadership can turn corrupt when it is driven by pride and personal gain instead of a desire to serve God.

CULTURE CONNECTION:

In today’s world, we see the same dangers that plagued Gideon and Abimelech—pride, power struggles, and the temptation to place personal success above integrity. Many leaders, whether in politics, business, or even the church, start with good intentions but fall into the trap of self-glorification.

This passage challenges us to check our own hearts. Are we seeking success for God's glory or our own? Are we building our lives on His truth, or are we being swayed by ambition, pride, or the approval of others? Just as Gideon’s choices affected future generations, our decisions today shape the legacy we leave behind.

DEVOTIONAL ALLEGORY: "The Cost of a Wrong Turn"

In 1912, the Titanic set sail as the most advanced and "unsinkable" ship of its time. But pride led to disaster. Ignoring multiple warnings about icebergs, the crew continued full speed ahead—until it was too late. What started as an incredible success story ended in tragedy, all because of overconfidence and a failure to listen.

Gideon started strong, following God’s call to defeat the Midianites with only 300 men. But after his victory, pride crept in. He made an ephod—a religious object—that led Israel into idolatry. Instead of pointing people to God, Gideon allowed himself to become the center of attention. His choices left a broken legacy, paving the way for his son Abimelech, who lusted for power and murdered his own family to seize control.

Pride is a dangerous trap. It blinds us to warnings and leads us away from God’s path. Gideon’s story teaches us that it’s not just how we start that matters—but how we finish.

Are there areas in your life where pride might be leading you in the wrong direction? How can you stay humble and keep God at the center of your success?

SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from the Old Testament- Judges 8:1-9:57

→Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

→Humility in Leadership →Gideon refused to be made king, acknowledging God as ruler—but his later actions contradicted this. True growth requires humility without hypocrisy. →Judges 8:22–23

→Guarding Against Subtle Idolatry →Gideon made a golden ephod that became a snare. Spiritual maturity means discerning and avoiding even well-intentioned actions that lead to idolatry. →Judges 8:27

→Rejecting Legacy of Control →Gideon had many wives and a son named Abimelech, meaning “my father is king.” Growth includes surrendering personal legacy to God, not controlling it. →Judges 8:30–31

→Recognizing the Danger of Ambition →Abimelech killed his brothers to secure power. Spiritually growing people examine their motives and reject self-serving ambition. →Judges 9:1–6

→God Judges Corruption →God sent an evil spirit between Abimelech and Shechem, leading to his downfall. Growth includes trusting God to bring justice in His time. →Judges 9:22–24

→Consequences of Spiritual Decay →Both Gideon’s compromise and Abimelech’s violence show how personal sin leads to communal suffering. Growth means living with integrity for others' sake. →Judges 9:56–57

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:

Gideon’s story reminds us that even strong faith can be derailed by pride and compromise. While his early victories came from trusting in God, his later years show the danger of forgetting where true strength comes from.

Abimelech’s story is an extreme example of what happens when ambition and power become more important than righteousness. His violent rise and fall illustrate that self-serving leadership leads to destruction. Whether in small decisions or major life choices, we must remain humble, seeking God’s will rather than our own.

No matter our successes, we must continually return to God in humility, recognizing that everything we achieve comes from Him. If we allow pride to take root, it will not only impact us but also those who come after us. Gideon’s legacy teaches us that one moment of spiritual victory does not guarantee a lifetime of faithfulness—we must stay vigilant in our walk with God.

QUICK QUIZ: (Discussion Questions)

Why do you think Gideon fell into idolatry after seeing so many of God's miracles? How can we guard against spiritual complacency in our own lives?

Abimelech was consumed by power and ambition. What are some ways we can recognize and resist the temptation to put ourselves before God?

NOTEABLE QUOTES:

C.S. Lewis
"Pride is a spiritual cancer: it eats up the very possibility of love, or contentment, or even common sense. When we are filled with pride, we stop relying on God, and we turn to idols that promise what only God can give. Gideon’s downfall came not from the battles he fought, but from the one battle he didn’t—his battle against his own pride. Abimelech’s wickedness is a tragic reminder that ambition unchecked by humility is a dangerous force." — Mere Christianity

Lewis highlights the destructive nature of pride, which leads to both Gideon's and Abimelech’s downfall. Gideon’s lapse into idolatry and Abimelech's treacherous ambition are both consequences of pride taking root, leading them away from God’s true purpose for their lives.

Max Lucado
"The trouble with pride is that it distorts our view of who we really are. Gideon, once humble and obedient to God, fell into the trap of thinking he could control the people he had helped save. Abimelech, on the other hand, saw leadership as a means of self-glory, rather than a responsibility. Both were ensnared by pride, and both paid the price. We must be careful not to let success go to our heads and forget that the glory belongs to God alone." — Grace for the Moment

Lucado underscores the danger of pride, noting that both Gideon and Abimelech were trapped by it, but for different reasons. Gideon forgot that his leadership was by God's grace, while Abimelech’s ambition led him to treachery. The lesson is clear: true leadership comes from humility and reliance on God, not self-glory.

Tim Keller
"Pride is not just the opposite of humility; it is the distortion of our understanding of God’s grace. Gideon’s descent into idolatry shows us that even after experiencing God's victory, we can easily fall into the trap of thinking we are in control. Abimelech’s ambition, driven by pride, leads to violence and treachery. Both stories remind us that when we take our eyes off of God, we will fall into destructive patterns." — The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness

Keller’s reflection emphasizes that pride distorts our understanding of God’s grace and leads to sin. Gideon and Abimelech's actions are warnings about the dangers of self-reliance and the necessity of continually keeping our eyes on God. Their stories serve as a stark reminder that without humility, even the most powerful leaders can be led astray.

KEY POINTS to Reflect On:

The Danger of Pride

Verse: Judges 8:22-27

Point: Success can quickly lead to spiritual compromise

Reflection: Victories can become stumbling blocks when we forget who truly gives us strength

Discussion Prompt: Share a time when success made you feel self-sufficient instead of dependent on God.

Unintended Consequences

Verse: Judges 9:22-24

Point: Our actions impact not just ourselves, but those around us

Reflection: Family and community can suffer from individual choices of pride and rebellion

Discussion Prompt: How have you seen one person's choices affect an entire family or community?

The Cycle of Destruction

Verse: Judges 9:53-57

Point: Pride and violence ultimately destroy those who pursue them

Reflection: God's justice ultimately prevails, even when it's not immediate

Discussion Prompt: Describe a time when you saw that "what goes around comes around" in a meaningful way.

CROSS-REFERENCE:

Dangers of Pride

Proverbs 16:18 (NIV): "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall."

God's Perspective on Ambition

James 4:6 (NIV): "But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: 'God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'"

Consequences of Wickedness

Galatians 6:7-8 (NIV): "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life."

Discussion Questions:

Spiritual Vigilance

Question: How do we protect ourselves from becoming comfortable with small compromises?

Commentary: Encourage participants to reflect on the subtle ways pride can enter our lives. Discuss the importance of staying humble and connected to God, especially after experiencing success.

Family Legacy

Question: What spiritual lessons have you learned from observing family dynamics and choices?

Commentary: Create a space for sharing wisdom from life experiences. Help participants understand how individual choices ripple through generations.

Redemption After Failure

Question: Can you share a story of recovering from a time when you strayed from God's path?

Commentary: Focus on hope and restoration. Emphasize that God's grace is always available, no matter how far we may have drifted.

Final Reflection:

Success is not measured by our achievements, but by our continued dependence on God and our willingness to remain humble.

Session 6: Tola and Jair: Minor Judges, Major Lessons- Judges 10:1-5
— Printable Handout

Title: "Quiet Faithfulness: The Minor Judges"

Focus: The brief accounts of Tola and Jair, highlighting the importance of faithfulness in everyday life.

Purpose Statement: To recognize that God values consistent faithfulness, even in seemingly ordinary circumstances.

READ: Judges 10:1-5

Audio: (NLT)

LEAD-IN QUESTIONS:

Why do you think the stories of Tola and Jair are so brief compared to the other judges? What significance do they hold?

What does it mean to be faithful in the little things? How can we apply this to our daily lives?

OVERVIEW:

In the book of Judges, we often focus on the dramatic stories of leaders like Deborah, Gideon, and Samson. But in Judges 10:1-5, we meet two lesser-known figures—Tola and Jair—who served Israel quietly and faithfully.

Tola led Israel for 23 years, bringing stability after the chaotic rule of Abimelech. Jair followed, ruling for 22 years. While their stories lack dramatic battles or miracles, their leadership provided peace and continuity for Israel.

Their lives remind us that not every act of faithfulness is flashy or celebrated. God values quiet obedience just as much as bold heroism. Whether leading nations or serving in small ways, our consistency in following God matters.

Quote: "Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much." – Luke 16:10 (NIV)

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU:

Unlike other judges, there are no recorded battles or major conflicts in the time of Tola and Jair. This might make their leadership seem insignificant, but their long reigns suggest that they brought stability and peace to Israel—something the nation desperately needed after Abimelech’s violent rule.

Jair’s story also includes a unique detail: he had 30 sons who rode 30 donkeys and controlled 30 towns (Judges 10:4). In biblical times, donkeys were symbols of status and wealth, suggesting that Jair was a man of influence. This detail may seem small, but it points to God's provision and how faithfulness can bring long-term blessings.

CULTURE CONNECTION:

Today, we often celebrate bold leaders and big achievements, but most of life is lived in the “ordinary” moments—raising families, working faithfully, and serving others quietly. The story of Tola and Jair reminds us that God values consistent obedience, even when no one else is watching.

We may not all be called to dramatic acts of leadership, but we are called to be faithful in our daily lives—whether in our families, workplaces, or communities. Like Tola and Jair, our quiet commitment to God can have a lasting impact on those around us.

DEVOTIONAL ALLEGORY: "The Unsung Heroes"

When we think of history’s greatest figures, we often picture famous leaders, inventors, or athletes. But what about those who work faithfully behind the scenes? Consider the unknown builders of the Brooklyn Bridge. While John Roebling designed it, and his son Washington oversaw construction, countless unnamed workers risked their lives to make the bridge a reality. Without their steady, quiet work, the structure wouldn’t stand today.

In Judges 10, we meet Tola and Jair—two lesser-known judges. Unlike Gideon or Samson, they didn’t lead dramatic battles or perform miracles. The Bible gives only a few verses about them, yet they ruled for decades, bringing stability to Israel. They may not have had flashy stories, but their faithfulness mattered.

Most of us won’t have our names in history books, but that doesn’t mean our faithfulness is unnoticed. God values consistent obedience, even in the ordinary moments of life. Whether raising a family, serving in church, or being a light to those around us, quiet faithfulness makes a difference.

Are you discouraged because your efforts seem small or unnoticed? Remember, God sees and values every act of faithfulness, no matter how ordinary it may seem. How can you serve Him consistently in your daily life?

SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from the Old Testament- Judges 10:1-5

→Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

→Quiet Faithfulness →Tola judged Israel quietly for 23 years without fame or conflict. Growth means being faithful even when unnoticed by others. →Judges 10:1–2

→Stability in Turbulent Times →Tola arose to save Israel during instability. Spiritually growing people offer calm, consistent leadership when others falter. →Judges 10:1

→Building a Legacy of Peace →Jair’s 22-year reign brought peace and prosperity. Growth includes investing in a legacy of righteousness, not personal glory. →Judges 10:3

→Civic Responsibility →Jair’s 30 sons rode 30 donkeys and ruled 30 towns. Though symbolic, it shows structured leadership. Growth includes stewarding influence wisely. →Judges 10:4

→Faithful Stewardship →The judges led without scandal or rebellion. Growth means using God-given authority and time well, even without dramatic stories. →Judges 10:1–5 (overall)

→Serving Without Spotlight →These judges didn’t seek recognition. A spiritually maturing person is content to serve in the background if it means God's people are cared for. →Judges 10:1–5

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:

Faithfulness doesn’t always come with dramatic moments or public recognition, but it is essential to God’s work. Tola and Jair show us that stability and consistency are just as important as boldness and bravery.

We may not all be called to lead in extraordinary ways, but we are called to be faithful where God has placed us. Whether we are leading a family, working diligently, or serving in the background, God sees and values our obedience. The impact of a steady, faithful life can ripple out far beyond what we imagine.

QUICK QUIZ: (Discussion Questions)

Why do you think God included the stories of Tola and Jair in the Bible, even though they seem less dramatic than other judges? What does this teach us about faithfulness?

In what ways can we practice quiet faithfulness in our everyday lives? How can consistency in small things impact those around us?

NOTEABLE QUOTES:

Charles Spurgeon

"It is not the mighty and the famous who do the great work of God, but rather the quiet, faithful servants whose names are little known and whose deeds are often unnoticed. Tola and Jair were not men of great spectacle or grand victories, yet their faithfulness to God in their small roles in the nation of Israel is an example to us all. God does not require us to be famous, nor does He demand our names be etched in the annals of history; He calls us to be faithful. Faithfulness in the little things, in the hidden moments, is where true greatness lies. In this way, we are to serve, trusting that God sees and values our quiet devotion to His calling, no matter how small it seems to us." — The Soul Winner

Spurgeon reflects on how faithfulness in the small things can be more significant than we often realize. He highlights the lives of Tola and Jair as examples of how quiet devotion to God in everyday life is both valuable and pleasing to Him.

Elisabeth Elliot

"The Lord has never promised to make us famous or successful by worldly standards. But He has promised to use the faithful, even in the smallest of tasks, for His purposes. Tola and Jair are perfect examples of this. They were not known for great accomplishments, yet their obedience to God in their humble roles made all the difference. We often think that our lives must be extraordinary to count, but God values quiet faithfulness. The true question for each of us is not whether we are seen or remembered by others, but whether we are faithful where we are, with what we have, and in the little things that God has entrusted to us." — Let Me Be a Woman

Elliot’s words emphasize the importance of faithfulness in our everyday lives. She encourages believers to recognize that it is not about fame or worldly success but about being faithful in the ordinary and trusting that God uses even the smallest acts for His purposes.

Sinclair Ferguson

"The lives of Tola and Jair remind us that God is not only interested in dramatic moments of success but also in the quiet, steady faithfulness of His people. In the busyness of life, we can be easily tempted to believe that our everyday tasks are too insignificant to matter. But God's kingdom is built on the foundation of faithful service, even when it seems unnoticed. These minor judges, though largely unknown, played a vital role in preserving the peace of Israel and maintaining the continuity of God’s work. We must learn from their example that faithfulness in the mundane is what makes all the difference in the kingdom of God." — The Christian Life: A Doctrinal Introduction

Ferguson points out that faithfulness in the mundane tasks is just as valuable to God as the more dramatic moments in life. He encourages us to follow the example of Tola and Jair, seeing the importance of quiet, consistent service in the Kingdom of God.

KEY POINTS to Reflect On:

Significance of the Ordinary

Verse: Judges 10:1-2

Point: God notices and values faithful service, even when it seems unspectacular

Reflection: Not all important work is dramatic or publicly recognized

Discussion Prompt: Share a time when you felt your quiet service might not matter, but it was meaningful to someone.

Consistent Leadership

Verse: Judges 10:3-4

Point: True leadership is about steady, reliable guidance

Reflection: Faithfulness is more important than fame or grand gestures

Discussion Prompt: Describe a person who has been a consistent, quiet influence in your life.

Unseen Faithfulness

Verse: Judges 10:1,3

Point: Some of the most important work in God's kingdom happens without fanfare

Reflection: God sees and values our everyday obedience

Discussion Prompt: How do you find meaning in your daily, sometimes routine, acts of faith?

CROSS-REFERENCE:

Value of Faithful Service

Matthew 25:21 (NIV): "His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!'"

God's Perspective on Service

1 Corinthians 4:2 (NIV): "Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful."

Quiet Influence

Matthew 6:4 (NIV): "So that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you."

Discussion Questions:

Unrecognized Contributions

Question: When have you felt that your efforts went unnoticed, but were still important?

Commentary: Encourage participants to value their behind-the-scenes contributions. Help them recognize that God sees and appreciates every act of faithfulness, no matter how small.

Generational Impact

Question: How have quiet, faithful people influenced your spiritual journey?

Commentary: Invite stories about unsung heroes who made a significant difference through consistent love and service. Highlight the ripple effect of faithful living.

Finding Purpose in Everyday

Question: How do you find meaning and purpose in your daily routines?

Commentary: Create a space for sharing how faith can transform ordinary moments. Discuss ways to see God's presence in everyday life.

Final Reflection:

God's kingdom is built not just by grand gestures, but by faithful hearts showing up day after day, loving and serving quietly.

Session 7: Jephthah's Rash Vow and Tragedy- Judges 10:6-12:7
— Printable Handout

Title: "The Cost of a Careless Promise"

Focus: Jephthah's rash vow and its tragic consequences, highlighting the importance of careful consideration before making promises.

Purpose Statement: To understand the seriousness of vows and the importance of seeking God's wisdom in decision-making.

READ: Judges 10:6-12:7

Audio: (NLT)

LEAD-IN QUESTIONS:

What do you think motivated Jephthah to make such a rash vow? How can we avoid making similar mistakes?

How does Jephthah's story illustrate the tension between human will and divine sovereignty?

OVERVIEW:

Jephthah’s story is one of both triumph and tragedy. He was an outcast, the son of a prostitute, rejected by his family and community. Yet, when Israel was under attack by the Ammonites, the people turned to Jephthah for help. With God’s power, he led Israel to victory.

However, Jephthah made a tragic mistake. Before going into battle, he made a rash vow to God, promising that if he won, he would sacrifice "whatever comes out of the door of my house to meet me" (Judges 11:31). To his horror, the first to greet him was his only daughter. His story serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of impulsive promises and the importance of seeking God’s wisdom before making decisions.

Quote: "It is a trap to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider one’s vows." – Proverbs 20:25 (NIV)

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU:

Many people assume that Jephthah sacrificed his daughter as a burnt offering, but some scholars believe she was instead dedicated to lifelong service to God, living in perpetual virginity. The text emphasizes her mourning over never marrying (Judges 11:37-38) rather than over facing death. While the exact outcome is debated, the tragedy remains—Jephthah’s careless words cost him dearly.

This highlights an important biblical principle: God never desires human sacrifice (Deuteronomy 12:31). Jephthah may have been influenced by the pagan cultures around him, which practiced child sacrifice, showing how cultural influences can lead to devastating misunderstandings of God’s will.

CULTURE CONNECTION:

In today’s world, people often make promises or commitments without fully considering the consequences. Whether it's a business contract, a marriage vow, or even a casual statement like "I swear I’ll do it," our words carry weight. Social media also amplifies this issue—people make impulsive statements online that can have long-term consequences.

Jephthah’s story reminds us to slow down and seek God’s wisdom before making big decisions. Instead of making promises in the heat of the moment, we should pray, seek counsel, and trust in God’s guidance.

DEVOTIONAL ALLEGORY: "Think Before You Speak"

In 1929, a young stock trader named Edwin Lefèvre made a bold prediction. Convinced the stock market would only go up, he publicly declared that stocks would never crash. Just weeks later, the market collapsed, leading to the Great Depression. His careless words became a painful reminder that speaking without wisdom can have lasting consequences.

Jephthah made a similar mistake in Judges 11. Before going into battle, he made a rash vow to God: if he won, he would sacrifice whatever came out of his house first. Tragically, his own daughter was the first to greet him. His hasty words led to deep sorrow and regret.

This story reminds us that words have power. Promises made in the heat of the moment—without wisdom or prayer—can bring unintended consequences. Whether it’s a commitment we can’t keep, a hurtful word we can’t take back, or a decision made without thinking, careless words can lead to unnecessary pain.

Before we speak or make a big decision, we should seek God’s wisdom. Are there any words or promises in your life that need to be reconsidered? How can you slow down and seek God before making commitments?

SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from the Old Testament- Judges 10:6-12:7

→Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

→God’s Mercy Despite Rebellion →Israel repeatedly turned to idols, yet God still delivered them when they cried out. Growth involves trusting God’s mercy, even after failure. →Judges 10:6–16

→God Can Use the Rejected →Jephthah was the son of a prostitute, cast out by his family, yet chosen by God. Spiritual maturity sees potential in the rejected and broken. →Judges 11:1–11

→Knowing God’s Word Matters →Jephthah misunderstood God’s nature and history, leading to a tragic vow. Growth requires knowing Scripture deeply to avoid spiritual errors. →Judges 11:29–31; 11:12–28

→Be Cautious With Promises →Jephthah’s vow led to unnecessary tragedy. A spiritually mature person thinks, prays, and waits before speaking or committing. →Judges 11:30–40

→Resolve Conflict Peacefully →Jephthah tried diplomacy before fighting Ammon but later responded with violence toward fellow Israelites. Growth includes peacemaking, not pride. →Judges 11:12–27; 12:1–6

→Short-Term Victory vs. Long-Term Wisdom →Though Jephthah won battles, his legacy was marred by impulsiveness and division. Spiritual growth seeks wisdom, not just results. →Judges 11:32–33; 12:7

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:

Words have power. Jephthah’s vow teaches us that impulsive decisions, even when made with good intentions, can lead to deep regret. God calls us to be thoughtful and wise in our commitments. Instead of making rash promises, we should trust in His guidance and be careful with our words.

This story also reminds us of God’s grace. Even when we make mistakes, God is still at work. Jephthah, despite his tragic error, is listed in Hebrews 11 among the heroes of faith. This shows that God can still use imperfect people for His purposes. However, it is far better to seek wisdom first, rather than learning lessons the hard way.

QUICK QUIZ: (Discussion Questions)

Why do you think Jephthah made his vow? What does this teach us about seeking God’s wisdom before making decisions?

Have you ever made a promise or commitment too quickly? How can we ensure that our words and decisions honor God?

NOTEABLE QUOTES:

C.S. Lewis
"Promises are not just words spoken in the heat of the moment, but bonds that carry weight. They have consequences. Jephthah’s vow is a sobering reminder that when we speak, especially in moments of desperation or rashness, we should be mindful of the vows we make. The reckless promise can lead to irreparable harm, and the wiser path is one of cautious reflection and seeking God’s guidance before making decisions that bind us." — The Screwtape Letters

Lewis emphasizes the gravity of promises and the consequences of rash decisions. Jephthah’s story serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us to seek God’s wisdom before making promises that may cost more than we can afford.

Max Lucado
"Words matter. Vows, especially, carry a weight that lasts longer than we often realize. Jephthah made a promise in a moment of emotion, but he was not prepared for the cost of it. His story teaches us that we must slow down before making decisions that involve others, that we may consider the full impact of our words. We must seek God’s wisdom, because in His timing, He will show us how to make promises that honor Him and others." — In the Eye of the Storm

Lucado stresses the importance of thoughtful consideration when making promises. Jephthah’s rash vow underscores the necessity of pausing to seek God’s guidance, recognizing that our words carry significant consequences.

KEY POINTS to Reflect On:

Desperate Bargaining

Verse: Judges 11:30-31

Point: Making hasty promises in moments of desperation can lead to devastating consequences

Reflection: Our attempts to bargain with God reveal our limited understanding

Discussion Prompt: Share a time when you made a decision out of fear or desperation that you later regretted.

Misunderstanding God's Character

Verse: Judges 11:35-36

Point: God does not desire human sacrifice or impossible vows

Reflection: True faith is about trust, not transactional bargaining

Discussion Prompt: How do we sometimes misunderstand God's nature and expectations?

The Weight of Words

Verse: Judges 11:39-40

Point: Our words and promises have real, sometimes painful consequences

Reflection: Wisdom requires careful thought before speaking

Discussion Prompt: Describe a time when you learned the importance of thinking carefully before making a commitment.

CROSS-REFERENCE:

Careful Promises

Matthew 5:33-37 (NIV): "Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not break your oath, but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made.' But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all... All you need to say is simply 'Yes' or 'No'."

Seeking Wisdom

James 1:5 (NIV): "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."

God's True Nature

Micah 6:7-8 (NIV): "Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousand rivers of olive oil? ... He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."

Discussion Questions:

Impulsive Decisions

Question: When have you made a decision without fully thinking through the consequences?

Commentary: Create a safe space for sharing personal experiences. Emphasize the importance of seeking guidance, pausing, and reflecting before making significant commitments.

Understanding God's Will

Question: How do we distinguish between genuine faith and trying to manipulate God?

Commentary: Explore the difference between trusting God and trying to control outcomes. Discuss the importance of prayer, wisdom, and understanding God's character.

Learning from Mistakes

Question: Share a time when you learned a valuable lesson from a difficult decision or its consequences.

Commentary: Focus on growth, forgiveness, and God's ongoing grace. Highlight that mistakes can be opportunities for deeper understanding and spiritual maturity.

Final Reflection:

God's love is not about perfect performance, but about a humble heart seeking His wisdom and guidance.

Session 8: Ibzan, Elon, and Abdon: More Minor Judges- Judges 12:8-15
— Printable Handout

Title: "Stability in the Shadows: Judges of Peace"

Focus: The brief accounts of Ibzan, Elon, and Abdon, emphasizing the importance of stability and peace.

Purpose Statement: To appreciate the value of peaceful leadership and the blessings of stability.

READ: Judges 12:8-15

Audio: (NLT)

LEAD-IN QUESTIONS:

What can we glean from the brevity of these accounts? What does it tell us about the nature of God's work?

How does the concept of peace relate to our faith and our interactions with others?

OVERVIEW:

The book of Judges is full of dramatic battles and powerful leaders, but tucked at the end of chapter 12 are three lesser-known figures: Ibzan, Elon, and Abdon. Their reigns are not marked by war or conflict but by stability and prosperity.

Ibzan served for seven years, had 30 sons and 30 daughters, and arranged marriages for them—suggesting a time of peace and strong political alliances. Elon ruled for ten years, though little is recorded about him. Abdon, who led for eight years, had 40 sons and 30 grandsons who rode on 70 donkeys, a sign of wealth and stability.

These judges may not have fought great battles, but their leadership brought peace to Israel. Their stories remind us that quiet faithfulness and steady leadership are just as important as bold heroics.

Quote: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." – Matthew 5:9 (NIV)

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU:

In contrast to the instability and violence seen throughout Judges, these three leaders ruled during relatively peaceful times. The Bible does not mention any major crises during their leadership, which suggests they provided stability rather than military conquest.

Another interesting detail is the mention of their children and grandchildren riding donkeys. In ancient times, donkeys were a sign of wealth and peaceful governance (as opposed to horses, which were used in war). This small detail highlights how God sometimes blesses His people through times of peace, not just through miraculous victories.

CULTURE CONNECTION:

In today's world, leadership is often associated with crisis management, power struggles, and big, bold decisions. However, good leadership is not just about handling emergencies—it is also about maintaining stability, fostering peace, and ensuring long-term growth.

Many of the most impactful leaders in history are not the ones who make headlines but those who build strong families, communities, and workplaces. Whether in parenting, church leadership, or even friendships, quiet faithfulness matters. The story of Ibzan, Elon, and Abdon reminds us that steady, consistent leadership is just as valuable as heroic action.

DEVOTIONAL ALLEGORY: "The Builders We Forget"

When we think about America’s presidents, we often remember the ones who led during wars or crises—Washington, Lincoln, Roosevelt. But what about the presidents who served during peaceful times? Leaders like Calvin Coolidge or James Monroe may not be as famous, but their steady leadership helped the nation grow and thrive.

In Judges 12, we meet Ibzan, Elon, and Abdon—three minor judges whose stories are told in just a few verses. They didn’t fight great battles or perform mighty miracles, but they led during times of stability. Their leadership helped Israel experience peace, which was just as important as the dramatic rescues of Gideon or Samson.

Sometimes, we overlook the value of quiet seasons in our lives. We think God is only working in big, dramatic moments. But stability is a blessing. Peaceful, faithful leadership—whether in our homes, churches, or communities—lays the foundation for future generations.

Are you in a season of life that feels "small" or ordinary? Remember that God values quiet faithfulness just as much as bold action. How can you embrace the peace He has given and use it to bless others?

SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from the Old Testament- Judges 12:8-15

→Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

→Steady Service →These judges led Israel without recorded conflict or failure. Growth sometimes looks like steady, unglamorous faithfulness over time. →Judges 12:8–15 (overall)

→Generational Influence →Ibzan had 30 sons and 30 daughters; Abdon had 40 sons and 30 grandsons. Growth includes raising and mentoring future generations in godliness and wisdom. →Judges 12:9, 14

→Community Impact →Their families rode donkeys and governed towns, symbols of peace and influence. Growth means shaping communities through peace and stability. →Judges 12:14

→Legacy Through Leadership →Each judge was remembered for leading Israel well. A spiritually mature person builds a legacy rooted in faithful leadership, not fame. →Judges 12:8, 11, 13

→Honoring Quiet Callings →Though not warriors or prophets, they fulfilled their role. Growth includes accepting and honoring your unique calling, even without public recognition. →Judges 12:8–15

→Peace as a Sign of God’s Blessing →Their peaceful rule implies divine favor. Maturity means understanding that peace, not just power, reflects God’s presence and blessing. →Judges 12:8–15

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:

Not all of God’s work happens in dramatic moments. Sometimes, His greatest blessings come in the form of peace, stability, and faithful leadership over time. The minor judges remind us that even when life seems ordinary, God is still at work.

Faithfulness in everyday life is just as important as courage in times of crisis. Whether we are leading in big ways or small, God calls us to be consistent, wise, and faithful. True success is not measured by fame or recognition but by a life lived in obedience and service to Him.

QUICK QUIZ:

Why do you think God included these “minor judges” in the Bible, even though they didn’t do anything dramatic? What does this teach us about the value of peace and stability?

How can we practice faithfulness in our everyday lives, even when we don’t see immediate results?

NOTEABLE QUOTES:

A.W. Tozer

"The greatest blessing in a nation or a community is not the presence of strength or might but the presence of peace and stability, which come from godly leadership. Ibzan, Elon, and Abdon were not renowned for great military victories or remarkable exploits, yet they exemplified the quiet, steady work of those who lead with wisdom and restraint. In an age when power is too often measured by force and influence, the peace of godly leadership is undervalued. Yet, it is peace that allows societies to flourish, for it is the foundation upon which justice, mercy, and truth are built. When leaders uphold the peace that comes from a right relationship with God, stability is the result, and it is the quiet, humble work of such leaders that sustains nations." — The Pursuit of God

Tozer emphasizes the deep value of peace and stability in leadership, pointing out that these qualities, as seen in the minor judges like Ibzan, Elon, and Abdon, provide a foundation for justice and flourishing. True leadership, according to Tozer, is not about power or force but about maintaining peace.

Francis Schaeffer

"In the midst of Israel’s turmoil, we see the value of leaders like Ibzan, Elon, and Abdon who represent the peace that comes from faithful service and obedience to God. They were not the flashiest or the most celebrated of the judges, but their contributions were vital for the stability of the people. The call to peace in leadership is often overlooked, especially in times of crisis. But the quiet, faithful leadership of these men teaches us that stability comes not from the absence of conflict but from being rooted in God’s truth and maintaining faithfulness to His word. Their leadership reminds us that the blessings of peace in a society are deeply tied to the quiet faithfulness of those who lead in humility and service." — The Church at the End of the Twentieth Century

Schaeffer highlights the quiet faithfulness of Ibzan, Elon, and Abdon as essential to the stability of Israel. He underscores the importance of godly leadership in bringing peace, especially in times of turmoil, and calls for a return to humble, faithful service.

Tim Keller

"Stability and peace are often overlooked in the pursuit of greatness, but the lives of Ibzan, Elon, and Abdon show us that faithful, stable leadership is invaluable in any society. While the major judges like Gideon and Samson are remembered for their dramatic victories, these minor judges were instrumental in maintaining the peace and stability necessary for Israel’s survival. Peaceful leadership is not about creating dramatic change, but about upholding order, justice, and righteousness over time. We must remember that the blessing of stability in a community often comes from leaders who are faithful, consistent, and obedient to God, not from those who seek their own glory or acclaim." — Center Church: Doing Balanced, Gospel-Centered Ministry in Your City

Keller reflects on the quiet impact of leaders like Ibzan, Elon, and Abdon. He speaks to the value of faithful and consistent leadership in creating stability and peace, emphasizing that peace often comes from leaders who remain true to God’s principles rather than seeking glory or fame.

KEY POINTS to Reflect On:

Quiet Leadership

Verse: Judges 12:8-10

Point: Effective leadership isn't always about dramatic victories

Reflection: Peaceful seasons are as important as times of conflict

Discussion Prompt: Share a time when stability and peace were more valuable than excitement or change.

Family and Community

Verse: Judges 12:9,14

Point: Family connections and community relationships matter in leadership

Reflection: Strong families and social networks contribute to societal peace

Discussion Prompt: How have family relationships been a source of strength in your life?

The Blessing of Peace

Verse: Judges 12:11-12, 13-15

Point: Periods of peace are gifts to be appreciated

Reflection: Not every season requires dramatic action

Discussion Prompt: Describe a time when you learned to appreciate a season of calm and stability.

CROSS-REFERENCE:

Value of Peace

Romans 12:18 (NIV): "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."

Quiet Faithfulness

1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 (NIV): "Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody."

God's Peace

Philippians 4:7 (NIV): "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Discussion Questions:

Seasons of Life

Question: How do you find meaning during peaceful, less dramatic times of life?

Commentary: Encourage participants to see value in quieter seasons. Discuss how rest and stability are essential for spiritual growth and renewal.

Family Legacies

Question: What valuable lessons have you learned from your family's history?

Commentary: Create a space for sharing family stories and wisdom. Highlight how family connections shape our understanding and provide support.

Finding Purpose in Routine

Question: How do you maintain spiritual vitality during times of stability?

Commentary: Discuss ways to stay spiritually engaged during less turbulent periods. Explore the importance of consistent faith and personal growth.

Final Reflection:

God's work often happens in quiet moments, in stable seasons, and through faithful, ordinary people.

Session 9: Samson's Birth and Early Life- Judges 13:1-25
— Printable Handout

Title: "Set Apart: The Strength and Struggle of Samson"

Focus: The miraculous birth of Samson and the beginning of his unique calling as a Nazirite.

Purpose Statement: To understand the significance of God's special call and the challenges of living a consecrated life.

READ: Judges 13:1-25

Audio: (NLT)

 

LEAD-IN QUESTIONS:

What does the story of Samson's birth reveal about God's plan and sovereignty?

What does it mean to be "set apart" for God? How can we maintain a consecrated life in today's world?

OVERVIEW:

Samson’s story begins long before his famous feats of strength. Even before his birth, God had set him apart for a special purpose. In Judges 13, an angel appeared to a barren woman—the wife of Manoah—announcing that she would give birth to a son who would begin to deliver Israel from the Philistines.

This child, Samson, was to be a Nazirite from birth, meaning he was dedicated to God and bound by specific vows, including abstaining from alcohol, avoiding unclean things, and never cutting his hair. His birth was miraculous, and his calling was clear. Yet, as we will see in later chapters, Samson struggled to fully embrace God’s plan for his life.

Samson’s early story teaches us that God calls people for a purpose, but responding to that call requires faithfulness.

Quote: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart." – Jeremiah 1:5 (NIV)

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU:

Many people think of Samson only as a strong warrior, but his strength was not due to his muscles—it was a direct result of God's Spirit empowering him (Judges 13:25, 14:6). His Nazirite vow was a visible sign of his calling, but the true source of his power was God’s presence, not his hair.

Another surprising detail is Samson’s parents' reaction to the angel's message. Manoah, Samson’s father, wanted to hear directly from the angel himself and asked for further instruction on how to raise Samson (Judges 13:8). This shows a desire to obey God fully, a contrast to Samson’s later struggles with obedience.

CULTURE CONNECTION:

Today, many people wrestle with the idea of being "set apart" for God. In a world that values personal freedom and self-expression, the idea of living by God’s standards can feel restrictive. However, Samson’s story reminds us that being set apart is not about limitations—it’s about fulfilling our God-given purpose.

Like Samson, we are all called to live in a way that reflects God’s holiness. Whether it’s standing up for truth, making moral choices, or resisting temptations, our daily decisions show whether we embrace or resist God’s calling.

DEVOTIONAL ALLEGORY: "A Special Calling, A Great Responsibility"

In 1961, a young boy named Neil was fascinated with the stars. He had a love for flying and a passion for exploration. Years later, that boy—Neil Armstrong—would be the first person to walk on the moon. His journey was no accident; he was set apart from an early age, trained with great discipline, and given a mission that required both strength and character.

Samson’s story in Judges 13 begins with a miraculous birth. His parents were visited by an angel who told them their son would be set apart as a Nazirite—dedicated to God for a special purpose. Samson was given incredible strength, but with that strength came great responsibility. Unfortunately, as his story unfolds, we see that his struggles with self-control and temptation often got in the way of his calling.

Like Samson, we all have a purpose. God has gifted each of us in unique ways, and He calls us to live for Him. But with calling comes responsibility. Strength without obedience can lead to trouble.

What gifts or abilities has God given you? How can you use them wisely to honor Him, rather than letting distractions or temptations pull you away from your purpose?

SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from the Old Testament- Judges 13:1-25

→Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

→God Works in Hopeless Situations →Israel was again in bondage, and Manoah’s wife was barren—yet God stepped in. Growth involves trusting God to work powerfully in barren seasons. →Judges 13:1–3

→God's Call Precedes Our Ability →Samson was called before birth. Spiritually maturing people realize that God’s purposes are rooted in His will, not our qualifications. →Judges 13:5

→Set Apart for God’s Purposes →Samson was a Nazirite, dedicated to God. Growth includes living with purpose and being distinct in how we honor God with our lifestyle. →Judges 13:5–7

→Welcoming God’s Presence at Home →Manoah and his wife eagerly sought to understand God’s instructions. Growing believers create homes that seek and welcome God’s presence and guidance. →Judges 13:8–14

→Reverence for God’s Holiness →Manoah feared death after seeing the Angel of the Lord. Growth includes a healthy fear of God’s holiness and a respect for His glory. →Judges 13:20–22

→God Prepares Before He Uses →Samson began to be stirred by the Spirit even as a child. Growth means recognizing that God prepares us long before the full calling is revealed. →Judges 13:24–25

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:

Samson was chosen by God before he was even born, but his life was not free from struggles. His story reminds us that a special calling does not guarantee success—faithfulness matters.

God has a purpose for each of us. While we may not be called to superhuman strength, we are all called to reflect His love, truth, and holiness in the world. Samson’s early life challenges us to ask: Are we embracing the purpose God has for us, or are we resisting His call?

NOTEABLE QUOTES:

C.S. Lewis
"The call to be set apart is not a call to ease, but to purpose. Samson’s life, though marked by power and divine promise, was one of constant struggle. When God sets us apart, He does not promise us an easy road, but He promises to be with us through the trials. To live consecrated to God is to live under His protection and purpose, but it is also to be constantly engaged in a battle, between our own desires and God's will." — The Screwtape Letters

Lewis reminds us that living a consecrated life is not about comfort but about purpose and struggle. Samson’s early life reflects the tension between divine calling and the personal challenges he would face as a Nazirite. His strength was a gift, but his journey was far from easy.

Max Lucado
"God’s call is a call to something higher, something different, something set apart. Samson’s miraculous birth was the beginning of a life that would be marked by strength, but also by struggle. A Nazirite’s life was supposed to be a life of separation, of consecration, but the pull of temptation is strong. Living set apart is not without its challenges. It’s a constant choice to stay faithful to God’s calling, even when the world and our own hearts try to lead us astray." — Grace for the Moment

Lucado speaks to the difficulty of living a consecrated life, especially when faced with temptations. He highlights that Samson’s life was not just about his strength but about the constant struggle to remain faithful to God’s calling and live in obedience.

Tim Keller
"Samson’s story is a stark reminder that being set apart for God does not exempt us from struggle. His calling as a Nazirite was to be distinct, holy, and dedicated to God. Yet, as with all who are called, there is a constant tension between God's purpose for our lives and the distractions of the world. The life of consecration requires perseverance, as it is a battle for our hearts, to stay faithful to the calling God has given us." — The Meaning of Marriage

Keller’s reflection acknowledges the difficulty of living a consecrated life. Samson’s unique calling was not an easy path, and his struggle to remain faithful to his divine purpose mirrors the challenge that anyone who is called to holiness must face. The tension between the call to be set apart and the temptations of the world is a constant battle.

QUICK QUIZ: (Discussion Questions)

Samson was set apart from birth, but he struggled to fully obey God. What does this teach us about the importance of faithfulness in following God’s calling?

How can we live a life that is “set apart” for God today? What challenges might we face in doing so?

KEY POINTS to Reflect On:

Divine Intervention

Verse: Judges 13:2-3

Point: God works through unexpected circumstances and seemingly impossible situations

Reflection: No life is too complicated for God's purposes

Discussion Prompt: Share a time when God seemed to work in an unexpected way in your life or family.

A Special Calling

Verse: Judges 13:5

Point: Some are set apart for a unique purpose from the very beginning

Reflection: God has a specific plan for each of our lives

Discussion Prompt: How have you recognized God's unique calling in your life?

Responding to God's Messenger

Verse: Judges 13:22-23

Point: Encountering God's supernatural presence can be both terrifying and reassuring

Reflection: Faith often involves facing our fears and trusting God's goodness

Discussion Prompt: Describe a moment when you felt both awe and peace in your spiritual journey.

CROSS-REFERENCE:

God's Unique Calling

Jeremiah 1:5 (NIV): "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."

Set Apart for Purpose

Galatians 1:15 (NIV): "But when God, who set me apart from my mother's womb and called me by his grace, was pleased..."

God's Supernatural Presence

Isaiah 41:10 (NIV): "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

Discussion Questions:

Life's Unexpected Journeys

Question: How have unexpected circumstances revealed God's plan in your life?

Commentary: Encourage participants to share stories of surprising ways God has worked. Help them see that God's plans often differ from our expectations.

Personal Calling

Question: What unique gifts or calling do you believe God has placed in your life?

Commentary: Create a space for reflection on individual purpose. Discuss how everyone has a special role in God's plan, regardless of age or perceived limitations.

Facing Spiritual Challenges

Question: How do you find courage when facing seemingly impossible situations?

Commentary: Explore the balance between human weakness and divine strength. Share insights about trusting God in challenging times.

Final Reflection:

God's plans are bigger than our limitations. He calls us to trust Him, even when the path seems unclear or challenging.

Session 10: Samson's Weakness and Revenge- Judges 14:1-15:20
— Printable Handout

Title: "Power and Passion: Samson's Downward Spiral"

Focus: Samson's repeated failures due to his personal weaknesses and the consequences of his actions.

Purpose Statement: To recognize the dangers of unchecked passions and the importance of self-control.

READ: Judges 14:1-15:20

Audio: (NLT)

 

LEAD-IN QUESTIONS:

What were the primary factors that contributed to Samson's repeated failures?

How does Samson's desire for revenge relate to our own struggles with anger and forgiveness?

OVERVIEW:

Samson was a man of great strength but also great weakness. Though set apart by God as a Nazirite, he repeatedly let his desires lead him astray. Instead of seeking a wife among his own people, he pursued a Philistine woman against his parents’ advice (Judges 14:3). His impulsiveness led to conflict, deceit, and ultimately a cycle of violence between him and the Philistines.

From his reckless marriage proposal to his famous riddle (Judges 14:12-14) and his fiery revenge with 300 foxes (Judges 15:4-5), Samson was ruled by his passions rather than wisdom. Yet, even in his failures, God used him to confront the Philistines, fulfilling His plan to begin Israel’s deliverance.

Samson’s story warns us about the dangers of unchecked desires, yet it also reminds us that God can work through imperfect people.

Quote: "Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control." – Proverbs 25:28 (NIV)

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU:

Many assume Samson’s strength was tied to his hair alone, but his real power came from God’s Spirit (Judges 14:6, 15:14). The length of his hair was only an outward sign of his vow. His real downfall was not losing his hair—it was his repeated compromise and disregard for God’s calling.

Another surprising detail is how Samson’s riddles and revenge mirror the Philistines' own behavior. Both sides played tricks, used deception, and sought vengeance, showing that Samson was often acting more like his enemies than as a leader of Israel. This highlights an important truth: when we let sin control us, we risk becoming like the very things we oppose.

CULTURE CONNECTION:

In today’s world, self-control is often undervalued. People are encouraged to "follow their heart" or "do whatever makes them happy," even if it leads to destructive consequences. Samson’s life serves as a warning about the dangers of letting emotions and desires dictate our choices.

Many people today struggle with impulsive decisions—whether in relationships, finances, or personal habits. Samson’s story challenges us to ask: Are we ruling over our desires, or are they ruling over us? True strength is not just physical—it’s the ability to control ourselves and live according to God’s wisdom.

DEVOTIONAL ALLEGORY: "Strength Without Control"

In the 1800s, a massive wildfire swept through Wisconsin, destroying over a million acres of land. The fire started from small sparks—left unchecked, they grew into an unstoppable force of destruction. What could have been controlled in the beginning became a disaster because no one took action in time.

Samson’s life was a lot like that wildfire. He had incredible strength, given by God for a special purpose. But instead of using it wisely, he let his personal desires—his uncontrolled passions—lead him into trouble. He chased after the wrong relationships, acted impulsively in anger, and sought revenge instead of wisdom. His lack of self-control caused harm not only to himself but also to those around him.

God gives us strengths and abilities, but without self-control, those strengths can become weaknesses. A sharp mind without wisdom can lead to arrogance. A bold personality without restraint can hurt others. Just like fire can be useful when contained but destructive when uncontrolled, our passions need to be guided by God’s wisdom.

Are there areas in your life where your emotions or desires sometimes get the best of you? How can you invite God to help you develop self-control so that your strengths can be used for His glory, not destruction?

SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from the Old Testament- Judges 14:1-15:20

→Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

→God Works Through Imperfect People →Samson sought a Philistine wife, a poor choice, but God used it to confront Israel’s enemies. Growth includes trusting that God can redeem our failures. →Judges 14:1–4

→Spiritual Power Requires Discipline →The Spirit empowered Samson, but he lacked self-control. Maturity involves pairing spiritual gifting with character and discipline. →Judges 14:6, 19; 15:14

→Guarding Against Emotional Decisions →Samson’s anger led to violence and revenge. Growth includes learning to pause, pray, and respond rather than react emotionally. →Judges 14:19; 15:3–7

→Avoiding Compromise with the Enemy →Samson kept close ties with the Philistines. Spiritual maturity means distancing from harmful alliances that weaken godly influence. →Judges 14:1–3; 15:1

→God Still Delivers His People →Despite Samson’s personal flaws, God used him to deliver Israel from oppression. Growth means remembering that God’s purposes will prevail. →Judges 15:14–20

→Relying on God in Weakness →After victory, Samson nearly died of thirst, showing his dependence on God. Maturity comes when we humbly acknowledge our need for God in every moment. →Judges 15:18–19

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:

Samson had God-given potential, but his lack of self-control kept him from fully walking in his purpose. His life reminds us that unchecked passion can lead to destruction, even for those who are chosen by God.

However, God’s grace is greater than our failures. Despite Samson’s mistakes, God still used him to confront the Philistines and begin Israel’s deliverance. This gives us hope—our weaknesses don’t disqualify us from God’s purpose, but we must learn to submit to Him and seek His strength in our struggles.

The challenge for us today is to recognize the areas where we are most vulnerable and surrender them to God. Where in our lives do we need more self-control? How can we rely on God’s strength rather than our own?

QUICK QUIZ:

How did Samson’s weaknesses lead to his downfall? What does this teach us about the importance of self-control?

In what areas of life do people struggle with self-control today? How can we rely on God to help us in those struggles?

NOTEABLE QUOTES:

A.W. Tozer

"The greatest weakness of humanity is not the absence of power, but the absence of control over power. Samson's life was full of strength, yet it was his lack of self-control that led him into the snare of sin. Power without self-discipline is a dangerous thing, and Samson's story is a painful illustration of how our passions, if left unchecked, will always lead us into destruction. True strength is not found in physical might, but in the ability to master the passions that rise up within us. Samson's story is a warning that power is not a gift to be wielded carelessly, but a trust that demands our full submission to God." — The Pursuit of God

Tozer emphasizes that Samson’s physical power was not his real strength. His inability to control his passions and impulses led to his downfall. True strength, according to Tozer, is found in mastering one's desires and submitting them to God's will.

John Piper

"Samson’s life is a warning about the dangers of unchecked desires and the consequences of not walking in wisdom. He had incredible power and anointing from God, but his lack of self-control—especially over his passions—led him down a dark and destructive path. Samson’s revenge-fueled violence and impulsive actions serve as a mirror for all of us. We may have strengths, abilities, and even gifts, but without self-control, those very things can become the source of our undoing. The Bible calls us to be vigilant over our hearts, to take every thought captive, and to walk in the Spirit. Samson, tragically, did not heed these commands, and his life ended in sorrow. If we are to avoid his fate, we must learn to submit our passions to God’s authority and exercise self-discipline in every area of our lives." — Desiring God

Piper reflects on how Samson's lack of self-control over his passions led to his downfall. He urges believers to be vigilant and disciplined, submitting their desires to God’s authority to avoid the destructive consequences seen in Samson’s life.

Beth Moore

"Samson’s story is not just a tale of a powerful man; it is the story of a man undone by the very passions that made him strong. His repeated failures show us the disastrous effects of living for the moment, of allowing our desires to rule us. Samson's power was a gift, but it was squandered by his inability to master his passions. What we learn from Samson is the importance of keeping our hearts in check, of guarding ourselves against the seduction of immediate gratification. The battle for self-control is not just about resisting temptation—it’s about realizing that our passions, when unchecked, can ultimately destroy us. If Samson had surrendered his desires to God’s control, his story would have been vastly different. It is a painful but important lesson for us all to learn." — So Long, Insecurity

Beth Moore emphasizes how Samson’s inability to control his passions ultimately led to his destruction. She points out the importance of guarding our hearts and recognizing the destructive nature of unchecked desires, urging believers to surrender their passions to God for true strength.

KEY POINTS to Reflect On:

Uncontrolled Desires

Verse: Judges 14:1-3

Point: Giving in to impulsive desires can lead us away from God's best plan

Reflection: Our emotions and immediate wants can cloud spiritual wisdom

Discussion Prompt: Share a time when you made a decision based on passion rather than careful consideration.

Consequences of Compromise

Verse: Judges 14:8-9

Point: Small compromises can create larger spiritual vulnerabilities

Reflection: Seemingly minor choices can have significant long-term impacts

Discussion Prompt: How have you seen small compromises grow into bigger challenges?

Cycles of Revenge

Verse: Judges 15:7-8

Point: Vengeance creates destructive patterns that harm everyone involved

Reflection: Forgiveness breaks the cycle of hurt and retaliation

Discussion Prompt: Describe a time when you chose to break a cycle of conflict.

CROSS-REFERENCE:

Controlling Passions

Proverbs 25:28 (NIV): "Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control."

Spiritual Warfare

Ephesians 6:12 (NIV): "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."

Overcoming Weakness

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (NIV): "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me."

Discussion Questions:

Personal Struggles

Question: What internal battles do you find most challenging to overcome?

Commentary: Create a safe space for honest sharing. Emphasize that acknowledging our weaknesses is the first step to finding strength in God.

Patterns of Behavior

Question: How have you seen destructive patterns repeat in your life or family?

Commentary: Discuss the importance of recognizing and breaking negative cycles. Highlight God's power to bring healing and transformation.

Finding Strength

Question: When have you experienced God's strength in the midst of your personal weaknesses?

Commentary: Encourage participants to share stories of God's grace. Focus on hope and restoration rather than judgment.

Final Reflection:

God's love is not dependent on our perfection, but on our willingness to turn to Him in our brokenness.

Session 11: Samson's Captivity and Redemption- Judges 16:1-31
— Printable Handout

Title: "Blind and Bound: Samson's Final Act"

Focus: Samson's final act of strength and redemption, demonstrating God's mercy and power to restore.

Purpose Statement: To understand that God can use even our failures for His glory and that redemption is possible.

READ: Judges 16:1-31

Audio: (NLT)

 

LEAD-IN QUESTIONS:

What does Samson's final prayer reveal about his relationship with God?

How does Samson's story offer hope for those who have made significant mistakes?

OVERVIEW:

Samson’s story reaches its tragic but redemptive conclusion in Judges 16. His unchecked desires led him into the hands of Delilah, a Philistine woman who betrayed him for silver. After she wore him down, he revealed the secret of his strength—his Nazirite vow and uncut hair. Once his hair was shaved, the Lord’s presence left him, and he was captured, blinded, and forced into slavery.

Yet, even in his lowest moment, God was not finished with Samson. As he stood in the temple of the Philistine god Dagon, mocked and humiliated, he cried out to God for strength one last time. With renewed power, he pulled down the temple, killing himself along with thousands of Philistines.

Samson’s final act was both one of judgment and redemption. It reminds us that even in failure, God can restore and use us for His purposes.

Quote: "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." – 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV)

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU:

Many people assume Samson’s strength came back because his hair grew back (Judges 16:22), but the real reason for his return to power was his repentance and dependence on God. His hair was only an outward sign—his true strength had always come from the Lord.

Another surprising element is that Samson is listed in Hebrews 11:32 as a hero of faith. Despite his failures, he ultimately trusted God in the end, showing that faith is not about perfection but about returning to God, even after mistakes.

CULTURE CONNECTION:

In today’s world, many people feel like they have messed up too much for God to use them. Whether it’s personal failures, broken relationships, or past mistakes, it’s easy to believe that we are beyond redemption. But Samson’s story proves otherwise.

Even after his greatest failure, God was still willing to use him. His final prayer—"Sovereign Lord, remember me." (Judges 16:28)—shows that turning back to God is always possible. No matter how far we’ve fallen, God’s grace is greater.

DEVOTIONAL ALLEGORY: A Beacon of Hope: Lessons from Samson and the Lighthouse

During World War II, the tiny island of Guernsey stood under Nazi occupation for five long years. The islanders endured tremendous hardship, oppression, and loss. Yet, even in their darkest moments, they found ways to resist and maintain hope.

One powerful story from this time involves the island's lighthouse keepers. Despite the German forces controlling the island, these brave men continued to maintain the lighthouse, ensuring safe passage for ships. Their commitment meant that even under occupation, they could provide light and guidance to those who might otherwise be lost at sea.

Samson's story reminds us of this lighthouse—a beacon of hope emerging from darkness. Just as the Guernsey lighthouse continued to shine despite the surrounding darkness, Samson's final moment of strength came when he seemed most broken. Blinded, imprisoned, and humbled, he still found redemption through his faith and God's mercy.

Like those lighthouse keepers who never gave up, Samson's story teaches us that our most profound moments of service can come after our greatest failures. God's grace doesn't depend on our perfection, but on His unlimited capacity to restore and use us for His purposes.

SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from the Old Testament- Judges 16:1-31

→Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

→Compromise Leads to Captivity →Samson pursued Delilah, ignoring repeated warnings. Growth requires recognizing how small compromises lead to spiritual bondage. →Judges 16:4–21

→Spiritual Blindness Precedes Physical Fall →Samson lost his strength before he lost his sight. Maturity includes guarding the heart long before external consequences appear. →Judges 16:20–21

→God’s Grace Is Greater Than Failure →Even after falling, Samson’s hair began to grow again—a symbol of restoration. Growth means believing in God’s ability to renew what’s broken. →Judges 16:22

→Redemption Through Surrender →Samson’s final prayer was a turning point. Maturity is seen when a person stops acting in self-interest and begins to live (or die) for God’s glory. →Judges 16:28–30

→Power in Weakness →Blind, bound, and humbled, Samson was stronger in weakness than in pride. Spiritually growing people find strength by depending wholly on God. →Judges 16:28–30

→God Fulfills His Purposes →Despite Samson’s flaws, God’s plan to begin delivering Israel from the Philistines was fulfilled. Growth means trusting God’s purposes through our lives, even when they take painful turns. →Judges 13:5; 16:30–31

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT::

In Samson's story, we see a powerful reminder that even when we make mistakes, God can still work through us. Samson's life wasn’t perfect, and he made many wrong choices, especially when he let his pride and sin control him. But in the end, God used his weakness to bring about a victory that glorified His name. It’s easy to think that our failures disqualify us from being used by God, but Samson’s story shows us that God can take our brokenness and turn it into something good. Even when we feel bound by our mistakes or blinded by our own pride, God has the power to restore us and use us for His purpose. Samson’s final act is a powerful reminder that God’s mercy is greater than our mistakes.

God’s plan for our lives is bigger than our individual failures. Just like with Samson, God can redeem us and use our lives to impact the world in ways we might never expect. It’s a humbling thought that God doesn’t give up on us when we fail. Instead, He offers us a way back, reminding us that His strength is made perfect in our weakness. When we face challenges and feel like we’ve messed up, we can remember that God isn’t done with us. He is a God of redemption who can use our weaknesses for His glory.

QUICK QUIZ:

How did Samson's weakness and failure become a way for God to demonstrate His strength and power?

What does Samson's final prayer tell us about God's mercy and the possibility of redemption?

NOTEABLE QUOTES:

C.S. Lewis
"No man is beyond the reach of God’s mercy, and no failure is so great that it cannot be redeemed. Samson’s final act of strength, though wrought in captivity and blindness, was the moment where God’s power was most clearly displayed. Redemption does not ignore the consequences of our sins, but it does offer us the hope of restoration. Even in our darkest moments, when we seem to have failed utterly, God can still use us for His purposes." — The Problem of Pain

Lewis emphasizes that even in our lowest points, God’s mercy can bring about redemption. Samson’s story is a powerful reminder that, no matter the consequences of our past mistakes, God can still work through us for His glory.

Max Lucado
"Samson’s story is a story of failure and redemption. He had fallen far from the man God had called him to be, but in his final moments, God’s mercy reached him, and his strength was restored. God does not leave us in our failures; He meets us where we are and gives us the strength to rise again. Redemption is not about our perfection, but about God's power to restore what is broken. Our failures do not define us; God’s grace does." — You Are Special

Lucado highlights the power of God’s grace and mercy, even in our failures. Samson's final act of redemption underscores that God can restore us, no matter how far we have fallen, and use our lives for His glory in spite of our shortcomings.

Tim Keller
"Samson's life is a story of tragic failure, but also of profound redemption. In his final moments, blind and bound, he trusted in God’s mercy, and God responded with strength and restoration. God can use even our greatest failures for His glory. Redemption does not come from our own power or goodness, but from God's mercy. Even when we feel that we are at our lowest point, God is still able to bring about His purposes through us."
— The Meaning of Marriage

Keller reflects on the way Samson’s story illustrates God's ability to redeem even our deepest failures. In Samson’s final act, we see that redemption comes not through our own effort, but through God’s mercy and power, proving that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace.

KEY POINTS to Reflect On:

Consequences of Repeated Mistakes

Verse: Judges 16:4-6, 15-21

Point: Persistent sin can lead to spiritual blindness and vulnerability

Reflection: Our choices have real consequences, but God's grace remains available

Discussion Prompt: Share a time when you experienced the consequences of repeated poor choices.

Moment of Humility

Verse: Judges 16:22

Point: Sometimes our lowest moments become opportunities for spiritual renewal

Reflection: God can work through our brokenness and weakness

Discussion Prompt: Describe a time when a difficult experience brought you closer to God.

Final Redemption

Verse: Judges 16:28-30

Point: God's purpose can be fulfilled even after significant personal failure

Reflection: It's never too late to turn back to God

Discussion Prompt: How have you seen God bring meaning out of seemingly hopeless situations?

CROSS-REFERENCE:

God's Restoration

Joel 2:25 (NIV): "I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten—the great locust and the young locust, the other locusts and the locust swarm—my great army that I sent among you."

Hope After Failure

1 John 1:9 (NIV): "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."

God's Transforming Power

Romans 8:28 (NIV): "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

Discussion Questions:

Personal Redemption

Question: When have you experienced God's ability to restore and rebuild?

Commentary: Encourage participants to share stories of hope and renewal. Emphasize that God's love is not limited by our past mistakes.

Learning from Failure

Question: How can our failures become opportunities for spiritual growth?

Commentary: Create a safe space for honest reflection. Discuss how humility and surrender can lead to transformation.

God's Unexpected Ways

Question: Can you recall a time when God worked in a completely unexpected way in your life?

Commentary: Focus on stories that highlight God's ability to bring purpose and meaning out of difficult circumstances.

Final Reflection:

God's mercy is deeper than our failures. His love continues to pursue us, even when we have strayed far from His path.

Session 12: The Depravity of Israel: Micah and the Benjamites- Judges 17:1-21:25
— Printable Handout

Title: "A Nation Astray: The Darkest Days"

Focus: The final chapters of Judges, revealing the moral and spiritual decline of Israel through the stories of Micah and the Benjamites.

Purpose Statement: To acknowledge the consequences of moral decay and to reaffirm the need for God's law and leadership.

READ: Judges 17:1-21:25

Audio: (NLT)

 

LEAD-IN QUESTIONS:

What does the phrase "In those days Israel had no king; everyone did what was right in their own eyes" (Judges 21:25) reveal about the state of Israel?

How does the book of Judges as a whole serve as a warning and a call to repentance for us today?

OVERVIEW::

In the final chapters of the Book of Judges, we see the nation of Israel in a time of moral and spiritual chaos. Judges 17:1-21:25 recounts the stories of Micah, a man who set up his own idols, and the Benjamites, who committed horrific acts of violence and lawlessness. These chapters highlight the consequences of Israel’s refusal to follow God’s law and His leadership. The story demonstrates that when a society turns away from God’s commands, it leads to confusion, violence, and spiritual darkness. The phrase often repeated in these chapters is, "In those days Israel had no king," underscoring the chaos that arises when people abandon God’s rule.

Bible Quote: "In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit." (Judges 21:25, NIV)

Quote by a Teacher: As theologian John Stott once said, “A church that is not governed by the Word of God is a church on the road to ruin.” The book of Judges shows what happens to a nation that forgets or disregards God's leadership.

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU:

In Judges 17:1-6, Micah, an Israelite, sets up his own idols and hires a priest for his personal worship. It may surprise you that this man, an Israelite, would think it acceptable to worship in such a way. Israel was supposed to worship God alone, yet Micah’s actions highlight the deep spiritual decline in the nation. Even though Micah had the God-given instructions about how to worship, he chose to do it his own way, showing that the Israelites were no longer following God's commands. This reveals an important point: spiritual decay doesn’t always come from outright rebellion. It can begin with small compromises in how we live out our faith, like choosing to ignore God's clear direction and do things our own way. Over time, these small compromises can lead to deeper moral decay, just like we see in the nation of Israel in these final chapters of Judges.

CULTURE CONNECTION:

In today’s world, we also see the consequences of turning away from God’s law and leadership. Many people are choosing their own paths, doing what “seems right” to them, without considering God’s Word or His will. Just like Micah set up idols for personal worship, people today often make idols of things like wealth, success, or self-interest, putting them above God's ways. This is a form of moral decay that leads to confusion, frustration, and pain. The story of Israel's decline in Judges 17-21 challenges us to examine our own lives—are we allowing God to be the leader of our hearts and decisions? Or are we drifting into doing what "seems right in our own eyes," just as Israel did?

DEVOTIONAL ALLEGORY: When the Compass Breaks, A Lesson from History

In the late 1930s, Nazi Germany provided a chilling example of what happens when a society loses its moral compass. What began as small compromises gradually escalated into systemic cruelty, with ordinary people becoming complicit in extraordinary evil. Historians often ask: How could an educated, cultured nation drift so far from basic human decency?

The book of Judges offers a similar warning. The famous phrase "everyone did what was right in their own eyes" is not just a historical observation, but a timeless cautionary tale. Just as Germany's moral decline happened incrementally, Israel's spiritual decay occurred through small compromises that ultimately led to devastating consequences.

Our devotional thought today reminds us that moral decay is rarely sudden. It's a slow drift, like a boat quietly moving away from its anchor. Each small compromise weakens our spiritual foundations. When we replace God's guidance with personal convenience or cultural trends, we risk losing our way.

But here's the hope: Every generation has a choice. Just as some brave individuals stood against the tide of evil in dark historical moments, we too can choose to realign with God's principles. Redemption is always possible when we're willing to humble ourselves and return to foundational truths.

SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from the Old Testament- Judges 17:1-21:25

→Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

→Truth Matters in Worship →Micah created his own religion with idols and a self-appointed priest. Spiritual growth requires submitting to God's truth, not customizing faith. →Judges 17:3–6

→Leadership Anchored in God’s Law →“There was no king in Israel” is repeated to explain the chaos. Growth includes valuing godly leadership and living under God’s authority. →Judges 17:6; 18:1; 19:1; 21:25

→Guarding Against Religious Syncretism →The tribe of Dan stole Micah’s idols and priest, showing how easily false worship spread. Maturity requires rejecting a mix of truth and error. →Judges 18:14–31

→Upholding Justice, Not Retaliation →The horrific abuse of the Levite’s concubine and the resulting civil war reflect vengeance, not justice. Growth includes pursuing justice with wisdom. →Judges 19–20

→Grieving National Sin →After near-genocide of Benjamin, the tribes wept and sought reconciliation. Spiritually mature believers grieve over sin and seek restoration. →Judges 21:1–7, 15–23

→God’s Authority Over Personal Morality →The book ends with moral anarchy. Growth means submitting every area of life to God, not doing “what is right in our own eyes.” →Judges 21:25

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:

The final chapters of Judges paint a grim picture of a nation that has turned its back on God. The phrase, “In those days Israel had no king,” isn’t just about lacking a physical ruler—it’s a statement about spiritual chaos. The nation of Israel was in turmoil because they had forgotten the importance of God’s law, and this led to the breakdown of justice, morality, and community. But there is a bigger message here: When we ignore God's guidance, we will face consequences, both personally and as a community.

These chapters serve as a warning about the importance of following God’s law and recognizing His rightful place as King. Without God as our leader, we, too, can slip into spiritual decay, making decisions that seem right to us but lead to harm. It’s a reminder that God’s law isn’t restrictive; it’s protective. When we live according to His Word, we find life, peace, and order. The Israelites’ downfall in these chapters shows the tragic consequences of rejecting God’s rule and doing things our own way.

Ultimately, the decline of Israel in the last chapters of Judges points forward to the need for a King—one who will lead God’s people in truth and justice. This longing is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, the true King, whose kingdom is based on justice, mercy, and truth. We are reminded that true peace comes only when we allow God to lead our lives.

QUICK QUIZ::

What was the main problem in Israel during the time of Micah and the Benjamites, and how did it affect the nation?

How does the phrase "everyone did as they saw fit" (Judges 21:25) relate to today’s culture, and what can we learn from it?

NOTEABLE QUOTES:

Rick Warren

"When a nation forsakes the authority of God’s law, it descends into chaos, as seen in the final chapters of the book of Judges. The people of Israel, during the time of Micah and the Benjamites, were caught in a downward spiral of moral and spiritual decay. The story of these chapters is a sobering reminder that when individuals or entire nations reject God’s moral standards, they open themselves up to corruption, violence, and idolatry. This decline is not just a tragedy for Israel—it is a cautionary tale for all people. What happens when there is ‘no king in Israel’ is that everyone does what is right in their own eyes. The result is the breakdown of justice, peace, and true righteousness. But this is where we need to recognize the eternal relevance of God’s law. Without His guidance, we cannot navigate the complexities of life. Just as the Israelites needed God to lead them, so too do we. The darkness we see in these chapters calls us to a deeper commitment to God’s Word and a return to His leadership in our lives and in our societies." — The Purpose Driven Life

Warren speaks powerfully about the consequences of rejecting God's law, paralleling the moral decay in Judges with the decline seen in modern societies when they abandon God's guidance.

John Piper

"The last chapters of Judges are like a tragic snapshot of the consequences of sin in a society that has turned its back on God. Micah’s idolatry and the subsequent moral decline among the Benjamites illustrate a deeper issue—the issue of God’s absence in the lives of the people. When Israel had no true leadership, and no one was submitting to God’s law, they sank into lawlessness and depravity. The result was violence, corruption, and a complete breakdown of societal order. This picture, though ancient, is eerily familiar to us today. The decline of a nation or a people is not merely an external, political issue but one of the heart. We are seeing today, much like in the days of the Judges, what happens when people reject God’s Word as the foundation for their lives. The heart of the problem is the problem of the heart. And only God’s law can restore what has been lost. We need God’s Word, not just as a moral code but as the supreme guide for every area of life. What we see in Israel’s history is not just a tragic story from the past, but a warning to every generation to cling to God’s law and to submit ourselves under His leadership." — Desiring God

Piper points out the deeper spiritual issue at play in the moral decline of Israel—rejection of God’s law leads to a breakdown in every aspect of life. He urges readers to submit to God’s Word and leadership in order to avoid the same fate.

R.C. Sproul

"The final chapters of Judges present the moral and spiritual depravity of Israel in stark and unsettling detail. What we see is a nation that has lost its moral compass. Micah’s idolatry, along with the violent acts committed by the Benjamites, highlights the disintegration of morality and the collapse of divine order. The root cause of this decay is that Israel had ‘no king’—no authoritative leadership to uphold God’s law. In the absence of God's Word and the proper exercise of authority, the people of Israel were left to their own devices, and the consequences were disastrous. This is the inevitable result of human sinfulness when we turn away from God’s law. Without the discipline of God’s Word, individuals and societies alike will fall into confusion and lawlessness. This is not just an ancient story. It is a pattern that we can see playing out in the world around us today. The decline of nations, communities, and individuals begins when we stop submitting to the sovereign authority of God. What we desperately need is a return to God’s law and the wisdom that comes from a life lived under His authority." — The Holiness of God

Sproul underscores the need for divine authority and leadership, connecting the chaos of Judges to the results of turning away from God’s Word. He calls for a return to submitting to God’s law in order to restore order and righteousness.

KEY POINTS to Reflect On:

Spiritual Confusion

Verse: Judges 17:6

Point: When people ignore God's guidance, everyone does what seems right in their own eyes

Reflection: Moral relativism leads to social breakdown

Discussion Prompt: Share an example of how societal values can drift from fundamental moral principles.

Compromise of Worship

Verse: Judges 17:10-13

Point: Creating a version of faith that suits personal desires is dangerous

Reflection: True worship requires surrendering our own preferences

Discussion Prompt: How do we sometimes try to modify God's truth to fit our comfort?

Cycle of Violence

Verse: Judges 20:18-48

Point: Sin and conflict, when left unchecked, can lead to devastating consequences

Reflection: Revenge and moral compromise destroy communities

Discussion Prompt: Describe a time when you've seen how one wrong choice can escalate into larger conflicts.

CROSS-REFERENCE:

Importance of True Leadership

Proverbs 29:18 (NIV): "Where there is no revelation, people cast off restraint; but blessed is the one who heeds wisdom's instruction."

Moral Foundations

Romans 12:2 (NIV): "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."

Consequences of Moral Decay

Galatians 6:7-8 (NIV): "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life."

Discussion Questions:

Societal Values

Question: How have you seen moral standards change during your lifetime?

Commentary: Encourage participants to reflect on societal shifts without judgment. Focus on the importance of maintaining core spiritual values.

Personal Accountability

Question: When are we most tempted to justify our own actions instead of seeking God's guidance?

Commentary: Create a safe space for honest self-reflection. Discuss the importance of personal integrity and seeking God's wisdom.

Healing Community Divisions

Question: How can we be agents of healing in a divided society?

Commentary: Explore practical ways to bring compassion and understanding, rooted in spiritual principles.

Final Reflection:

When we lose sight of God's guidance, we risk losing our way. But God's love always provides a path back to restoration.

---

The Book of Judges recounts a turbulent time in Israel's history, when the nation repeatedly turned away from God, leading to cycles of oppression and deliverance. Among its memorable verses is, "In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes" (Judges 21:25), highlighting the chaos of the era.

---

1: The Unfinished Conquest- Judges 1:1-2:5

2: The Cycle Begins: Othniel and Ehud- Judges 2:6-3:31

3: Deborah and Barak: A Woman of Courage- Judges 4:1-5:31

4: Gideon's Hesitation and Victory- Judges 6:1-7:25

5: Gideon's Downfall and Abimelech's Wickedness- Judges 8:1-9:57

6: Tola and Jair: Minor Judges, Major Lessons- Judges 10:1-5

7: Jephthah's Rash Vow and Tragedy- Judges 10:6-12:7

8: Ibzan, Elon, and Abdon: More Minor Judges- Judges 12:8-15

9: Samson's Birth and Early Life- Judges 13:1-25

10: Samson's Weakness and Revenge- Judges 14:1-15:20

11: Samson's Captivity and Redemption- Judges 16:1-31

12: The Depravity of Israel: Micah and the Benjamites- Judges 17:1-21:25

---

The Book of Judges, found in the Old Testament, is a powerful narrative that chronicles a turbulent and transforming period in Israel's history. It covers roughly 350 years following the death of Joshua, during which Israel was without a central leader. Instead, God raised up judges to deliver His people from oppression and lead them back to faithfulness. However, the cycle in Judges is one of repeated failure: Israel falls into sin, faces oppression from foreign enemies, repents, and then is rescued by a judge, only to fall into sin again once the judge dies. This cycle of sin, suffering, salvation, and apostasy paints a vivid picture of both the human condition and the faithfulness of God in His constant desire to restore His people. As Judges 2:16 succinctly states, "Then the Lord raised up judges, who saved them out of the hands of these raiders."

One of the key themes in Judges is the struggle between Israel's obedience to God and the temptation to adopt the idolatrous practices of surrounding nations. The Israelites' repeated failure to remain faithful to God reflects the broader human tendency toward rebellion and disobedience, even in the face of God's miraculous deliverance. Renowned preacher Charles Spurgeon once remarked, “The book of Judges is a mirror of the heart of man; it shows us that we, too, are prone to wander from God, just as the Israelites did.” This mirrors the apostle Paul's warning in Romans 7:18: "For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh." The judges themselves, though often heroic figures, are imperfect, showing us that human leadership can never fully restore God's people—only God Himself can do that.

For modern Christians, the Book of Judges may seem distant and filled with violence, but it holds valuable lessons. While Christians are no longer under the old covenant, the Old Testament is still rich with spiritual truth, as it reveals the nature of God, His justice, and His mercy. Jesus Himself quoted from the Old Testament, and the apostle Paul spoke of it as "useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness" (2 Timothy 3:16). In our lives today, the Book of Judges serves as a reminder of the dangers of spiritual complacency and the importance of relying on God's guidance and leadership. As theologian John Stott wisely said, “The Old Testament is not a set of quaint or archaic stories; it is a history of God's dealings with His people, and it is of vital importance to Christians."

For those of us in the present, the story of the Israelites' struggle in Judges should challenge us to examine our own faithfulness. How often do we stray from God's ways, only to cry out for deliverance when life becomes difficult? How often do we forget His mighty works and turn to lesser things for satisfaction and security? The book also points us forward to Jesus, the ultimate Judge and Savior, who came not just to deliver us from physical enemies, but to save us from sin and death. As we study Judges, we are reminded that God's faithfulness in the past is a promise of His continued faithfulness today, and that our trust in Him is the only true path to peace and restoration.

"The history of Israel in the time of the Judges is a mirror for us today, showing the need for God's grace in every age." Charles Spurgeon

---

SESSION 1: Faithfulness Forgotten, The Cycle of Sin – Judges 1:1-2:5

Printable Download

---

TEXT

Israel Fights the Remaining Canaanites

1 After the death of Joshua, the Israelites asked the Lord, “Who of us is to go up first to fight against the Canaanites?”

2 The Lord answered, “Judah shall go up; I have given the land into their hands.”

3 The men of Judah then said to the Simeonites their fellow Israelites, “Come up with us into the territory allotted to us, to fight against the Canaanites. We in turn will go with you into yours.” So the Simeonites went with them.

4 When Judah attacked, the Lord gave the Canaanites and Perizzites into their hands, and they struck down ten thousand men at Bezek. 5 It was there that they found Adoni-Bezek and fought against him, putting to rout the Canaanites and Perizzites. 6 Adoni-Bezek fled, but they chased him and caught him, and cut off his thumbs and big toes.

7 Then Adoni-Bezek said, “Seventy kings with their thumbs and big toes cut off have picked up scraps under my table. Now God has paid me back for what I did to them.” They brought him to Jerusalem, and he died there.

8 The men of Judah attacked Jerusalem also and took it. They put the city to the sword and set it on fire.

9 After that, Judah went down to fight against the Canaanites living in the hill country, the Negev and the western foothills. 10 They advanced against the Canaanites living in Hebron (formerly called Kiriath Arba) and defeated Sheshai, Ahiman and Talmai. 11 From there they advanced against the people living in Debir (formerly called Kiriath Sepher).

12 And Caleb said, “I will give my daughter Aksah in marriage to the man who attacks and captures Kiriath Sepher.” 13 Othniel son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother, took it; so Caleb gave his daughter Aksah to him in marriage.

14 One day when she came to Othniel, she urged him to ask her father for a field. When she got off her donkey, Caleb asked her, “What can I do for you?”

15 She replied, “Do me a special favor. Since you have given me land in the Negev, give me also springs of water.” So Caleb gave her the upper and lower springs.

16 The descendants of Moses’ father-in-law, the Kenite, went up from the City of Palms with the people of Judah to live among the inhabitants of the Desert of Judah in the Negev near Arad.

17 Then the men of Judah went with the Simeonites their fellow Israelites and attacked the Canaanites living in Zephath, and they totally destroyed the city. Therefore it was called Hormah. 18 Judah also took Gaza, Ashkelon and Ekron—each city with its territory.

19 The Lord was with the men of Judah. They took possession of the hill country, but they were unable to drive the people from the plains, because they had chariots fitted with iron. 20 As Moses had promised, Hebron was given to Caleb, who drove from it the three sons of Anak. 21 The Benjamites, however, did not drive out the Jebusites, who were living in Jerusalem; to this day the Jebusites live there with the Benjamites.

22 Now the tribes of Joseph attacked Bethel, and the Lord was with them. 23 When they sent men to spy out Bethel (formerly called Luz), 24 the spies saw a man coming out of the city and they said to him, “Show us how to get into the city and we will see that you are treated well.” 25 So he showed them, and they put the city to the sword but spared the man and his whole family. 26 He then went to the land of the Hittites, where he built a city and called it Luz, which is its name to this day.

27 But Manasseh did not drive out the people of Beth Shan or Taanach or Dor or Ibleam or Megiddo and their surrounding settlements, for the Canaanites were determined to live in that land. 28 When Israel became strong, they pressed the Canaanites into forced labor but never drove them out completely. 29 Nor did Ephraim drive out the Canaanites living in Gezer, but the Canaanites continued to live there among them. 30 Neither did Zebulun drive out the Canaanites living in Kitron or Nahalol, so these Canaanites lived among them, but Zebulun did subject them to forced labor. 31 Nor did Asher drive out those living in Akko or Sidon or Ahlab or Akzib or Helbah or Aphek or Rehob. 32 The Asherites lived among the Canaanite inhabitants of the land because they did not drive them out. 33 Neither did Naphtali drive out those living in Beth Shemesh or Beth Anath; but the Naphtalites too lived among the Canaanite inhabitants of the land, and those living in Beth Shemesh and Beth Anath became forced laborers for them. 34 The Amorites confined the Danites to the hill country, not allowing them to come down into the plain. 35 And the Amorites were determined also to hold out in Mount Heres, Aijalon and Shaalbim, but when the power of the tribes of Joseph increased, they too were pressed into forced labor. 36 The boundary of the Amorites was from Scorpion Pass to Sela and beyond.

Chapter 2 - The Angel of the Lord at Bokim

1 The angel of the Lord went up from Gilgal to Bokim and said, “I brought you up out of Egypt and led you into the land I swore to give to your ancestors. I said, ‘I will never break my covenant with you, 2 and you shall not make a covenant with the people of this land, but you shall break down their altars.’ Yet you have disobeyed me. Why have you done this? 3 And I have also said, ‘I will not drive them out before you; they will become traps for you, and their gods will become snares to you.’”

4 When the angel of the Lord had spoken these things to all the Israelites, the people wept aloud, 5 and they called that place Bokim. There they offered sacrifices to the Lord.

---

OVERVIEW

This session introduces the historical context and recurring cycle in Judges: sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. It will help us understand more about spiritual amnesia and the importance of remembering God’s faithfulness.

Judges 1:1-2:5 describes the early period of the Israelites in the Promised Land after the death of Joshua. The Israelites inquire of the Lord about who should lead the battle against the Canaanites. God designates the tribe of Judah to go first. Judah allies with the tribe of Simeon to fight against the Canaanites and Perizzites, achieving various military victories. However, despite their initial successes, they fail to completely drive out the inhabitants of the land, which eventually leads to future conflicts and consequences.

The passage emphasizes both the Israelites' initial obedience and their subsequent incomplete obedience to God's commands. It sets the stage for the recurring cycles of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance that characterize the Book of Judges.

---

DISCUSSION POINTS

Think About This: Why is it important to learn from the past while still trusting God with the future?

Key Ideas:

The book of Judges begins after Joshua dies. The Israelites find it hard to fully take over the Promised Land because they only partly obey God (Judges 1:19). This leads to ongoing problems and sets the tone for the rest of the book.

"Delayed obedience is disobedience." - Charles Stanley

A major theme in Judges is how faithful God is, even though the Israelites keep disobeying Him. God stays true to His promises and sends leaders, called judges, to help them.

"Faithfulness is not doing something right once but doing it over and over again." - John MacArthur

The Israelites don’t drive out the Canaanites as God told them to, which shows the danger of letting sin stick around. This is like our own struggle with sin when we don’t fully trust God.

• Leadership Transition: The passage begins with the Israelites seeking guidance after Joshua's death. Consider the challenges and implications of leadership transitions in biblical times and compare them to modern leadership changes.

• Divine Guidance: The Israelites ask the Lord who should lead them into battle. This highlights their dependence on divine direction. Reflect on the importance of seeking guidance in decision-making today and how people interpret and apply this in their lives.

• Tribal Alliances: Judah and Simeon form an alliance to fight their enemies. Consider the significance of alliances and partnerships both in ancient times and in contemporary contexts. What are the benefits and potential pitfalls?

• Partial Obedience: Despite initial victories, the Israelites fail to fully drive out the Canaanites. Think about the consequences of partial obedience to God's commands and how this theme recurs throughout the Bible.

• Faith and Fear: Explore the tension between faith and fear in the Israelites' actions. How does this dynamic play out in the lives of believers today?

• Lessons from Failure: The passage foreshadows future difficulties due to incomplete obedience. What lessons can be drawn from these early failures, and how can they inform our understanding of perseverance and faithfulness?

---

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT

What did Israel do that was so wicked in God’s eyes? “They forsook the Lord . . . and worshiped various gods of the peoples around them.” Judges 2:17 describes this as committing adultery with other gods. Many other Bible passages also describe God’s people that way. The people often preferred to “trade in” the God of their salvation for other “saviors.”

Disloyalty, infidelity—“looking for love in all the wrong places”—brings harsh consequences: God turned Israel over to plunderers. God himself turned against them. God’s response makes sense. If you abandon God to seek the life of doing what is right in your own eyes, you can expect those eyes to lead you astray, with inescapable consequences.

Paul describes the consequences of lives driven by base passions: “they are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice” (Romans 1:29). Strangely enough, this debased mind seduces God’s people again and again: “As a dog returns to its vomit, so fools repeat their folly” (Proverbs 26:11).

The Israelites didn’t suffer because God had abandoned them; they suffered because God was looking after them. “The Lord disciplines those he loves” (Proverbs 3:12). It’s as if God was saying to later generations, “Be careful what your eyes wish for; you may get it.”

May the Spirit of Christ discipline our hearts to desire what is right in God’s eyes.

---

TAKE HOME

God wants us to fully trust and obey Him. When we only trust Him a little, we miss out on His full blessings. Think about where God might be asking you to trust Him more. How do your past wins and struggles influence your faith today?

---

SCRIPTURE RESEARCH

Inquiry of the Lord - In Judges 1:1, the Israelites inquire of the Lord to determine who should lead the fight against the Canaanites.

1 Samuel 23:2 – "He inquired of the Lord, saying, 'Shall I go and attack these Philistines?' The Lord answered him, 'Go, attack the Philistines and save Keilah.'"

Proverbs 3:5-6 – "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

Judah's Leadership Role - In Judges 1:2, the Lord selects the tribe of Judah to take the lead.

Genesis 49:8-10 – Jacob's blessing of Judah prophesies its leadership role: "The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet..."

Matthew 1:1-2 – Judah is listed in the genealogy of Jesus, highlighting its significant role in Israel’s history.

Partial Obedience and Compromise - Judges 1 highlights that many tribes failed to fully drive out the Canaanites as commanded by God (e.g., Judges 1:27-36).

Numbers 33:55 – "But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land, those you allow to remain will become barbs in your eyes and thorns in your sides."

Joshua 23:12-13 – A warning about the consequences of not fully driving out the nations: "If you turn away and ally yourselves with the survivors of these nations, they will become snares and traps for you."

The Angel of the Lord’s Rebuke - Judges 2:1-5 describes the Angel of the Lord rebuking Israel for their disobedience, reminding them of God's covenant.

Exodus 23:20-21 – "See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared. Pay attention to him and listen to what he says."

Psalm 78:10-11 – "They did not keep God’s covenant and refused to live by his law. They forgot what he had done, the wonders he had shown them."

Consequences of Disobedience - The Angel of the Lord warns that disobedience will lead to the remaining nations becoming a snare.

Deuteronomy 7:2-4 – God commands the Israelites to make no treaties with the inhabitants and destroy them completely: "Do not intermarry with them... for they will turn your children away from following me to serve other gods."

Judges 3:5-6 – Later, Israel's disobedience leads to intermarriage and idolatry: "The Israelites lived among the Canaanites... They took their daughters in marriage and gave their own daughters to their sons, and served their gods."

Weeping and Repentance - In Judges 2:4-5, the people weep and offer sacrifices to the Lord at Bokim.

2 Chronicles 7:14 – "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land."

Joel 2:12-13 – "Even now," declares the Lord, "return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning."

---

---

SESSION 2 - Cycle of Faithfulness and Disobedience - Judges 2:6-3:6

Printable Download

---

TEXT

Disobedience and Defeat

6 After Joshua had dismissed the Israelites, they went to take possession of the land, each to their own inheritance. 7 The people served the Lord throughout the lifetime of Joshua and of the elders who outlived him and who had seen all the great things the Lord had done for Israel.

8 Joshua son of Nun, the servant of the Lord, died at the age of a hundred and ten. 9 And they buried him in the land of his inheritance, at Timnath Heres in the hill country of Ephraim, north of Mount Gaash.

10 After that whole generation had been gathered to their ancestors, another generation grew up who knew neither the Lord nor what he had done for Israel. 11 Then the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord and served the Baals. 12 They forsook the Lord, the God of their ancestors, who had brought them out of Egypt. They followed and worshiped various gods of the peoples around them. They aroused the Lord’s anger 13 because they forsook him and served Baal and the Ashtoreths. 14 In his anger against Israel the Lord gave them into the hands of raiders who plundered them. He sold them into the hands of their enemies all around, whom they were no longer able to resist. 15 Whenever Israel went out to fight, the hand of the Lord was against them to defeat them, just as he had sworn to them. They were in great distress.

16 Then the Lord raised up judges, who saved them out of the hands of these raiders. 17 Yet they would not listen to their judges but prostituted themselves to other gods and worshiped them. They quickly turned from the ways of their ancestors, who had been obedient to the Lord’s commands. 18 Whenever the Lord raised up a judge for them, he was with the judge and saved them out of the hands of their enemies as long as the judge lived; for the Lord relented because of their groaning under those who oppressed and afflicted them. 19 But when the judge died, the people returned to ways even more corrupt than those of their ancestors, following other gods and serving and worshiping them. They refused to give up their evil practices and stubborn ways.

20 Therefore the Lord was very angry with Israel and said, “Because this nation has violated the covenant I ordained for their ancestors and has not listened to me, 21 I will no longer drive out before them any of the nations Joshua left when he died. 22 I will use them to test Israel and see whether they will keep the way of the Lord and walk in it as their ancestors did.” 23 The Lord had allowed those nations to remain; he did not drive them out at once by giving them into the hands of Joshua.

Chapter 3 - 1 These are the nations the Lord left to test all those Israelites who had not experienced any of the wars in Canaan 2 (he did this only to teach warfare to the descendants of the Israelites who had not had previous battle experience): 3 the five rulers of the Philistines, all the Canaanites, the Sidonians, and the Hivites living in the Lebanon mountains from Mount Baal Hermon to Lebo Hamath. 4 They were left to test the Israelites to see whether they would obey the Lord’s commands, which he had given their ancestors through Moses.

5 The Israelites lived among the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites and Jebusites. 6 They took their daughters in marriage and gave their own daughters to their sons, and served their gods.

---

OVERVIEW

Judges 2:6-3:6 captures a pivotal period in Israel's history, immediately following the death of Joshua. Initially, the Israelites continue to serve the Lord, remembering the mighty works He had done for them. However, as that generation passes away, a new generation arises that does not know the Lord or the deeds He performed for Israel. This generational shift marks the beginning of Israel's descent into idolatry and disobedience, as they begin to worship the Baals and other foreign gods.

The Lord's response to Israel's unfaithfulness is one of anger and disappointment. He allows them to be oppressed by their enemies, leading to great distress. Despite this, God’s mercy shines through as He raises up judges to deliver the Israelites from their oppressors. However, these moments of deliverance are short-lived; once a judge dies, the people quickly return to their corrupt ways, falling deeper into idolatry and rebellion. This cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance becomes a recurring theme throughout the Book of Judges.

To further test Israel's faithfulness, God decides not to drive out the remaining nations in Canaan immediately. Instead, these nations, including the Philistines, Canaanites, Sidonians, and Hivites, are left to test Israel and see whether they will obey the Lord's commands. Unfortunately, the Israelites fail this test, intermarrying with these nations and adopting their gods and practices. This disobedience sets the stage for ongoing struggles and highlights the need for repentance and steadfast faith in God.

This passage underscores the importance of faithfulness, the consequences of disobedience, and God's enduring mercy and patience with His people. It serves as a sobering reminder of the cyclical nature of sin and the continual need for divine guidance and deliverance.

---

DISCUSSION POINTS

Think About This: What happens when we forget the blessings and commands of God?

Generational Faithfulness and Forgetfulness:

Judges 2:6-10 speaks of a generation that did not know the Lord or what He had done for Israel. Consider the importance of passing on faith and values to the next generation. How can we ensure that the next generation remains faithful?

Consequences of Disobedience:

In Judges 2:11-15, the Israelites turn away from God and serve Baal and Ashtoreth. This leads to God's anger and their subsequent oppression by enemies. Reflect on the consequences of disobedience in our lives and the broader impact it can have on a community or nation.

The Role of Judges:

Judges 2:16-18 describes how God raised up judges to save the Israelites from their enemies. Think about the role of these judges and how they were both leaders and deliverers. What qualities made a good judge, and how can we apply those qualities in our lives today?

The Cycle of Sin and Deliverance:

Judges 2:19-23 outlines a recurring cycle where the Israelites fall into sin, face oppression, cry out to God, and are delivered by a judge, only to fall back into sin again. Explore this cycle and consider how it might be present in our own lives or in societal patterns.

Divine Testing:

Judges 3:1-4 mentions that God left certain nations in the land to test Israel's faithfulness. Consider the purpose of divine testing and how challenges in our lives can strengthen our faith and commitment.

The Need for Obedience and Repentance:

Judges 3:5-6 highlights the Israelites' intermarriage with other nations and their adoption of foreign gods, leading to further disobedience. Reflect on the importance of obedience and repentance in maintaining a faithful relationship with God.

Israel’s cycle of sin begins: rebellion, oppression, repentance, deliverance, and peace. This cycle serves as a warning of the consequences of turning away from God.

"Those who forget history are doomed to repeat it." - George Santayana

God raises judges to deliver His people, showing His mercy despite their sin. This underscores God’s readiness to forgive and restore us when we turn back to Him.

"God's grace meets us in our mess, not in our merit." - Tim Keller

The new generation grew up without knowing the Lord (Judges 2:10). This highlights the importance of passing on faith and the danger of spiritual neglect.

---

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT

God heard Israel’s cries of distress and often raised up judges to lead and save the people from their enemies. Through Ehud, Deborah, Gideon, and others, God gave the land rest for forty and even eighty years at a time (3:30; 5:31; 8:28). But after each of those saviors died, God’s people eagerly cozied up to a way of life that had brought nothing but misery before. Only a fool does the same thing again and again and expects different results (Proverbs 26:11).

We might think Israel’s addiction to its base desires could have been solved by better leadership. But the judges generally served well. The shepherds God sent to lead his people were not the problem; the sheep were the problem. Leave them alone for a few minutes, and they go their own way or distress themselves with greenery they shouldn’t eat.

God’s people, the sheep of an eternally patient Shepherd, need to be saved from themselves. And that demands a leadership that can get rid of the enemy forever, while also changing the way of disobedient sheep. Later, even though the great King David saved Israel from the Philistines, he and his royal descendants could not rescue God’s people from doing “what was right in their own eyes.”

As Christians, we know we are tempted to drink from the same old wells of misery again and again. But we also have hope, for Jesus Christ has delivered us from death and our self-inflicted misery.

---

TAKE HOME

Take-home Thought: Our hearts are prone to wander without constant reminders of God’s faithfulness. How can you remind yourself daily of God’s goodness? Reflect on ways to pass your faith on to the next generation so they remain grounded in God’s promises.

---

SCRIPTURE RESEARCH

Faithfulness of the Previous Generation - Judges 2:6-10 highlights how the generation of Joshua served the Lord but the next generation turned away.

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 – A command to teach the next generation: "Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road..."

Abandonment of the Lord - Judges 2:11-13 describes how the Israelites abandoned God and worshiped Baal and other gods.

Exodus 20:3-5 – "You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything..."

Jeremiah 2:13 – "My people have committed two sins: They have forsaken me, the spring of living water, and have dug their own cisterns, broken cisterns that cannot hold water."

God's Anger and Judgment - Judges 2:14-15 shows that God's anger burns against Israel, and He allows them to be oppressed by their enemies.

Deuteronomy 31:16-17 – "And the Lord said to Moses: 'These people will soon prostitute themselves to the foreign gods of the land... and I will hide my face from them, and they will be destroyed.'"

Psalm 7:11-12 – "God is a righteous judge, a God who displays his wrath every day."

God Raises Judges as Deliverers - Judges 2:16-19 explains how God raises judges to deliver Israel from their oppressors, yet the people repeatedly fall back into sin after the judge's death.

Nehemiah 9:27 – "So you delivered them into the hands of their enemies... But when they were oppressed they cried out to you. From heaven you heard them, and in your great compassion you gave them deliverers."

2 Chronicles 15:3-4 – "For a long time Israel was without the true God... But in their distress they turned to the Lord, the God of Israel, and sought him, and he was found by them."

Testing of Israel Judges 2:20–3:6 shows that God left some nations to test Israel, to see whether they would obey His commands.

Exodus 23:29-30 – "But I will not drive them out in a single year... Little by little I will drive them out before you, until you have increased enough to take possession of the land."

Deuteronomy 8:2 – "Remember how the Lord your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands."

James 1:2-3 – "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance."

Intermarriage and Idolatry - Judges 3:5-6 describes Israel living among the Canaanite nations, intermarrying with them, and adopting their gods.

Exodus 34:15-16 – "Be careful not to make a treaty with those who live in the land... and when you choose some of their daughters as wives for your sons, and those daughters prostitute themselves to their gods, they will lead your sons to do the same."

1 Kings 11:1-2 – "King Solomon, however, loved many foreign women... They were from nations about which the Lord had told the Israelites, 'You must not intermarry with them, because they will surely turn your hearts after their gods.'"

---

---

SESSION 3 - God’s mercy, the importance of repentance - Judges 3:7-31

Printable Download

---

TEXT

Othniel

7 The Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord; they forgot the Lord their God and served the Baals and the Asherahs. 8 The anger of the Lord burned against Israel so that he sold them into the hands of Cushan-Rishathaim king of Aram Naharaim, to whom the Israelites were subject for eight years. 9 But when they cried out to the Lord, he raised up for them a deliverer, Othniel son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother, who saved them. 10 The Spirit of the Lord came on him, so that he became Israel’s judge and went to war. The Lord gave Cushan-Rishathaim king of Aram into the hands of Othniel, who overpowered him. 11 So the land had peace for forty years, until Othniel son of Kenaz died.

Ehud

12 Again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord, and because they did this evil the Lord gave Eglon king of Moab power over Israel. 13 Getting the Ammonites and Amalekites to join him, Eglon came and attacked Israel, and they took possession of the City of Palms. 14 The Israelites were subject to Eglon king of Moab for eighteen years.

15 Again the Israelites cried out to the Lord, and he gave them a deliverer—Ehud, a left-handed man, the son of Gera the Benjamite. The Israelites sent him with tribute to Eglon king of Moab. 16 Now Ehud had made a double-edged sword about a cubit long, which he strapped to his right thigh under his clothing. 17 He presented the tribute to Eglon king of Moab, who was a very fat man. 18 After Ehud had presented the tribute, he sent on their way those who had carried it. 19 But on reaching the stone images near Gilgal he himself went back to Eglon and said, “Your Majesty, I have a secret message for you.”

The king said to his attendants, “Leave us!” And they all left.

20 Ehud then approached him while he was sitting alone in the upper room of his palace and said, “I have a message from God for you.” As the king rose from his seat, 21 Ehud reached with his left hand, drew the sword from his right thigh and plunged it into the king’s belly. 22 Even the handle sank in after the blade, and his bowels discharged. Ehud did not pull the sword out, and the fat closed in over it. 23 Then Ehud went out to the porch; he shut the doors of the upper room behind him and locked them.

24 After he had gone, the servants came and found the doors of the upper room locked. They said, “He must be relieving himself in the inner room of the palace.” 25 They waited to the point of embarrassment, but when he did not open the doors of the room, they took a key and unlocked them. There they saw their lord fallen to the floor, dead.

26 While they waited, Ehud got away. He passed by the stone images and escaped to Seirah. 27 When he arrived there, he blew a trumpet in the hill country of Ephraim, and the Israelites went down with him from the hills, with him leading them.

28 “Follow me,” he ordered, “for the Lord has given Moab, your enemy, into your hands.” So they followed him down and took possession of the fords of the Jordan that led to Moab; they allowed no one to cross over. 29 At that time they struck down about ten thousand Moabites, all vigorous and strong; not one escaped. 30 That day Moab was made subject to Israel, and the land had peace for eighty years.

Shamgar

31 After Ehud came Shamgar son of Anath, who struck down six hundred Philistines with an oxgoad. He too saved Israel.

---

OVERVIEW

Judges 3:7–31 introduces the recurring pattern of Israel’s history during the period of the judges: sin, oppression, repentance, deliverance, and a return to sin. This section highlights the actions of three judges—Othniel, Ehud, and Shamgar—whom God raised up to deliver Israel from their enemies.

Othniel: The First Judge (Judges 3:7-11)

The passage begins with the Israelites doing evil in the eyes of the Lord by worshiping Baals and Asherahs, abandoning their covenant with God. As a result, God allows them to be oppressed by Cushan-Rishathaim, king of Aram Naharaim, for eight years. In their distress, the Israelites cry out to God, who raises Othniel, the son of Kenaz, as their deliverer. Empowered by the Spirit of the Lord, Othniel leads Israel to victory, and the land experiences peace for 40 years. This story underscores God’s willingness to forgive and deliver His people when they repent.

Ehud: Deliverance from Moab (Judges 3:12-30)

After Othniel’s death, the Israelites again fall into sin, leading to 18 years of oppression under Eglon, king of Moab, who allied with the Ammonites and Amalekites to subdue Israel. In response to Israel’s cries, God raises Ehud, a left-handed man from the tribe of Benjamin, to deliver them. Ehud devises a daring plan, secretly carrying a double-edged sword to assassinate Eglon during a private audience. His unexpected use of his left hand allows him to catch Eglon off guard. After slaying the king, Ehud escapes, rallies the Israelites, and leads them to defeat 10,000 Moabite warriors, securing peace for 80 years. This account highlights God’s use of unexpected means and individuals to fulfill His purposes.

Shamgar: A Brief Mention (Judges 3:31)

The chapter concludes with a brief mention of Shamgar, another deliverer who struck down 600 Philistines with an oxgoad, saving Israel. Though little detail is provided, Shamgar’s story illustrates how God empowered individuals to protect His people, often using unconventional tools and methods.

This section of Judges emphasizes the Israelites’ repeated cycle of disobedience and God’s faithfulness in raising deliverers to rescue them. It highlights God’s mercy, the importance of repentance, and His ability to use unlikely individuals and methods to accomplish His purposes. Despite Israel's recurring failures, God’s grace and commitment to His covenant with His people remain evident throughout.

---

DISCUSSION POINTS

Think About This: How does God use unlikely people to fulfill His purposes?

Othniel, Ehud, and Shamgar: God’s deliverers come from unexpected places. Each judge’s story demonstrates that God’s power works through human weakness and unexpected circumstances.

"God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called." - Rick Warren

Ehud’s story (3:12-30) reminds us of God’s creative and sovereign ways. Despite his disability, Ehud’s courage and cunning lead to Israel’s deliverance.

Shamgar’s brief mention (3:31) illustrates how God can use even a single act of faith to make a significant impact.

1. Disobedience leads to judgment (Exodus 20:3-5; Deuteronomy 28:15).

2. Repentance brings deliverance (Psalm 34:17; Nehemiah 9:27).

3. God empowers unlikely individuals for His purposes (1 Corinthians 1:27; Judges 7:7).

4. Rest follows deliverance as a sign of God’s faithfulness (Joshua 21:44; Hebrews 4:9-10).

---

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT

The book of Judges relates one disheartening story of failure after another. Over and over, we see a vicious cycle in which Israel, settling into the promised land, slides back and forth from faith and obedience to lack of trust and disobedience, followed by oppression from the surrounding nations. 

That’s the scene in our passage. After Joshua, who had led the people of Israel into the promised land, died, the writer tells us, “The Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord; they forgot the Lord their God and served the Baals and the Asherahs.” Those were the gods of their neighbors.

But God in his mercy and patience poured out his Spirit on Othniel, Caleb’s nephew, to deliver the people from the hand of their oppressors. Othniel, “lion of God,” became a mighty hero of Israel. After his victory over Israel’s oppressors, Othniel ruled over Israel for forty years, a period of rest and prosperity. Following his death, however, the people again rejected God, became oppressed, and cried out to God, who delivered them through other Spirit-filled leaders, such as Deborah, Gideon, and Samson.

At Pentecost, God poured out his Spirit on all his people, including you and me. We too fight battles, sometimes failing, sometimes succeeding. Take courage today in the Spirit’s power, asking for God’s help in all you think, say, and do.

---

TAKE HOME

No matter how ordinary or limited you feel, God can use you for extraordinary purposes. Are you open to His call? Trust that your unique experiences and challenges are part of His plan.

---

SCRIPTURE RESEARCH

Judges 3:7–31 highlights themes of disobedience, divine judgment, repentance, deliverance, and God’s use of unexpected individuals to accomplish His purposes. Below are supporting NIV scriptures that reinforce or echo these themes:

1. Israel’s Disobedience and Idolatry - In Judges 3:7, Israel does evil in the eyes of the Lord by forgetting Him and worshiping Baals and Asherahs.

Exodus 20:3-5 – "You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself an image... for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God."

Jeremiah 2:13 – "My people have committed two sins: They have forsaken me, the spring of living water, and have dug their own cisterns, broken cisterns that cannot hold water."

Psalm 106:35-36 – "They mingled with the nations and adopted their customs. They worshiped their idols, which became a snare to them."

2. God’s Anger and Judgment - In Judges 3:8, God allows Israel to be oppressed by Cushan-Rishathaim as punishment for their disobedience.

Deuteronomy 28:15, 25 – "If you do not obey the Lord your God... The Lord will cause you to be defeated before your enemies."

Psalm 81:11-12 – "But my people would not listen to me... So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts to follow their own devices."

Isaiah 59:2 – "But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear."

3. Repentance and God’s Deliverance - In Judges 3:9, Israel cries out to God, and He raises up Othniel as their deliverer.

Psalm 34:17 – "The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles."

Nehemiah 9:27 – "When they were oppressed, they cried out to you. From heaven you heard them, and in your great compassion you gave them deliverers."

Isaiah 30:18 – "Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion."

4. Empowerment by the Spirit of the Lord - Judges 3:10 highlights that the Spirit of the Lord came upon Othniel, enabling him to lead Israel to victory.

Numbers 27:18 – "So the Lord said to Moses, 'Take Joshua son of Nun, a man in whom is the spirit of leadership, and lay your hand on him.'"

1 Samuel 10:6 – "The Spirit of the Lord will come powerfully upon you... and you will be changed into a different person."

Zechariah 4:6 – "Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit," says the Lord Almighty.

5. Unlikely Deliverers and Unconventional Methods - In Judges 3:15-26, Ehud, a left-handed man, uses a hidden sword to assassinate Eglon. In Judges 3:31, Shamgar strikes down 600 Philistines with an oxgoad.

1 Corinthians 1:27-28 – "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong."

Exodus 4:10-12 – Moses protests his calling, but God equips him despite his perceived inadequacy.

Judges 7:7 – Gideon defeats the Midianites with just 300 men, illustrating God’s power through unlikely means.

6. Peace and Rest After Deliverance - Judges 3:11, 30 describes periods of peace after Othniel and Ehud deliver Israel.

Joshua 21:44 – "The Lord gave them rest on every side, just as he had sworn to their ancestors."

Isaiah 32:17-18 – "The fruit of that righteousness will be peace; its effect will be quietness and confidence forever. My people will live in peaceful dwelling places."

Hebrews 4:9-10 – "There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his."

Judges 3:7–31 reflects God’s justice and mercy, His use of ordinary people in extraordinary ways, and His enduring commitment to His covenant people.

---

---

SESSION 4 - God equips both Men and Women - Judges 4-5

Printable Download

---

TEXT

Chapter 4 - Deborah

1 Again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord, now that Ehud was dead. 2 So the Lord sold them into the hands of Jabin king of Canaan, who reigned in Hazor. Sisera, the commander of his army, was based in Harosheth Haggoyim. 3 Because he had nine hundred chariots fitted with iron and had cruelly oppressed the Israelites for twenty years, they cried to the Lord for help.

4 Now Deborah, a prophet, the wife of Lappidoth, was leading Israel at that time. 5 She held court under the Palm of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim, and the Israelites went up to her to have their disputes decided. 6 She sent for Barak son of Abinoam from Kedesh in Naphtali and said to him, “The Lord, the God of Israel, commands you: ‘Go, take with you ten thousand men of Naphtali and Zebulun and lead them up to Mount Tabor. 7 I will lead Sisera, the commander of Jabin’s army, with his chariots and his troops to the Kishon River and give him into your hands.’”

8 Barak said to her, “If you go with me, I will go; but if you don’t go with me, I won’t go.”

9 “Certainly I will go with you,” said Deborah. “But because of the course you are taking, the honor will not be yours, for the Lord will deliver Sisera into the hands of a woman.” So Deborah went with Barak to Kedesh. 10 There Barak summoned Zebulun and Naphtali, and ten thousand men went up under his command. Deborah also went up with him.

11 Now Heber the Kenite had left the other Kenites, the descendants of Hobab, Moses’ brother-in-law, and pitched his tent by the great tree in Zaanannim near Kedesh.

12 When they told Sisera that Barak son of Abinoam had gone up to Mount Tabor, 13 Sisera summoned from Harosheth Haggoyim to the Kishon River all his men and his nine hundred chariots fitted with iron.

14 Then Deborah said to Barak, “Go! This is the day the Lord has given Sisera into your hands. Has not the Lord gone ahead of you?” So Barak went down Mount Tabor, with ten thousand men following him. 15 At Barak’s advance, the Lord routed Sisera and all his chariots and army by the sword, and Sisera got down from his chariot and fled on foot.

16 Barak pursued the chariots and army as far as Harosheth Haggoyim, and all Sisera’s troops fell by the sword; not a man was left. 17 Sisera, meanwhile, fled on foot to the tent of Jael, the wife of Heber the Kenite, because there was an alliance between Jabin king of Hazor and the family of Heber the Kenite.

18 Jael went out to meet Sisera and said to him, “Come, my lord, come right in. Don’t be afraid.” So he entered her tent, and she covered him with a blanket.

19 “I’m thirsty,” he said. “Please give me some water.” She opened a skin of milk, gave him a drink, and covered him up.

20 “Stand in the doorway of the tent,” he told her. “If someone comes by and asks you, ‘Is anyone in there?’ say ‘No.’”

21 But Jael, Heber’s wife, picked up a tent peg and a hammer and went quietly to him while he lay fast asleep, exhausted. She drove the peg through his temple into the ground, and he died.

22 Just then Barak came by in pursuit of Sisera, and Jael went out to meet him. “Come,” she said, “I will show you the man you’re looking for.” So he went in with her, and there lay Sisera with the tent peg through his temple—dead.

23 On that day God subdued Jabin king of Canaan before the Israelites. 24 And the hand of the Israelites pressed harder and harder against Jabin king of Canaan until they destroyed him.

Chapter 5 - The Song of Deborah

1 On that day Deborah and Barak son of Abinoam sang this song:

2 “When the princes in Israel take the lead,
    when the people willingly offer themselves—
    praise the Lord!

3 “Hear this, you kings! Listen, you rulers!
    I, even I, will sing to the Lord;
    I will praise the Lord, the God of Israel, in song.

4 “When you, Lord, went out from Seir,
    when you marched from the land of Edom,
the earth shook, the heavens poured,
    the clouds poured down water.
5 The mountains quaked before the Lord, the One of Sinai,
    before the Lord, the God of Israel.

6 “In the days of Shamgar son of Anath,
    in the days of Jael, the highways were abandoned;
    travelers took to winding paths.
7 Villagers in Israel would not fight;
    they held back until I, Deborah, arose,
    until I arose, a mother in Israel.
8 God chose new leaders
    when war came to the city gates,
but not a shield or spear was seen
    among forty thousand in Israel.
9 My heart is with Israel’s princes,
    with the willing volunteers among the people.
    Praise the Lord!

10 “You who ride on white donkeys,
    sitting on your saddle blankets,
    and you who walk along the road,
consider 11 the voice of the singers at the watering places.
    They recite the victories of the Lord,
    the victories of his villagers in Israel.

“Then the people of the Lord
    went down to the city gates.
12 ‘Wake up, wake up, Deborah!
    Wake up, wake up, break out in song!
Arise, Barak!
    Take captive your captives, son of Abinoam.’

13 “The remnant of the nobles came down;
    the people of the Lord came down to me against the mighty.
14 Some came from Ephraim, whose roots were in Amalek;
    Benjamin was with the people who followed you.
From Makir captains came down,
    from Zebulun those who bear a commander’s staff.
15 The princes of Issachar were with Deborah;
    yes, Issachar was with Barak,
    sent under his command into the valley.
In the districts of Reuben
    there was much searching of heart.
16 Why did you stay among the sheep pens
    to hear the whistling for the flocks?
In the districts of Reuben
    there was much searching of heart.
17 Gilead stayed beyond the Jordan.
    And Dan, why did he linger by the ships?
Asher remained on the coast
    and stayed in his coves.
18 The people of Zebulun risked their very lives;
    so did Naphtali on the terraced fields.

19 “Kings came, they fought,
    the kings of Canaan fought.
At Taanach, by the waters of Megiddo,
    they took no plunder of silver.
20 From the heavens the stars fought,
    from their courses they fought against Sisera.
21 The river Kishon swept them away,
    the age-old river, the river Kishon.
    March on, my soul; be strong!
22 Then thundered the horses’ hooves—
    galloping, galloping go his mighty steeds.
23 ‘Curse Meroz,’ said the angel of the Lord.
    ‘Curse its people bitterly,
because they did not come to help the Lord,
    to help the Lord against the mighty.’

24 “Most blessed of women be Jael,
    the wife of Heber the Kenite,
    most blessed of tent-dwelling women.
25 He asked for water, and she gave him milk;
    in a bowl fit for nobles she brought him curdled milk.
26 Her hand reached for the tent peg,
    her right hand for the workman’s hammer.
She struck Sisera, she crushed his head,
    she shattered and pierced his temple.
27 At her feet he sank,
    he fell; there he lay.
At her feet he sank, he fell;
    where he sank, there he fell—dead.

28 “Through the window peered Sisera’s mother;
    behind the lattice she cried out,
‘Why is his chariot so long in coming?
    Why is the clatter of his chariots delayed?’
29 The wisest of her ladies answer her;
    indeed, she keeps saying to herself,
30 ‘Are they not finding and dividing the spoils:
    a woman or two for each man,
colorful garments as plunder for Sisera,
    colorful garments embroidered,
highly embroidered garments for my neck—
    all this as plunder?’

31 “So may all your enemies perish, Lord!
    But may all who love you be like the sun
    when it rises in its strength.”

---

OVERVIEW

Judges 4–5 recounts the story of Israel’s deliverance from oppression under King Jabin of Canaan and his commander Sisera. These chapters highlight God’s power and faithfulness, as well as His use of unexpected individuals, particularly women, to achieve His purposes. Judges 4 provides the historical narrative, while Judges 5, known as the Song of Deborah, offers a poetic retelling of the events.

Judges 4: The Narrative

Israel falls into sin again after the death of Ehud, and God allows Jabin, king of Canaan, to oppress them for 20 years. His commander, Sisera, leads a powerful army with 900 iron chariots, rendering Israel helpless. In their distress, the Israelites cry out to God, who raises Deborah, a prophetess and judge, to deliver them. Deborah calls Barak to lead an army against Sisera, but Barak hesitates and insists Deborah accompany him. She agrees but prophesies that the honor of defeating Sisera will go to a woman.

Under Deborah’s leadership, Barak gathers an army and defeats Sisera’s forces at the Kishon River with divine intervention causing Sisera’s army to panic. Sisera flees on foot and seeks refuge in the tent of Jael, a Kenite woman. Jael ultimately kills Sisera by driving a tent peg through his head while he sleeps, fulfilling Deborah’s prophecy. This victory leads to the eventual destruction of Jabin and brings peace to the land.

Judges 5: The Song of Deborah

Judges 5 is a celebratory hymn that praises God for His deliverance. Deborah and Barak recount how God fought for Israel, using natural elements like the stars and the Kishon River to aid in battle. The song highlights the courage of those who answered the call to fight and rebukes the tribes that failed to join. It also honors Jael’s bravery in defeating Sisera and reflects on the irony of Sisera’s mother waiting in vain for his return.

The Song of Deborah emphasizes God’s sovereignty and the unity of His people when they trust in Him. It concludes with a prayer for God’s enemies to perish and for those who love Him to shine like the rising sun, followed by the note that the land had peace for 40 years.

---

DISCUSSION POINTS

Think About This: What can we learn from Deborah’s leadership and Barak’s reliance on her faith?

Judges 4–5 showcases God’s faithfulness in responding to the cries of His people, even when they repeatedly fall into sin. It highlights the roles of Deborah and Jael, demonstrating that God uses both men and women to fulfill His plans. The story also emphasizes the importance of faith, obedience, and courage, as seen in Deborah’s leadership, Barak’s eventual trust in God, and Jael’s decisive action. Finally, the Song of Deborah reminds us to give God the glory for His victories and to reflect on the unity and courage required to follow Him.

Deborah’s wisdom and courage inspire Barak to obey God’s command. Her leadership reminds us that God equips both men and women for His purposes.

"The power of leadership is the power of influence." - John Maxwell

Barak’s hesitation to act without Deborah’s presence shows the value of spiritual partnership and encouragement.

The Song of Deborah celebrates God’s victory and faithfulness (Judges 5). It also serves as a reminder to praise God for His deliverance.

1. God uses unexpected people and methods: Deborah, Jael, and the natural elements show God’s power through unconventional means (1 Corinthians 1:27).

2. Courage and obedience are rewarded: Barak, Deborah, and Jael demonstrate that stepping out in faith brings victory (Joshua 1:9).

3. God fights for His people: The victory is ultimately attributed to God’s intervention (2 Chronicles 20:15).

4. Celebrating God’s deliverance: The Song of Deborah reminds us to give praise and glory to God for His works (Psalm 98:1).

This narrative of deliverance emphasizes God’s sovereignty, the role of faith and courage, and the importance of giving God the glory for His victories.

---

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT

It is not wise to rejoice at the downfall of enemies, “or the Lord will see and disapprove and turn his wrath away from them” (Proverbs 24:17-18). But Deborah and Barak do exactly that with their terrible praise of Jael: “She struck . . . she crushed . . . she shattered. . . .” Likewise, they speak of their enemy: “he sank, he fell . . . he lay . . . dead.” Jael is described as the “most blessed of women.”

But Deborah and Barak also call on the kings of the earth (5:3) to fear the great King of all the earth. Their song boasts not of Israel’s victories but the Lord’s, by his strangely designed saviors: “So may all your enemies perish, Lord!” The enemies of God’s people were never merely flesh and blood. They always were and continue to be powers and authorities and spiritual forces of evil (Ephesians 6:12) that refuse to submit to the Lord and his anointed one, Jesus Christ (Psalm 2:1-3).

Deliverance from the powers that persecute God’s people is messy because the ancient adversary “prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). That’s why Deborah, Barak, and the angel in Revelation 18 rejoice in God’s victories over the adversary.

Killing the works of the flesh (our sinful nature)—impurity, hatred, jealousy—is messy and impossible for us to do, but the Holy Spirit will strike, crush, and shatter them (Galatians 5:16-25). And they will be as powerless as Sisera in Jael’s tent.

---

TAKE HOME

No matter how weak or ordinary we may feel, God can use us to accomplish His purposes. We just need to be willing to follow His lead and trust in His strength.

God can work through anyone willing to trust Him. How can you influence others by trusting and following God today? Consider how your faith can inspire courage in those around you.

---

SCRIPTURE RESEARCH

Judges 4–5 narrates the story of Deborah and Barak, highlighting God's deliverance of Israel through unexpected means, including the bravery of women like Deborah and Jael. It also includes the poetic retelling of the event in the "Song of Deborah" in Judges 5. Here are supporting NIV scriptures for the key themes in these chapters:

1. God Raises Deborah as a Judge and Prophetess - In Judges 4:4-5, Deborah is described as a prophetess and judge, leading Israel during a time of oppression.

Exodus 15:20-21 – Miriam, a prophetess, leads the Israelites in a song of victory after crossing the Red Sea.

2 Kings 22:14-15 – Huldah, a prophetess, delivers God's message to King Josiah during a period of reform.

Isaiah 3:1-2 – Lists leaders God appoints, including prophets and counselors, to guide His people.

2. Israel's Oppression Under Jabin and Sisera - Judges 4:2-3 describes Israel’s oppression under King Jabin and his commander Sisera, as well as their cry for help.

Exodus 2:23-25 – The Israelites groan under their oppression in Egypt, and God hears their cry.

Psalm 34:17 – "The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles."

Nehemiah 9:27 – "When they were oppressed, they cried out to you. From heaven you heard them, and in your great compassion, you gave them deliverers."

3. Deborah’s Leadership and Barak’s Reluctance - In Judges 4:6-9, Deborah calls Barak to lead Israel into battle. When Barak hesitates, Deborah agrees to go with him but prophesies that the victory will go to a woman.

Joshua 1:9 – "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

Exodus 4:13-14 – Moses hesitates to accept God’s calling, and God provides Aaron to assist him.

Isaiah 41:10 – "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God."

4. God’s Power in Battle - In Judges 4:15, God causes Sisera’s army to panic, leading to their defeat. Judges 5:20-21 poetically attributes the victory to divine intervention, including the stars and the Kishon River.

Exodus 14:27-28 – God destroys Pharaoh’s army in the Red Sea, showing His direct intervention in battle.

Psalm 124:8 – "Our help is in the name of the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth."

2 Chronicles 20:15 – "For the battle is not yours, but God’s."

5. Jael’s Courage and Victory Over Sisera - Judges 4:17-22 highlights Jael’s bravery in killing Sisera, fulfilling Deborah’s prophecy that a woman would claim the honor.

Exodus 1:17, 20-21 – The Hebrew midwives defy Pharaoh’s orders and save Israelite babies, demonstrating courage and loyalty to God.

Judges 9:53 – A woman drops a millstone on Abimelek’s head, showing women as instruments of God’s deliverance.

1 Samuel 17:50-51 – David, an unlikely hero, defeats Goliath with courage and trust in God.

6. The Song of Deborah (Judges 5) - Judges 5 is a song celebrating God’s victory, praising those who obeyed and condemning those who held back.

Exodus 15:1-18 – The Song of Moses and Miriam celebrates God’s deliverance after the Red Sea crossing.

Psalm 98:1 – "Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things; his right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him."

Revelation 15:3-4 – The Song of the Lamb celebrates God’s ultimate victory and justice.

7. Rest After Deliverance - Judges 5:31 concludes with the land having peace for 40 years.

Joshua 21:44 – "The Lord gave them rest on every side, just as he had sworn to their ancestors."

Psalm 46:9 – "He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth."

Hebrews 4:9-10 – The ultimate rest for God’s people is through faith in Him.

---

---

SESSION 5 - Overcome Fear and Weakness - Judges 6-7

Printable Download

---

TEXT

Chapter 6 - Gideon

1 The Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord, and for seven years he gave them into the hands of the Midianites. 2 Because the power of Midian was so oppressive, the Israelites prepared shelters for themselves in mountain clefts, caves and strongholds. 3 Whenever the Israelites planted their crops, the Midianites, Amalekites and other eastern peoples invaded the country. 4 They camped on the land and ruined the crops all the way to Gaza and did not spare a living thing for Israel, neither sheep nor cattle nor donkeys. 5 They came up with their livestock and their tents like swarms of locusts. It was impossible to count them or their camels; they invaded the land to ravage it. 6 Midian so impoverished the Israelites that they cried out to the Lord for help.

7 When the Israelites cried out to the Lord because of Midian, 8 he sent them a prophet, who said, “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: I brought you up out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. 9 I rescued you from the hand of the Egyptians. And I delivered you from the hand of all your oppressors; I drove them out before you and gave you their land. 10 I said to you, ‘I am the Lord your God; do not worship the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you live.’ But you have not listened to me.”

11 The angel of the Lord came and sat down under the oak in Ophrah that belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, where his son Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress to keep it from the Midianites. 12 When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.”

13 “Pardon me, my lord,” Gideon replied, “but if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all his wonders that our ancestors told us about when they said, ‘Did not the Lord bring us up out of Egypt?’ But now the Lord has abandoned us and given us into the hand of Midian.”

14 The Lord turned to him and said, “Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?”

15 “Pardon me, my lord,” Gideon replied, “but how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family.”

16 The Lord answered, “I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites, leaving none alive.”

17 Gideon replied, “If now I have found favor in your eyes, give me a sign that it is really you talking to me. 18 Please do not go away until I come back and bring my offering and set it before you.”

And the Lord said, “I will wait until you return.”

19 Gideon went inside, prepared a young goat, and from an ephah of flour he made bread without yeast. Putting the meat in a basket and its broth in a pot, he brought them out and offered them to him under the oak.

20 The angel of God said to him, “Take the meat and the unleavened bread, place them on this rock, and pour out the broth.” And Gideon did so. 21 Then the angel of the Lord touched the meat and the unleavened bread with the tip of the staff that was in his hand. Fire flared from the rock, consuming the meat and the bread. And the angel of the Lord disappeared. 22 When Gideon realized that it was the angel of the Lord, he exclaimed, “Alas, Sovereign Lord! I have seen the angel of the Lord face to face!”

23 But the Lord said to him, “Peace! Do not be afraid. You are not going to die.”

24 So Gideon built an altar to the Lord there and called it The Lord Is Peace. To this day it stands in Ophrah of the Abiezrites.

25 That same night the Lord said to him, “Take the second bull from your father’s herd, the one seven years old. Tear down your father’s altar to Baal and cut down the Asherah pole beside it. 26 Then build a proper kind of altar to the Lord your God on the top of this height. Using the wood of the Asherah pole that you cut down, offer the second bull as a burnt offering.”

27 So Gideon took ten of his servants and did as the Lord told him. But because he was afraid of his family and the townspeople, he did it at night rather than in the daytime.

28 In the morning when the people of the town got up, there was Baal’s altar, demolished, with the Asherah pole beside it cut down and the second bull sacrificed on the newly built altar!

29 They asked each other, “Who did this?”

When they carefully investigated, they were told, “Gideon son of Joash did it.”

30 The people of the town demanded of Joash, “Bring out your son. He must die, because he has broken down Baal’s altar and cut down the Asherah pole beside it.”

31 But Joash replied to the hostile crowd around him, “Are you going to plead Baal’s cause? Are you trying to save him? Whoever fights for him shall be put to death by morning! If Baal really is a god, he can defend himself when someone breaks down his altar.” 32 So because Gideon broke down Baal’s altar, they gave him the name Jerub-Baal that day, saying, “Let Baal contend with him.”

33 Now all the Midianites, Amalekites and other eastern peoples joined forces and crossed over the Jordan and camped in the Valley of Jezreel. 34 Then the Spirit of the Lord came on Gideon, and he blew a trumpet, summoning the Abiezrites to follow him. 35 He sent messengers throughout Manasseh, calling them to arms, and also into Asher, Zebulun and Naphtali, so that they too went up to meet them.

36 Gideon said to God, “If you will save Israel by my hand as you have promised— 37 look, I will place a wool fleece on the threshing floor. If there is dew only on the fleece and all the ground is dry, then I will know that you will save Israel by my hand, as you said.” 38 And that is what happened. Gideon rose early the next day; he squeezed the fleece and wrung out the dew—a bowlful of water.

39 Then Gideon said to God, “Do not be angry with me. Let me make just one more request. Allow me one more test with the fleece, but this time make the fleece dry and let the ground be covered with dew.” 40 That night God did so. Only the fleece was dry; all the ground was covered with dew.

Chapter 7 - Gideon Defeats the Midianites

1 Early in the morning, Jerub-Baal (that is, Gideon) and all his men camped at the spring of Harod. The camp of Midian was north of them in the valley near the hill of Moreh. 2 The Lord said to Gideon, “You have too many men. I cannot deliver Midian into their hands, or Israel would boast against me, ‘My own strength has saved me.’ 3 Now announce to the army, ‘Anyone who trembles with fear may turn back and leave Mount Gilead.’” So twenty-two thousand men left, while ten thousand remained.

4 But the Lord said to Gideon, “There are still too many men. Take them down to the water, and I will thin them out for you there. If I say, ‘This one shall go with you,’ he shall go; but if I say, ‘This one shall not go with you,’ he shall not go.”

5 So Gideon took the men down to the water. There the Lord told him, “Separate those who lap the water with their tongues as a dog laps from those who kneel down to drink.” 6 Three hundred of them drank from cupped hands, lapping like dogs. All the rest got down on their knees to drink.

7 The Lord said to Gideon, “With the three hundred men that lapped I will save you and give the Midianites into your hands. Let all the others go home.” 8 So Gideon sent the rest of the Israelites home but kept the three hundred, who took over the provisions and trumpets of the others.

Now the camp of Midian lay below him in the valley. 9 During that night the Lord said to Gideon, “Get up, go down against the camp, because I am going to give it into your hands. 10 If you are afraid to attack, go down to the camp with your servant Purah 11 and listen to what they are saying. Afterward, you will be encouraged to attack the camp.” So he and Purah his servant went down to the outposts of the camp. 12 The Midianites, the Amalekites and all the other eastern peoples had settled in the valley, thick as locusts. Their camels could no more be counted than the sand on the seashore.

13 Gideon arrived just as a man was telling a friend his dream. “I had a dream,” he was saying. “A round loaf of barley bread came tumbling into the Midianite camp. It struck the tent with such force that the tent overturned and collapsed.”

14 His friend responded, “This can be nothing other than the sword of Gideon son of Joash, the Israelite. God has given the Midianites and the whole camp into his hands.”

15 When Gideon heard the dream and its interpretation, he bowed down and worshiped. He returned to the camp of Israel and called out, “Get up! The Lord has given the Midianite camp into your hands.” 16 Dividing the three hundred men into three companies, he placed trumpets and empty jars in the hands of all of them, with torches inside.

17 “Watch me,” he told them. “Follow my lead. When I get to the edge of the camp, do exactly as I do. 18 When I and all who are with me blow our trumpets, then from all around the camp blow yours and shout, ‘For the Lord and for Gideon.’”

19 Gideon and the hundred men with him reached the edge of the camp at the beginning of the middle watch, just after they had changed the guard. They blew their trumpets and broke the jars that were in their hands. 20 The three companies blew the trumpets and smashed the jars. Grasping the torches in their left hands and holding in their right hands the trumpets they were to blow, they shouted, “A sword for the Lord and for Gideon!” 21 While each man held his position around the camp, all the Midianites ran, crying out as they fled.

22 When the three hundred trumpets sounded, the Lord caused the men throughout the camp to turn on each other with their swords. The army fled to Beth Shittah toward Zererah as far as the border of Abel Meholah near Tabbath. 23 Israelites from Naphtali, Asher and all Manasseh were called out, and they pursued the Midianites. 24 Gideon sent messengers throughout the hill country of Ephraim, saying, “Come down against the Midianites and seize the waters of the Jordan ahead of them as far as Beth Barah.”

So all the men of Ephraim were called out and they seized the waters of the Jordan as far as Beth Barah. 25 They also captured two of the Midianite leaders, Oreb and Zeeb. They killed Oreb at the rock of Oreb, and Zeeb at the winepress of Zeeb. They pursued the Midianites and brought the heads of Oreb and Zeeb to Gideon, who was by the Jordan.

---

OVERVIEW

Judges 6: Gideon's Calling and Preparation

Oppression by the Midianites:
The chapter begins by describing the dire circumstances of the Israelites, who had turned away from God. As punishment, God allows the Midianites to oppress them, forcing the Israelites to live in hiding. Their crops are regularly plundered, leaving them impoverished and desperate.

Israel’s Cry for Help:
The Israelites cry out to God, and He sends a prophet to remind them of their disobedience. The prophet recounts God’s past deliverances, emphasizing Israel's covenant unfaithfulness.

Gideon’s Divine Encounter:
Gideon is introduced as an unassuming man threshing wheat in a winepress to hide it from the Midianites. The Angel of the Lord appears, calling Gideon a "mighty warrior" and commissioning him to save Israel. Despite his initial doubt and feelings of inadequacy, Gideon accepts the call after receiving signs from God.

Tearing Down Idolatry:
As a first act of obedience, Gideon is commanded to destroy his father’s altar to Baal and the Asherah pole beside it. Gideon complies but does so at night due to fear of retaliation. This bold action earns him the nickname "Jerubbaal," meaning "Let Baal contend against him."

Judges 7: Gideon's Victory Over Midian

Reducing the Army:
God instructs Gideon to reduce his army to ensure that Israel recognizes the victory as God’s, not their own. From an initial 32,000 men, the army is whittled down to 300 through two tests: fear and drinking habits. This reduction underscores the theme of God’s power working through human weakness.

Divine Encouragement:
On the eve of battle, God reassures Gideon by allowing him to overhear a Midianite soldier’s dream, which foretells their defeat. This boosts Gideon’s confidence in God’s promise.

The Battle Strategy:
Armed with trumpets, torches, and jars, Gideon’s small band surprises the Midianite camp at night. The unconventional tactics sow chaos and fear, leading the Midianites to turn on each other in panic. The enemy is utterly defeated, and Israel is delivered.

---

DISCUSSION POINTS

Think About This: How does God help us overcome fear and weakness?

Gideon’s fear and doubts contrast with God’s reassurance (Judges 6:12). Despite his insecurities, God uses him mightily, showing that His power is perfected in weakness.

"God often uses the weakest to shame the strong." - Timothy Keller

God’s power is displayed through Gideon’s 300 men, not numbers or strength. The miraculous victory underscores that success comes from reliance on God, not human effort.

Gideon’s testing of God with the fleece shows God’s patience but also serves as a lesson in faith and trust.

God Calls Us in Our Weakness

In Judges 6:12, God calls Gideon a "mighty warrior," even though Gideon feels weak and unqualified. This shows that God sees our potential, not just our limitations.

"God doesn't call the qualified; He qualifies the called." – Rick Warren

God’s call on Gideon reminds us that He can use anyone willing to trust Him, no matter how weak they feel.

Faith Requires Action

Gideon starts small, tearing down his father’s altar to Baal (Judges 6:25-27). Obedience, even in small steps, is key to growing faith.

"Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase." – Martin Luther King Jr.

Gideon’s story teaches us that God honors even small steps of obedience.

Victory Belongs to the Lord

In Judges 7, God reduces Gideon’s army to just 300 men to show that the victory will come from Him, not human strength.

"When we are weak, we are strong because we are relying on God’s power." – Charles Stanley

God’s work in Gideon’s life reminds us that our success depends on God’s strength, not our own abilities.

The Cost of Idolatry:
Israel’s oppression serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God, while Gideon’s destruction of the Baal altar symbolizes the need for spiritual reform.

1. God’s Faithfulness: Despite Israel’s repeated disobedience, God hears their cries and raises a deliverer (Psalm 34:17).

2. Divine Empowerment: God chooses and empowers the unlikely and the weak to achieve His purposes (1 Corinthians 1:27).

3. Trust in God’s Power: Victory does not depend on human strength or numbers but on God’s intervention (Zechariah 4:6).

4. The Importance of Obedience: Even when fearful, obedience to God leads to deliverance (Joshua 1:9).

Judges 6–7 illustrates God’s grace, His use of ordinary people for extraordinary tasks, and His ability to achieve victory through faith and trust in Him.

---

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT

Where do we find heroes? We might try to find them in sports, movies, television, or the news. But what about in a winepress?

Gideon was threshing wheat in a most unlikely place. People usually separated wheat from chaff out in the open air so that breezes could blow the unwanted chaff away. But Gideon did not live in a “usual” time.

Israel had again fallen away from allegiance to God. So God was using the Midianites as an instrument of punishment. The Midianites plundered Israel and ravaged the land, destroying the crops and harvests. As a result, farmers threshed grain in places sheltered from an open view—in a winepress, for instance. It was a time of fear, and Gideon was a fearful man.

Sometimes people think heroes of faith have no fear, but that’s not true. Following God is often a journey that begins with an encounter in which God calls the fearful away from their fears. Do you hear the irony in God’s message to Gideon through his angel? “The LORD is with you, mighty warrior.”

How can we face our fears and join the journey of faith? By remembering that we are not alone. The Lord is with each one of us. Still today God desires to give that same message to us as ordinary people whom he calls for his extraordinary purposes.

---

TAKE HOME

Gideon’s story is a powerful reminder that God doesn’t need us to be perfect or strong—He needs us to trust Him. Where in your life is God asking you to step out in faith, despite fear or doubt? Remember that when you rely on Him, He will give you the strength to do what seems impossible.

God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness. Reflect on how trusting Him fully can lead to victory in your struggles.

---

SCRIPTURE RESEARCH

Judges 6–7 narrates the story of Gideon, focusing on Israel's deliverance from the Midianites. Key themes include God's faithfulness, the importance of obedience, divine empowerment, and God’s ability to achieve great victories with small, seemingly inadequate resources. Below are NIV scriptures that support or parallel the themes and events in Judges 6–7:

1. Israel’s Sin and Oppression - In Judges 6:1, the Israelites do evil in the eyes of the Lord, leading to oppression by the Midianites.

Deuteronomy 28:15, 29 – "However, if you do not obey the Lord your God... At midday you will grope about like a blind person in the dark. You will be unsuccessful in everything you do."

Nehemiah 9:26-27 – "But they were disobedient and rebelled against you; they turned their backs on your law... So you delivered them into the hands of their enemies."

Psalm 81:11-12 – "But my people would not listen to me... So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts to follow their own devices."

2. Crying Out to God and His Response - Judges 6:6-10 shows the Israelites crying out to God, and He responds by sending a prophet to remind them of His faithfulness and their disobedience.

Exodus 2:23-24 – "The Israelites groaned in their slavery and cried out... God heard their groaning and remembered his covenant."

Psalm 34:17 – "The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles."

Isaiah 59:1-2 – "Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save... But your iniquities have separated you from your God."

3. God Chooses Gideon - In Judges 6:11-16, God calls Gideon, a hesitant and fearful man, to deliver Israel, assuring him of His presence and power.

Exodus 3:10-12 – God calls Moses to deliver Israel from Egypt, assuring him, "I will be with you."

1 Samuel 16:7 – "The Lord does not look at the things people look at... The Lord looks at the heart."

1 Corinthians 1:27 – "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong."

4. Signs to Confirm God’s Will - Judges 6:36-40 describes Gideon’s request for signs involving a fleece to confirm God’s will.

Exodus 4:1-5 – God provides signs to Moses using his staff to confirm His call.

2 Kings 20:8-11 – Hezekiah asks for a sign, and God makes the shadow on the sundial move backward.

Luke 1:18-20 – Zechariah questions God’s promise, and the angel gives him a sign by striking him mute until the promise is fulfilled.

5. God’s Power Through Weakness - In Judges 7:2-8, God reduces Gideon’s army to just 300 men to ensure Israel knows the victory comes from Him.

Deuteronomy 20:1 – "When you go to war against your enemies and see horses and chariots... do not be afraid of them, because the Lord your God... will be with you."

2 Chronicles 14:11 – Asa prays, "Help us, Lord our God, for we rely on you, and in your name we have come against this vast army."

Zechariah 4:6 – "Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit," says the Lord Almighty.

6. Victory Over the Midianites - Judges 7:19-23 describes Gideon’s victory as God causes confusion in the Midianite camp, leading to their defeat.

Exodus 14:24-25 – God throws the Egyptian army into confusion during the crossing of the Red Sea.

2 Kings 7:6-7 – God causes the Arameans to hear the sound of a great army, leading them to flee.

Psalm 44:6-8 – "I put no trust in my bow, my sword does not bring me victory; but you give us victory over our enemies."

7. Fear and Obedience in Gideon - Gideon’s initial fear and eventual obedience reflect a journey of trust in God (Judges 6:25-27).

Joshua 1:9 – "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

Isaiah 41:10 – "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God."

Matthew 14:30-31 – Peter begins to sink when he fears, but Jesus reaches out to save him, teaching him to trust.

---

---

SESSION 6 - The Dangers of Forgetting God and Pursuing Selfish Ambition - Judges 8-9

Printable Download

---

TEXT

Chapter 8 - Zebah and Zalmunna

1 Now the Ephraimites asked Gideon, “Why have you treated us like this? Why didn’t you call us when you went to fight Midian?” And they challenged him vigorously.

2 But he answered them, “What have I accomplished compared to you? Aren’t the gleanings of Ephraim’s grapes better than the full grape harvest of Abiezer? 3 God gave Oreb and Zeeb, the Midianite leaders, into your hands. What was I able to do compared to you?” At this, their resentment against him subsided.

4 Gideon and his three hundred men, exhausted yet keeping up the pursuit, came to the Jordan and crossed it. 5 He said to the men of Sukkoth, “Give my troops some bread; they are worn out, and I am still pursuing Zebah and Zalmunna, the kings of Midian.”

6 But the officials of Sukkoth said, “Do you already have the hands of Zebah and Zalmunna in your possession? Why should we give bread to your troops?”

7 Then Gideon replied, “Just for that, when the Lord has given Zebah and Zalmunna into my hand, I will tear your flesh with desert thorns and briers.”

8 From there he went up to Peniel and made the same request of them, but they answered as the men of Sukkoth had. 9 So he said to the men of Peniel, “When I return in triumph, I will tear down this tower.”

10 Now Zebah and Zalmunna were in Karkor with a force of about fifteen thousand men, all that were left of the armies of the eastern peoples; a hundred and twenty thousand swordsmen had fallen. 11 Gideon went up by the route of the nomads east of Nobah and Jogbehah and attacked the unsuspecting army. 12 Zebah and Zalmunna, the two kings of Midian, fled, but he pursued them and captured them, routing their entire army.

13 Gideon son of Joash then returned from the battle by the Pass of Heres. 14 He caught a young man of Sukkoth and questioned him, and the young man wrote down for him the names of the seventy-seven officials of Sukkoth, the elders of the town. 15 Then Gideon came and said to the men of Sukkoth, “Here are Zebah and Zalmunna, about whom you taunted me by saying, ‘Do you already have the hands of Zebah and Zalmunna in your possession? Why should we give bread to your exhausted men?’” 16 He took the elders of the town and taught the men of Sukkoth a lesson by punishing them with desert thorns and briers. 17 He also pulled down the tower of Peniel and killed the men of the town.

18 Then he asked Zebah and Zalmunna, “What kind of men did you kill at Tabor?”

“Men like you,” they answered, “each one with the bearing of a prince.”

19 Gideon replied, “Those were my brothers, the sons of my own mother. As surely as the Lord lives, if you had spared their lives, I would not kill you.” 20 Turning to Jether, his oldest son, he said, “Kill them!” But Jether did not draw his sword, because he was only a boy and was afraid.

21 Zebah and Zalmunna said, “Come, do it yourself. ‘As is the man, so is his strength.’” So Gideon stepped forward and killed them, and took the ornaments off their camels’ necks.

Gideon’s Ephod

22 The Israelites said to Gideon, “Rule over us—you, your son and your grandson—because you have saved us from the hand of Midian.”

23 But Gideon told them, “I will not rule over you, nor will my son rule over you. The Lord will rule over you.” 24 And he said, “I do have one request, that each of you give me an earring from your share of the plunder.” (It was the custom of the Ishmaelites to wear gold earrings.)

25 They answered, “We’ll be glad to give them.” So they spread out a garment, and each of them threw a ring from his plunder onto it. 26 The weight of the gold rings he asked for came to seventeen hundred shekels, not counting the ornaments, the pendants and the purple garments worn by the kings of Midian or the chains that were on their camels’ necks. 27 Gideon made the gold into an ephod, which he placed in Ophrah, his town. All Israel prostituted themselves by worshiping it there, and it became a snare to Gideon and his family.

Gideon’s Death

28 Thus Midian was subdued before the Israelites and did not raise its head again. During Gideon’s lifetime, the land had peace forty years.

29 Jerub-Baal son of Joash went back home to live. 30 He had seventy sons of his own, for he had many wives. 31 His concubine, who lived in Shechem, also bore him a son, whom he named Abimelek. 32 Gideon son of Joash died at a good old age and was buried in the tomb of his father Joash in Ophrah of the Abiezrites.

33 No sooner had Gideon died than the Israelites again prostituted themselves to the Baals. They set up Baal-Berith as their god 34 and did not remember the Lord their God, who had rescued them from the hands of all their enemies on every side. 35 They also failed to show any loyalty to the family of Jerub-Baal (that is, Gideon) in spite of all the good things he had done for them.

Chapter 9 - Abimelek

1 Abimelek son of Jerub-Baal went to his mother’s brothers in Shechem and said to them and to all his mother’s clan, 2 “Ask all the citizens of Shechem, ‘Which is better for you: to have all seventy of Jerub-Baal’s sons rule over you, or just one man?’ Remember, I am your flesh and blood.”

3 When the brothers repeated all this to the citizens of Shechem, they were inclined to follow Abimelek, for they said, “He is related to us.” 4 They gave him seventy shekels of silver from the temple of Baal-Berith, and Abimelek used it to hire reckless scoundrels, who became his followers. 5 He went to his father’s home in Ophrah and on one stone murdered his seventy brothers, the sons of Jerub-Baal. But Jotham, the youngest son of Jerub-Baal, escaped by hiding. 6 Then all the citizens of Shechem and Beth Millo gathered beside the great tree at the pillar in Shechem to crown Abimelek king.

7 When Jotham was told about this, he climbed up on the top of Mount Gerizim and shouted to them, “Listen to me, citizens of Shechem, so that God may listen to you. 8 One day the trees went out to anoint a king for themselves. They said to the olive tree, ‘Be our king.’

9 “But the olive tree answered, ‘Should I give up my oil, by which both gods and humans are honored, to hold sway over the trees?’

10 “Next, the trees said to the fig tree, ‘Come and be our king.’

11 “But the fig tree replied, ‘Should I give up my fruit, so good and sweet, to hold sway over the trees?’

12 “Then the trees said to the vine, ‘Come and be our king.’

13 “But the vine answered, ‘Should I give up my wine, which cheers both gods and humans, to hold sway over the trees?’

14 “Finally all the trees said to the thornbush, ‘Come and be our king.’

15 “The thornbush said to the trees, ‘If you really want to anoint me king over you, come and take refuge in my shade; but if not, then let fire come out of the thornbush and consume the cedars of Lebanon!’

16 “Have you acted honorably and in good faith by making Abimelek king? Have you been fair to Jerub-Baal and his family? Have you treated him as he deserves? 17 Remember that my father fought for you and risked his life to rescue you from the hand of Midian. 18 But today you have revolted against my father’s family. You have murdered his seventy sons on a single stone and have made Abimelek, the son of his female slave, king over the citizens of Shechem because he is related to you. 19 So have you acted honorably and in good faith toward Jerub-Baal and his family today? If you have, may Abimelek be your joy, and may you be his, too! 20 But if you have not, let fire come out from Abimelek and consume you, the citizens of Shechem and Beth Millo, and let fire come out from you, the citizens of Shechem and Beth Millo, and consume Abimelek!”

21 Then Jotham fled, escaping to Beer, and he lived there because he was afraid of his brother Abimelek.

22 After Abimelek had governed Israel three years, 23 God stirred up animosity between Abimelek and the citizens of Shechem so that they acted treacherously against Abimelek. 24 God did this in order that the crime against Jerub-Baal’s seventy sons, the shedding of their blood, might be avenged on their brother Abimelek and on the citizens of Shechem, who had helped him murder his brothers. 25 In opposition to him these citizens of Shechem set men on the hilltops to ambush and rob everyone who passed by, and this was reported to Abimelek.

26 Now Gaal son of Ebed moved with his clan into Shechem, and its citizens put their confidence in him. 27 After they had gone out into the fields and gathered the grapes and trodden them, they held a festival in the temple of their god. While they were eating and drinking, they cursed Abimelek. 28 Then Gaal son of Ebed said, “Who is Abimelek, and why should we Shechemites be subject to him? Isn’t he Jerub-Baal’s son, and isn’t Zebul his deputy? Serve the family of Hamor, Shechem’s father! Why should we serve Abimelek? 29 If only this people were under my command! Then I would get rid of him. I would say to Abimelek, ‘Call out your whole army!’”

30 When Zebul the governor of the city heard what Gaal son of Ebed said, he was very angry. 31 Under cover he sent messengers to Abimelek, saying, “Gaal son of Ebed and his clan have come to Shechem and are stirring up the city against you. 32 Now then, during the night you and your men should come and lie in wait in the fields. 33 In the morning at sunrise, advance against the city. When Gaal and his men come out against you, seize the opportunity to attack them.”

34 So Abimelek and all his troops set out by night and took up concealed positions near Shechem in four companies. 35 Now Gaal son of Ebed had gone out and was standing at the entrance of the city gate just as Abimelek and his troops came out from their hiding place.

36 When Gaal saw them, he said to Zebul, “Look, people are coming down from the tops of the mountains!”

Zebul replied, “You mistake the shadows of the mountains for men.”

37 But Gaal spoke up again: “Look, people are coming down from the central hill, and a company is coming from the direction of the diviners’ tree.”

38 Then Zebul said to him, “Where is your big talk now, you who said, ‘Who is Abimelek that we should be subject to him?’ Aren’t these the men you ridiculed? Go out and fight them!”

39 So Gaal led out the citizens of Shechem and fought Abimelek. 40 Abimelek chased him all the way to the entrance of the gate, and many were killed as they fled. 41 Then Abimelek stayed in Arumah, and Zebul drove Gaal and his clan out of Shechem.

42 The next day the people of Shechem went out to the fields, and this was reported to Abimelek. 43 So he took his men, divided them into three companies and set an ambush in the fields. When he saw the people coming out of the city, he rose to attack them. 44 Abimelek and the companies with him rushed forward to a position at the entrance of the city gate. Then two companies attacked those in the fields and struck them down. 45 All that day Abimelek pressed his attack against the city until he had captured it and killed its people. Then he destroyed the city and scattered salt over it.

46 On hearing this, the citizens in the tower of Shechem went into the stronghold of the temple of El-Berith. 47 When Abimelek heard that they had assembled there, 48 he and all his men went up Mount Zalmon. He took an ax and cut off some branches, which he lifted to his shoulders. He ordered the men with him, “Quick! Do what you have seen me do!” 49 So all the men cut branches and followed Abimelek. They piled them against the stronghold and set it on fire with the people still inside. So all the people in the tower of Shechem, about a thousand men and women, also died.

50 Next Abimelek went to Thebez and besieged it and captured it. 51 Inside the city, however, was a strong tower, to which all the men and women—all the people of the city—had fled. They had locked themselves in and climbed up on the tower roof. 52 Abimelek went to the tower and attacked it. But as he approached the entrance to the tower to set it on fire, 53 a woman dropped an upper millstone on his head and cracked his skull.

54 Hurriedly he called to his armor-bearer, “Draw your sword and kill me, so that they can’t say, ‘A woman killed him.’” So his servant ran him through, and he died. 55 When the Israelites saw that Abimelek was dead, they went home.

56 Thus God repaid the wickedness that Abimelek had done to his father by murdering his seventy brothers. 57 God also made the people of Shechem pay for all their wickedness. The curse of Jotham son of Jerub-Baal came on them.

---

OVERVIEW

Lesson:

The stories of Judges 8-9 highlight the consequences of pride, ambition, and forgetting God’s role in victory. These chapters illustrate how human selfishness can lead to societal corruption and divine judgment.

The Price of Pride: From Victory to Violence A Study in Judges 8-9

In these chapters, we witness the stark transition from Gideon's triumph to tragedy, ultimately leading to the dark chapter of Abimelech's reign. This section provides powerful lessons about the corrupting influence of success and the generational impact of leadership choices.

Judges 8 opens with Gideon managing internal conflict as the Ephraimites complain about being left out of the initial battle. Though Gideon diplomatically resolves this situation, we see his character begin to shift. After pursuing and capturing the Midianite kings Zebah and Zalmunna, he takes revenge on the cities of Succoth and Penuel for refusing to help his troops. The chapter reveals how success begins to corrupt Gideon's heart:

• He creates a golden ephod that becomes a snare to Israel

• He takes many wives, leading to 70 sons

• He names one son Abimelech, meaning "my father is king" - despite earlier refusing to rule over Israel

• Though he verbally refuses kingship, his lifestyle becomes increasingly royal

Judges 9 then presents the tragic aftermath of Gideon's compromises through his son Abimelech's actions:

• Abimelech murders 69 of his brothers to seize power

• Only Jotham, the youngest, escapes and delivers a prophetic parable about the dangers of poor leadership

• Abimelech's brief three-year reign is marked by violence and oppression

• God sends an evil spirit between Abimelech and the people of Shechem

• The chapter concludes with Abimelech's ignoble death, killed by a millstone thrown by a woman

Key Themes:

1. The subtle progression from victory to pride to compromise

2. How a leader's personal choices affect future generations

3. The contrast between servant leadership and power-hungry authority

4. God's ultimate sovereignty in judging unrighteous leadership

The narrative serves as a sobering reminder that spiritual victory doesn't guarantee continued faithfulness, and that pride can destroy both individuals and communities. It challenges us to examine our own hearts and leadership motives.

---

DISCUSSION POINTS

Think About This: How does pride lead to destruction? How do pride and ambition corrupt even the most promising leaders, and what lessons can we learn from their downfall?

The conclusion of Gideon's story and the tragic tale of his son Abimelech.

Pride and the Corruption of Power (Judges 8:22-27)

How Gideon initially refuses to rule over Israel, saying "The LORD will rule over you"

Yet he creates a gold ephod that becomes an idol

Discussion question: "How can success and victory sometimes lead to spiritual compromise?"

The Cycle of Faithfulness and Apostasy (Judges 8:33-35)

After Gideon's death, Israel returns to Baal worship

They forget both God and Gideon's family

Discussion question: "Why do you think Israel kept falling back into idolatry? How does this relate to our own spiritual struggles?"

Family Legacy and Leadership (Judges 9:1-6)

Abimelech's violent path to power

The contrast between his father's refusal to be king and his own ambition

The murder of his 70 brothers

Discussion question: "What does this tell us about the dangers of seeking power for its own sake?"

Jotham's Parable (Judges 9:7-15)

The parable of the trees seeking a king

The noble trees (olive, fig, vine) refuse kingship

Only the thornbush accepts

Discussion question: "What does this parable teach us about leadership and service?"

Divine Justice (Judges 9:50-57)

Abimelech's violent death fulfills Jotham's curse

God's repayment of evil

Discussion question: "How does this chapter demonstrate God's justice while also showing the tragic consequences of sin?"

Key Verses for Discussion:

• "I will not rule over you, nor will my son rule over you. The LORD will rule over you." (Judges 8:23)

• "No sooner had Gideon died than the Israelites again prostituted themselves to the Baals." (Judges 8:33)

• "Let fire come out from Abimelech and consume the citizens of Shechem." (Judges 9:20)

Contemporary Applications:

1. The danger of spiritual pride after success

2. How power can corrupt even those with godly heritage

3. The importance of choosing godly leadership

4. The consequences of violence and ambition

5. God's sovereignty in bringing justice

---

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT

It’s strange that the leaders of Sukkoth were blind to God’s gifts. The Lord had used Gideon and a small, untrained army to rout the powerful hosts of Midian. It’s even stranger that the Sukkoth officials refused to feed Gideon’s troops. Gideon pressed on and captured the enemy. Then “he took the elders of the town and taught the men of Sukkoth a lesson by punishing them with desert thorns and briers” (8:16). Disloyalty brings its own reward.

The greatest gift of God is Jesus, our Savior, who has rescued us from sin and death. But what do we do with the gift of this Savior and the accompanying gifts of mercy and grace?

Jesus told his disciples a parable about the gifts of the kingdom; God expects his gifts to be appreciated and used, not ignored and hidden, as if buried in the ground. Are we grateful for and using God’s good gifts of mercy and grace—or are we disloyally hiding them away?

Disloyalty demonstrates a rejection of God’s gifts: whoever does not live out the gifts of the kingdom will lose them, Jesus told his disciples.

May the gift of Jesus Christ move us to gratitude for our rescue. Loyalty and dedication to God for his gifts of grace and mercy multiply those gifts—for all who witness God’s goodness in our lives. Thanks be to God!

---

TAKE HOME

Pride distorts our relationship with God and others. Where do you need to humble yourself before God? Consider how pride might be affecting your decisions or relationships.

---

SCRIPTURE RESEARCH

Leadership and Humility - In Judges 8:22-23, Gideon refuses to rule over Israel, stating that God should rule over them.

1 Samuel 8:7 - "And the Lord told him: 'Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king.'"

1 Samuel 12:12 - "But when you saw that Nahash king of the Ammonites was moving against you, you said to me, 'No, we want a king to rule over us'—even though the LORD your God was your king."

God's Justice and Vengeance - Judges 9:56-57 shows God's vengeance on Abimelech and the people of Shechem. This theme is reflected in:

Romans 12:19 - "Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: 'It is mine to avenge; I will repay,' says the Lord."

Consequences of Unfaithfulness - The people's turning away from God after Gideon's death (Judges 8:33-34) is reminiscent of:

Deuteronomy 31:16 - "And the Lord said to Moses: 'You are going to rest with your ancestors, and these people will soon prostitute themselves to the foreign gods of the land they are entering. They will forsake me and break the covenant I made with them.'"

Parable as a Teaching Tool - Jotham's parable in Judges 9:7-15 uses a similar teaching method to Jesus' parables, such as:

Matthew 13:31-32 - "He told them another parable: 'The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches.'"

Judges 9:56-57 shows God's vengeance on Abimelech and the people of Shechem. This theme is reflected in:

Romans 12:19 - "Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: 'It is mine to avenge; I will repay,' says the Lord."

Proverbs 16:18 - "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall."

God's Use of the Unlikely - God's use of Gideon, despite his initial reluctance (Judges 6-8), is similar to:

1 Corinthians 1:27 - "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong."These scriptures demonstrate that the themes and events in Judges 8-9 are consistent with broader biblical teachings and narratives

2 Kings 11:1 - "When Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she proceeded to destroy the whole royal family."

Proverbs 29:2 - "When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan."

---

---

SESSION 7 - The Cycles of Leadership and Justice in Israel Lesson Overview - Judges 10-12

Printable Download

---

TEXT

Chapter 10 - Tola

1 After the time of Abimelek, a man of Issachar named Tola son of Puah, the son of Dodo, rose to save Israel. He lived in Shamir, in the hill country of Ephraim. 2 He led Israel twenty-three years; then he died, and was buried in Shamir.

Jair

3 He was followed by Jair of Gilead, who led Israel twenty-two years. 4 He had thirty sons, who rode thirty donkeys. They controlled thirty towns in Gilead, which to this day are called Havvoth Jair. 5 When Jair died, he was buried in Kamon.

Jephthah

6 Again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord. They served the Baals and the Ashtoreths, and the gods of Aram, the gods of Sidon, the gods of Moab, the gods of the Ammonites and the gods of the Philistines. And because the Israelites forsook the Lord and no longer served him, 7 he became angry with them. He sold them into the hands of the Philistines and the Ammonites, 8 who that year shattered and crushed them. For eighteen years they oppressed all the Israelites on the east side of the Jordan in Gilead, the land of the Amorites. 9 The Ammonites also crossed the Jordan to fight against Judah, Benjamin and Ephraim; Israel was in great distress. 10 Then the Israelites cried out to the Lord, “We have sinned against you, forsaking our God and serving the Baals.”

11 The Lord replied, “When the Egyptians, the Amorites, the Ammonites, the Philistines, 12 the Sidonians, the Amalekites and the Maonites oppressed you and you cried to me for help, did I not save you from their hands? 13 But you have forsaken me and served other gods, so I will no longer save you. 14 Go and cry out to the gods you have chosen. Let them save you when you are in trouble!”

15 But the Israelites said to the Lord, “We have sinned. Do with us whatever you think best, but please rescue us now.” 16 Then they got rid of the foreign gods among them and served the Lord. And he could bear Israel’s misery no longer.

17 When the Ammonites were called to arms and camped in Gilead, the Israelites assembled and camped at Mizpah. 18 The leaders of the people of Gilead said to each other, “Whoever will take the lead in attacking the Ammonites will be head over all who live in Gilead.”

Chapter 11

1 Jephthah the Gileadite was a mighty warrior. His father was Gilead; his mother was a prostitute. 2 Gilead’s wife also bore him sons, and when they were grown up, they drove Jephthah away. “You are not going to get any inheritance in our family,” they said, “because you are the son of another woman.” 3 So Jephthah fled from his brothers and settled in the land of Tob, where a gang of scoundrels gathered around him and followed him.

4 Some time later, when the Ammonites were fighting against Israel, 5 the elders of Gilead went to get Jephthah from the land of Tob. 6 “Come,” they said, “be our commander, so we can fight the Ammonites.”

7 Jephthah said to them, “Didn’t you hate me and drive me from my father’s house? Why do you come to me now, when you’re in trouble?”

8 The elders of Gilead said to him, “Nevertheless, we are turning to you now; come with us to fight the Ammonites, and you will be head over all of us who live in Gilead.”

9 Jephthah answered, “Suppose you take me back to fight the Ammonites and the Lord gives them to me—will I really be your head?”

10 The elders of Gilead replied, “The Lord is our witness; we will certainly do as you say.” 11 So Jephthah went with the elders of Gilead, and the people made him head and commander over them. And he repeated all his words before the Lord in Mizpah.

12 Then Jephthah sent messengers to the Ammonite king with the question: “What do you have against me that you have attacked my country?”

13 The king of the Ammonites answered Jephthah’s messengers, “When Israel came up out of Egypt, they took away my land from the Arnon to the Jabbok, all the way to the Jordan. Now give it back peaceably.”

14 Jephthah sent back messengers to the Ammonite king, 15 saying:

“This is what Jephthah says: Israel did not take the land of Moab or the land of the Ammonites. 16 But when they came up out of Egypt, Israel went through the wilderness to the Red Sea and on to Kadesh. 17 Then Israel sent messengers to the king of Edom, saying, ‘Give us permission to go through your country,’ but the king of Edom would not listen. They sent also to the king of Moab, and he refused. So Israel stayed at Kadesh.

18 “Next they traveled through the wilderness, skirted the lands of Edom and Moab, passed along the eastern side of the country of Moab, and camped on the other side of the Arnon. They did not enter the territory of Moab, for the Arnon was its border.

19 “Then Israel sent messengers to Sihon king of the Amorites, who ruled in Heshbon, and said to him, ‘Let us pass through your country to our own place.’ 20 Sihon, however, did not trust Israel to pass through his territory. He mustered all his troops and encamped at Jahaz and fought with Israel.

21 “Then the Lord, the God of Israel, gave Sihon and his whole army into Israel’s hands, and they defeated them. Israel took over all the land of the Amorites who lived in that country, 22 capturing all of it from the Arnon to the Jabbok and from the desert to the Jordan.

23 “Now since the Lord, the God of Israel, has driven the Amorites out before his people Israel, what right have you to take it over? 24 Will you not take what your god Chemosh gives you? Likewise, whatever the Lord our God has given us, we will possess. 25 Are you any better than Balak son of Zippor, king of Moab? Did he ever quarrel with Israel or fight with them? 26 For three hundred years Israel occupied Heshbon, Aroer, the surrounding settlements and all the towns along the Arnon. Why didn’t you retake them during that time? 27 I have not wronged you, but you are doing me wrong by waging war against me. Let the Lord, the Judge, decide the dispute this day between the Israelites and the Ammonites.”

28 The king of Ammon, however, paid no attention to the message Jephthah sent him.

29 Then the Spirit of the Lord came on Jephthah. He crossed Gilead and Manasseh, passed through Mizpah of Gilead, and from there he advanced against the Ammonites. 30 And Jephthah made a vow to the Lord: “If you give the Ammonites into my hands, 31 whatever comes out of the door of my house to meet me when I return in triumph from the Ammonites will be the Lord’s, and I will sacrifice it as a burnt offering.”

32 Then Jephthah went over to fight the Ammonites, and the Lord gave them into his hands. 33 He devastated twenty towns from Aroer to the vicinity of Minnith, as far as Abel Keramim. Thus Israel subdued Ammon.

34 When Jephthah returned to his home in Mizpah, who should come out to meet him but his daughter, dancing to the sound of timbrels! She was an only child. Except for her he had neither son nor daughter. 35 When he saw her, he tore his clothes and cried, “Oh no, my daughter! You have brought me down and I am devastated. I have made a vow to the Lord that I cannot break.”

36 “My father,” she replied, “you have given your word to the Lord. Do to me just as you promised, now that the Lord has avenged you of your enemies, the Ammonites. 37 But grant me this one request,” she said. “Give me two months to roam the hills and weep with my friends, because I will never marry.”

38 “You may go,” he said. And he let her go for two months. She and her friends went into the hills and wept because she would never marry. 39 After the two months, she returned to her father, and he did to her as he had vowed. And she was a virgin.

From this comes the Israelite tradition 40 that each year the young women of Israel go out for four days to commemorate the daughter of Jephthah the Gileadite.

Chapter 12 - Jephthah and Ephraim

1 The Ephraimite forces were called out, and they crossed over to Zaphon. They said to Jephthah, “Why did you go to fight the Ammonites without calling us to go with you? We’re going to burn down your house over your head.”

2 Jephthah answered, “I and my people were engaged in a great struggle with the Ammonites, and although I called, you didn’t save me out of their hands. 3 When I saw that you wouldn’t help, I took my life in my hands and crossed over to fight the Ammonites, and the Lord gave me the victory over them. Now why have you come up today to fight me?”

4 Jephthah then called together the men of Gilead and fought against Ephraim. The Gileadites struck them down because the Ephraimites had said, “You Gileadites are renegades from Ephraim and Manasseh.” 5 The Gileadites captured the fords of the Jordan leading to Ephraim, and whenever a survivor of Ephraim said, “Let me cross over,” the men of Gilead asked him, “Are you an Ephraimite?” If he replied, “No,” 6 they said, “All right, say ‘Shibboleth.’” If he said, “Sibboleth,” because he could not pronounce the word correctly, they seized him and killed him at the fords of the Jordan. Forty-two thousand Ephraimites were killed at that time.

7 Jephthah led Israel six years. Then Jephthah the Gileadite died and was buried in a town in Gilead.

Ibzan, Elon and Abdon

8 After him, Ibzan of Bethlehem led Israel. 9 He had thirty sons and thirty daughters. He gave his daughters away in marriage to those outside his clan, and for his sons he brought in thirty young women as wives from outside his clan. Ibzan led Israel seven years. 10 Then Ibzan died and was buried in Bethlehem.

11 After him, Elon the Zebulunite led Israel ten years. 12 Then Elon died and was buried in Aijalon in the land of Zebulun.

13 After him, Abdon son of Hillel, from Pirathon, led Israel. 14 He had forty sons and thirty grandsons, who rode on seventy donkeys. He led Israel eight years. 15 Then Abdon son of Hillel died and was buried at Pirathon in Ephraim, in the hill country of the Amalekites.

---

OVERVIEW

The chapters of Judges 10-12 tell a complex narrative about leadership, power, and the consequences of turning away from God's guidance. This section primarily covers the stories of Abimelech and Jephthah, presenting stark contrasts in leadership styles and motivations.

Main Points:

Judges 10 shows Israel falling back into idolatry after Abimelech's death. When oppression comes, God initially refuses to help them, challenging their superficial repentance. This chapter particularly emphasizes the cycle of sin, suffering, supplication, and salvation that characterizes the entire book.

Judges 11-12 introduces Jephthah, a rejected son who becomes Israel's deliverer. His story includes both triumph and tragedy, highlighted by his rash vow that leads to personal devastation. Despite his military success, his leadership ends in civil war with the Ephraimites, resulting in the death of 42,000 Israelites.

---

DISCUSSION POINTS

Think About This: What happens when we make promises to God without understanding His will?

Key Themes:

1. The corrupting nature of power when divorced from divine guidance

2. The consequences of rash vows and hasty decisions

3. The cycle of Israel's faithfulness and unfaithfulness

4. The importance of righteous leadership

This section provides ideas for discussions about leadership, the consequences of our choices, and the importance of seeking God's wisdom rather than personal gain.

• Jephthah’s vow (Judges 11) reminds us of the importance of aligning our promises with God’s Word. His tragic mistake serves as a cautionary tale.

• "Let your 'yes' be 'yes' and your 'no,' 'no.'" - Matthew 5:37

• God’s mercy remains, even in our mistakes. Jephthah’s leadership still leads to Israel’s deliverance, demonstrating God’s sovereignty.

The disputes between Jephthah and the Ephraimites (Judges 12) show the dangers of pride and internal division among God’s people.

Judges 10–12 emphasizes God’s justice and mercy, the importance of obedience, and the consequences of human choices, reminding readers of the need for faithfulness and wisdom in serving Him.

---

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT

Jephthah’s family and community had rejected him because his mother was a prostitute. So he had fled to another land, where he made a name for himself and outlaws followed him.

Though Jephthah had been exiled, the elders of Gilead begged him to return and help them fight the Ammonites, whom God had set against Israel because they had worshiped other gods. The elders even said that Jephthah could be the leader over all of them. That sounded good to Jephthah, and he made them commit to their promise.

The elders and Jephthah are like mirror images—corrupted opportunists serving themselves. They did what seemed right in their own eyes.

But what do we do? In our communities and our families, do we simply do as we like? Or do we try to seek out God’s will, reflecting on the teachings of his Word to us, asking the Lord for guidance, and searching out the wisdom of others who believe and trust in God? If we only do what seems right in our own eyes, we won’t be much different from Jephthah and the Gileadites, acting in line with our sinful nature.

But through another child who had a scandalous birth and was often an outcast, God has provided another way. He sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to live a perfect life and to give up his own life for our sake. He defeated our worst enemies—sin and death—so that we can live at peace with God. Praise be to God!

---

TAKE HOME

God desires our obedience, not rash promises. How can you better discern His will in your life? Take time to seek His guidance before making commitments.

---

SCRIPTURE RESEARCH

Judges 10–12 covers the leadership of Tola and Jair, Israel’s return to idolatry, their oppression by the Ammonites, and the rise of Jephthah as a judge. The narrative focuses on God’s justice and mercy, the consequences of human vows, and His deliverance through unlikely individuals. Below are supporting NIV scriptures that parallel or reinforce the themes and events in Judges 10–12:

1. Israel’s Repeated Sin and God’s Anger - In Judges 10:6-7, Israel once again turns to idolatry, worshiping foreign gods, which leads to God’s anger and their oppression.

Exodus 20:3-5 – "You shall have no other gods before me... for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God."

2 Kings 17:7-8, 12 – Israel’s exile is attributed to their persistent idolatry and forsaking God.

Nehemiah 9:28 – "As soon as they were at rest, they again did what was evil in your sight."

2. Crying Out for Deliverance - In Judges 10:10-16, the Israelites confess their sin and cry out to God for deliverance. Initially, God rebukes them, reminding them of their history of rebellion, but He is ultimately moved by their repentance.

Psalm 51:17 – "My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise."

Hosea 14:1-2 – "Return, Israel, to the Lord your God. Your sins have been your downfall!"

Isaiah 55:7 – "Let the wicked forsake their ways... and let them turn to the Lord, and he will have mercy on them."

3. God’s Compassion Despite Israel’s Rebellion - Judges 10:16 highlights God’s compassion as He becomes “impatient over the misery of Israel.”

Psalm 86:15 – "But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness."

Lamentations 3:22-23 – "Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail."

Joel 2:13 – "Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love."

4. Jephthah’s Background and Call - In Judges 11:1-11, Jephthah, the son of a prostitute, is initially rejected by his family but later called upon to deliver Israel when the Ammonites attack.

1 Samuel 16:11-13 – David, the youngest and least likely among his brothers, is chosen by God to be king.

Genesis 50:20 – Joseph’s rejection by his brothers ultimately leads to his rise as a deliverer in Egypt.

1 Corinthians 1:27-28 – "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong."

5. Negotiation and Knowledge of Israel’s History - In Judges 11:12-28, Jephthah engages in diplomacy with the Ammonite king, recounting Israel’s history to justify their claim to the land.

Deuteronomy 2:9, 19 – God’s instructions to Israel about respecting the land of Moab and Ammon during their journey to Canaan.

Psalm 77:11-12 – "I will remember the deeds of the Lord... I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds."

Acts 7:2-50 – Stephen recounts Israel’s history to explain God’s plan and actions.

6. Jephthah’s Vow - Judges 11:30-40 tells the tragic story of Jephthah’s vow, where he promises to sacrifice whatever comes out of his house if God grants him victory. His daughter is the first to greet him, and he fulfills the vow.

Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 – "When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow."

Leviticus 27:2-8 – Regulations for making and redeeming vows to the Lord.

Matthew 5:33-37 – Jesus warns against making careless oaths: "All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No.’"

7. Tribal Conflict and Civil War - In Judges 12:1-6, a conflict arises between Jephthah and the Ephraimites, leading to a civil war where many Ephraimites are killed.

Judges 8:1-3 – A previous conflict with the Ephraimites during Gideon’s time, resolved diplomatically.

Proverbs 15:1 – "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."

James 4:1-2 – "What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you?"

---

---

SESSION 8 – Eyes on Revenge - Judges 13-16

Printable Download

---

TEXT

Chapter 13 - The Birth of Samson

1 Again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord, so the Lord delivered them into the hands of the Philistines for forty years.

2 A certain man of Zorah, named Manoah, from the clan of the Danites, had a wife who was childless, unable to give birth. 3 The angel of the Lord appeared to her and said, “You are barren and childless, but you are going to become pregnant and give birth to a son. 4 Now see to it that you drink no wine or other fermented drink and that you do not eat anything unclean. 5 You will become pregnant and have a son whose head is never to be touched by a razor because the boy is to be a Nazirite, dedicated to God from the womb. He will take the lead in delivering Israel from the hands of the Philistines.”

6 Then the woman went to her husband and told him, “A man of God came to me. He looked like an angel of God, very awesome. I didn’t ask him where he came from, and he didn’t tell me his name. 7 But he said to me, ‘You will become pregnant and have a son. Now then, drink no wine or other fermented drink and do not eat anything unclean, because the boy will be a Nazirite of God from the womb until the day of his death.’”

8 Then Manoah prayed to the Lord: “Pardon your servant, Lord. I beg you to let the man of God you sent to us come again to teach us how to bring up the boy who is to be born.”

9 God heard Manoah, and the angel of God came again to the woman while she was out in the field; but her husband Manoah was not with her. 10 The woman hurried to tell her husband, “He’s here! The man who appeared to me the other day!”

11 Manoah got up and followed his wife. When he came to the man, he said, “Are you the man who talked to my wife?”

“I am,” he said.

12 So Manoah asked him, “When your words are fulfilled, what is to be the rule that governs the boy’s life and work?”

13 The angel of the Lord answered, “Your wife must do all that I have told her. 14 She must not eat anything that comes from the grapevine, nor drink any wine or other fermented drink nor eat anything unclean. She must do everything I have commanded her.”

15 Manoah said to the angel of the Lord, “We would like you to stay until we prepare a young goat for you.”

16 The angel of the Lord replied, “Even though you detain me, I will not eat any of your food. But if you prepare a burnt offering, offer it to the Lord.” (Manoah did not realize that it was the angel of the Lord.)

17 Then Manoah inquired of the angel of the Lord, “What is your name, so that we may honor you when your word comes true?”

18 He replied, “Why do you ask my name? It is beyond understanding.” 19 Then Manoah took a young goat, together with the grain offering, and sacrificed it on a rock to the Lord. And the Lord did an amazing thing while Manoah and his wife watched: 20 As the flame blazed up from the altar toward heaven, the angel of the Lord ascended in the flame. Seeing this, Manoah and his wife fell with their faces to the ground. 21 When the angel of the Lord did not show himself again to Manoah and his wife, Manoah realized that it was the angel of the Lord.

22 “We are doomed to die!” he said to his wife. “We have seen God!”

23 But his wife answered, “If the Lord had meant to kill us, he would not have accepted a burnt offering and grain offering from our hands, nor shown us all these things or now told us this.”

24 The woman gave birth to a boy and named him Samson. He grew and the Lord blessed him, 25 and the Spirit of the Lord began to stir him while he was in Mahaneh Dan, between Zorah and Eshtaol.

Chapter 14 - Samson’s Marriage

1 Samson went down to Timnah and saw there a young Philistine woman. 2 When he returned, he said to his father and mother, “I have seen a Philistine woman in Timnah; now get her for me as my wife.”

3 His father and mother replied, “Isn’t there an acceptable woman among your relatives or among all our people? Must you go to the uncircumcised Philistines to get a wife?”

But Samson said to his father, “Get her for me. She’s the right one for me.” 4 (His parents did not know that this was from the Lord, who was seeking an occasion to confront the Philistines; for at that time they were ruling over Israel.)

5 Samson went down to Timnah together with his father and mother. As they approached the vineyards of Timnah, suddenly a young lion came roaring toward him. 6 The Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon him so that he tore the lion apart with his bare hands as he might have torn a young goat. But he told neither his father nor his mother what he had done. 7 Then he went down and talked with the woman, and he liked her.

8 Some time later, when he went back to marry her, he turned aside to look at the lion’s carcass, and in it he saw a swarm of bees and some honey. 9 He scooped out the honey with his hands and ate as he went along. When he rejoined his parents, he gave them some, and they too ate it. But he did not tell them that he had taken the honey from the lion’s carcass.

10 Now his father went down to see the woman. And there Samson held a feast, as was customary for young men. 11 When the people saw him, they chose thirty men to be his companions.

12 “Let me tell you a riddle,” Samson said to them. “If you can give me the answer within the seven days of the feast, I will give you thirty linen garments and thirty sets of clothes. 13 If you can’t tell me the answer, you must give me thirty linen garments and thirty sets of clothes.”

“Tell us your riddle,” they said. “Let’s hear it.”

14 He replied,

“Out of the eater, something to eat;
    out of the strong, something sweet.”

For three days they could not give the answer.

15 On the fourth day, they said to Samson’s wife, “Coax your husband into explaining the riddle for us, or we will burn you and your father’s household to death. Did you invite us here to steal our property?”

16 Then Samson’s wife threw herself on him, sobbing, “You hate me! You don’t really love me. You’ve given my people a riddle, but you haven’t told me the answer.”

“I haven’t even explained it to my father or mother,” he replied, “so why should I explain it to you?” 17 She cried the whole seven days of the feast. So on the seventh day he finally told her, because she continued to press him. She in turn explained the riddle to her people.

18 Before sunset on the seventh day the men of the town said to him,

“What is sweeter than honey?
    What is stronger than a lion?”

Samson said to them,

“If you had not plowed with my heifer,
    you would not have solved my riddle.”

19 Then the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon him. He went down to Ashkelon, struck down thirty of their men, stripped them of everything and gave their clothes to those who had explained the riddle. Burning with anger, he returned to his father’s home. 20 And Samson’s wife was given to one of his companions who had attended him at the feast.

Chapter 15 - Samson’s Vengeance on the Philistines

1 Later on, at the time of wheat harvest, Samson took a young goat and went to visit his wife. He said, “I’m going to my wife’s room.” But her father would not let him go in.

2 “I was so sure you hated her,” he said, “that I gave her to your companion. Isn’t her younger sister more attractive? Take her instead.”

3 Samson said to them, “This time I have a right to get even with the Philistines; I will really harm them.” 4 So he went out and caught three hundred foxes and tied them tail to tail in pairs. He then fastened a torch to every pair of tails, 5 lit the torches and let the foxes loose in the standing grain of the Philistines. He burned up the shocks and standing grain, together with the vineyards and olive groves.

6 When the Philistines asked, “Who did this?” they were told, “Samson, the Timnite’s son-in-law, because his wife was given to his companion.”

So the Philistines went up and burned her and her father to death. 7 Samson said to them, “Since you’ve acted like this, I swear that I won’t stop until I get my revenge on you.” 8 He attacked them viciously and slaughtered many of them. Then he went down and stayed in a cave in the rock of Etam.

9 The Philistines went up and camped in Judah, spreading out near Lehi. 10 The people of Judah asked, “Why have you come to fight us?”

“We have come to take Samson prisoner,” they answered, “to do to him as he did to us.”

11 Then three thousand men from Judah went down to the cave in the rock of Etam and said to Samson, “Don’t you realize that the Philistines are rulers over us? What have you done to us?”

He answered, “I merely did to them what they did to me.”

12 They said to him, “We’ve come to tie you up and hand you over to the Philistines.”

Samson said, “Swear to me that you won’t kill me yourselves.”

13 “Agreed,” they answered. “We will only tie you up and hand you over to them. We will not kill you.” So they bound him with two new ropes and led him up from the rock. 14 As he approached Lehi, the Philistines came toward him shouting. The Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon him. The ropes on his arms became like charred flax, and the bindings dropped from his hands. 15 Finding a fresh jawbone of a donkey, he grabbed it and struck down a thousand men.

16 Then Samson said,

“With a donkey’s jawbone
    I have made donkeys of them.
With a donkey’s jawbone
    I have killed a thousand men.”

17 When he finished speaking, he threw away the jawbone; and the place was called Ramath Lehi.

18 Because he was very thirsty, he cried out to the Lord, “You have given your servant this great victory. Must I now die of thirst and fall into the hands of the uncircumcised?” 19 Then God opened up the hollow place in Lehi, and water came out of it. When Samson drank, his strength returned and he revived. So the spring was called En Hakkore, and it is still there in Lehi.

20 Samson led Israel for twenty years in the days of the Philistines.

Chapter 16 - Samson and Delilah

1 One day Samson went to Gaza, where he saw a prostitute. He went in to spend the night with her. 2 The people of Gaza were told, “Samson is here!” So they surrounded the place and lay in wait for him all night at the city gate. They made no move during the night, saying, “At dawn we’ll kill him.”

3 But Samson lay there only until the middle of the night. Then he got up and took hold of the doors of the city gate, together with the two posts, and tore them loose, bar and all. He lifted them to his shoulders and carried them to the top of the hill that faces Hebron.

4 Some time later, he fell in love with a woman in the Valley of Sorek whose name was Delilah. 5 The rulers of the Philistines went to her and said, “See if you can lure him into showing you the secret of his great strength and how we can overpower him so we may tie him up and subdue him. Each one of us will give you eleven hundred shekels of silver.”

6 So Delilah said to Samson, “Tell me the secret of your great strength and how you can be tied up and subdued.”

7 Samson answered her, “If anyone ties me with seven fresh bowstrings that have not been dried, I’ll become as weak as any other man.”

8 Then the rulers of the Philistines brought her seven fresh bowstrings that had not been dried, and she tied him with them. 9 With men hidden in the room, she called to him, “Samson, the Philistines are upon you!” But he snapped the bowstrings as easily as a piece of string snaps when it comes close to a flame. So the secret of his strength was not discovered.

10 Then Delilah said to Samson, “You have made a fool of me; you lied to me. Come now, tell me how you can be tied.”

11 He said, “If anyone ties me securely with new ropes that have never been used, I’ll become as weak as any other man.”

12 So Delilah took new ropes and tied him with them. Then, with men hidden in the room, she called to him, “Samson, the Philistines are upon you!” But he snapped the ropes off his arms as if they were threads.

13 Delilah then said to Samson, “All this time you have been making a fool of me and lying to me. Tell me how you can be tied.”

He replied, “If you weave the seven braids of my head into the fabric on the loom and tighten it with the pin, I’ll become as weak as any other man.” So while he was sleeping, Delilah took the seven braids of his head, wove them into the fabric 14 and tightened it with the pin.

Again she called to him, “Samson, the Philistines are upon you!” He awoke from his sleep and pulled up the pin and the loom, with the fabric.

15 Then she said to him, “How can you say, ‘I love you,’ when you won’t confide in me? This is the third time you have made a fool of me and haven’t told me the secret of your great strength.” 16 With such nagging she prodded him day after day until he was sick to death of it.

17 So he told her everything. “No razor has ever been used on my head,” he said, “because I have been a Nazirite dedicated to God from my mother’s womb. If my head were shaved, my strength would leave me, and I would become as weak as any other man.”

18 When Delilah saw that he had told her everything, she sent word to the rulers of the Philistines, “Come back once more; he has told me everything.” So the rulers of the Philistines returned with the silver in their hands. 19 After putting him to sleep on her lap, she called for someone to shave off the seven braids of his hair, and so began to subdue him. And his strength left him.

20 Then she called, “Samson, the Philistines are upon you!”

He awoke from his sleep and thought, “I’ll go out as before and shake myself free.” But he did not know that the Lord had left him.

21 Then the Philistines seized him, gouged out his eyes and took him down to Gaza. Binding him with bronze shackles, they set him to grinding grain in the prison. 22 But the hair on his head began to grow again after it had been shaved.

The Death of Samson

23 Now the rulers of the Philistines assembled to offer a great sacrifice to Dagon their god and to celebrate, saying, “Our god has delivered Samson, our enemy, into our hands.”

24 When the people saw him, they praised their god, saying,

“Our god has delivered our enemy
    into our hands,
the one who laid waste our land
    and multiplied our slain.”

25 While they were in high spirits, they shouted, “Bring out Samson to entertain us.” So they called Samson out of the prison, and he performed for them.

When they stood him among the pillars, 26 Samson said to the servant who held his hand, “Put me where I can feel the pillars that support the temple, so that I may lean against them.” 27 Now the temple was crowded with men and women; all the rulers of the Philistines were there, and on the roof were about three thousand men and women watching Samson perform. 28 Then Samson prayed to the Lord, “Sovereign Lord, remember me. Please, God, strengthen me just once more, and let me with one blow get revenge on the Philistines for my two eyes.” 29 Then Samson reached toward the two central pillars on which the temple stood. Bracing himself against them, his right hand on the one and his left hand on the other, 30 Samson said, “Let me die with the Philistines!” Then he pushed with all his might, and down came the temple on the rulers and all the people in it. Thus he killed many more when he died than while he lived.

31 Then his brothers and his father’s whole family went down to get him. They brought him back and buried him between Zorah and Eshtaol in the tomb of Manoah his father. He had led Israel twenty years.

---

OVERVIEW

Judges 13-16 tells the story of Samson, one of Israel's most famous judges. Born miraculously to barren parents after an angelic visitation, Samson was set apart as a Nazirite from birth, dedicated to God with supernatural strength.

Despite his divine calling, Samson's life was marked by a series of poor decisions, particularly in his relationships with women. Samson's story is one of great potential and tragic failure. As Don Fortner notes, "Samson was a man of remarkable faith, remarkable strength, and remarkable weakness". 

His strength allowed him to perform incredible feats against the Philistines, yet his weakness for women ultimately led to his downfall.

Charles Spurgeon offered this insight about Samson: "Samson was a champion of strength, and yet a mere baby in grace. His whole life illustrates the fact that physical force is not spiritual power, and that moral weakness may sadly coexist with corporeal might."

John Piper reflects on Samson's final moments: "In the end, Samson's life is a picture of both the destructive power of sin and the restoring power of grace. His final prayer shows us that God's purpose is not finally dependent on our perfection but on His grace."

Matthew Henry observed: "God left him to himself in this matter, as He did, to punish him for his former sins, but designed it to be an occasion against the Philistines. God sometimes brings about His holy ends by permitting the sins of men."

This pattern of disobedience and compromise culminated in Samson revealing the secret of his strength to Delilah, leading to his capture and humiliation.

Despite his failures, Samson's story ends with a final act of faith. In his death, he accomplished more for God's purposes than he had in life, destroying many Philistines and beginning Israel's deliverance from their oppression.

As the Life Application Bible Notes remind us, "Samson's story teaches us that it is never too late to start over. However badly we may have failed in the past, today is not too late for us to put our complete trust in God"

---

DISCUSSION POINTS

Think About This: How can we avoid wasting the gifts God gives us

Born miraculously to barren parents, Samson was set apart as a Nazirite from birth, dedicated to God with supernatural strength. However, his life was marked by a series of poor decisions, particularly in his relationships with women. Charlie Boyd observes, "Samson has every advantage to succeed, but no sooner do we read that the Spirit of YHWH is stirring him to action, do we also read that he wants to take a pagan Philistine woman to be his wife?! And it's all downhill from there".

This pattern of disobedience and compromise culminated in Samson revealing the secret of his strength to Delilah, leading to his capture and humiliation.Despite his failures, Samson's story ends with a final act of faith. In his death, he accomplished more for God's purposes than he had in life, destroying many Philistines and beginning Israel's deliverance from their oppression. As Don Fortner notes, "Samson was a man of remarkable faith, remarkable strength, and remarkable weakness"

Points and Questions:

1. God's Sovereignty: How does Samson's story demonstrate God's ability to work through flawed individuals to accomplish His purposes?

2. The Danger of Compromise: What can we learn from Samson's repeated poor choices in relationships? How can we guard against compromising our faith?

3. Strength and Weakness: Samson's physical strength was extraordinary, but he was weak in character. How does this relate to Paul's words in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 about strength in weakness?

4. The Consequences of Sin: Discuss how Samson's actions led to his downfall. How does this illustrate the principle found in Galatians 6:7?

5. Redemption and Second Chances: Despite Samson's failures, God used him one last time. How does this encourage us in our own struggles with sin and failure?

6. The Importance of Dedication: Samson was set apart as a Nazirite. How can we apply the principle of dedication to God in our own lives today?

---

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT

Samson’s eyes got him into trouble, and without them Samson triumphed over the enemy. Forced to entertain his captors, blind Samson asked the Lord for strength one more time. His reason? To “get revenge on the Philistines for [his] two eyes.”

In his human weakness and pride, Samson could not forget his eyes. Even so, God used him as an instrument to rescue his people. Without the eyes that provoked passionate desire in his heart and led him away from God, Samson, now blind, “killed many more when he died than while he lived.” And Samson died with them.

Unlike the stories of other judges, the Samson story does not end by telling us that Israel had peace from their enemies. Rather, it shows us a Samson who saved Israel without his offending eyes. Would God’s people too have to endure a time of blindness before they could see what is right in God’s eyes? (See Matthew 13:13.)

Samson was blind not so much because the Philistines took his eyes but because his eyes caused him to sin. He didn’t need his eyes to save Israel. But he couldn’t let go of them without seeking revenge.

Unlike Samson, Jesus Christ died for our offending eyes, our wayward hands and feet, our deceitful hearts, and our loose tongues. And instead of seeking revenge, he died so that “whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” with God (John 3:16).

---

TAKE HOME

As we reflect on Samson's life, we're reminded that our true strength comes from God, not ourselves. The story of Samson teaches us that it's never too late to turn back to God, no matter how far we've strayed. As the Life Application Bible Notes remind us, "Samson's story teaches us that it is never too late to start over. However badly we may have failed in the past, today is not too late for us to put our complete trust in God"

---

SCRIPTURE RESEARCH

Divine calling and empowerment - Judges 13:5 states, "You will become pregnant and have a son whose head is never to be touched by a razor because the boy is to be a Nazirite, dedicated to God from the womb. He will take the lead in delivering Israel from the hands of the Philistines".

Jeremiah 1:5: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."

Galatians 1:15: "But when God, who set me apart from my mother's womb and called me by his grace, was pleased"

Strength from God - Judges 14:6 describes, "The Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon him so that he tore the lion apart with his bare hands as he might have torn a young goat".

Philippians 4:13: "I can do all this through him who gives me strength."

Isaiah 40:29: "He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak."

Consequences of sin - Judges 16:20-21 shows the consequences of Samson's actions: "Then she called, 'Samson, the Philistines are upon you!' He awoke from his sleep and thought, 'I'll go out as before and shake myself free.' But he did not know that the Lord had left him. Then the Philistines seized him, gouged out his eyes and took him down to Gaza".

Galatians 6:7: "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows."

Romans 6:23: "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Redemption and second chances - Despite his failures, Samson's final act in Judges 16:28-30 shows God's willingness to use him one last time.

2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"

1 John 1:9: "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."

---

---

SESSION 9 – Hope Beyond the Chaos - Judges 17-21

Printable Download

---

TEXT

Chapter 17 - Micah’s Idols

1 Now a man named Micah from the hill country of Ephraim 2 said to his mother, “The eleven hundred shekels of silver that were taken from you and about which I heard you utter a curse—I have that silver with me; I took it.”

Then his mother said, “The Lord bless you, my son!”

3 When he returned the eleven hundred shekels of silver to his mother, she said, “I solemnly consecrate my silver to the Lord for my son to make an image overlaid with silver. I will give it back to you.”

4 So after he returned the silver to his mother, she took two hundred shekels of silver and gave them to a silversmith, who used them to make the idol. And it was put in Micah’s house.

5 Now this man Micah had a shrine, and he made an ephod and some household gods and installed one of his sons as his priest. 6 In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit.

7 A young Levite from Bethlehem in Judah, who had been living within the clan of Judah, 8 left that town in search of some other place to stay. On his way he came to Micah’s house in the hill country of Ephraim.

9 Micah asked him, “Where are you from?”

“I’m a Levite from Bethlehem in Judah,” he said, “and I’m looking for a place to stay.”

10 Then Micah said to him, “Live with me and be my father and priest, and I’ll give you ten shekels of silver a year, your clothes and your food.” 11 So the Levite agreed to live with him, and the young man became like one of his sons to him. 12 Then Micah installed the Levite, and the young man became his priest and lived in his house. 13 And Micah said, “Now I know that the Lord will be good to me, since this Levite has become my priest.”

Chapter 18 - The Danites Settle in Laish

1 In those days Israel had no king.

And in those days the tribe of the Danites was seeking a place of their own where they might settle, because they had not yet come into an inheritance among the tribes of Israel. 2 So the Danites sent five of their leading men from Zorah and Eshtaol to spy out the land and explore it. These men represented all the Danites. They told them, “Go, explore the land.”

So they entered the hill country of Ephraim and came to the house of Micah, where they spent the night. 3 When they were near Micah’s house, they recognized the voice of the young Levite; so they turned in there and asked him, “Who brought you here? What are you doing in this place? Why are you here?”

4 He told them what Micah had done for him, and said, “He has hired me and I am his priest.”

5 Then they said to him, “Please inquire of God to learn whether our journey will be successful.”

6 The priest answered them, “Go in peace. Your journey has the Lord’s approval.”

7 So the five men left and came to Laish, where they saw that the people were living in safety, like the Sidonians, at peace and secure. And since their land lacked nothing, they were prosperous. Also, they lived a long way from the Sidonians and had no relationship with anyone else.

8 When they returned to Zorah and Eshtaol, their fellow Danites asked them, “How did you find things?”

9 They answered, “Come on, let’s attack them! We have seen the land, and it is very good. Aren’t you going to do something? Don’t hesitate to go there and take it over. 10 When you get there, you will find an unsuspecting people and a spacious land that God has put into your hands, a land that lacks nothing whatever.”

11 Then six hundred men of the Danites, armed for battle, set out from Zorah and Eshtaol. 12 On their way they set up camp near Kiriath Jearim in Judah. This is why the place west of Kiriath Jearim is called Mahaneh Dan to this day. 13 From there they went on to the hill country of Ephraim and came to Micah’s house.

14 Then the five men who had spied out the land of Laish said to their fellow Danites, “Do you know that one of these houses has an ephod, some household gods and an image overlaid with silver? Now you know what to do.” 15 So they turned in there and went to the house of the young Levite at Micah’s place and greeted him. 16 The six hundred Danites, armed for battle, stood at the entrance of the gate. 17 The five men who had spied out the land went inside and took the idol, the ephod and the household gods while the priest and the six hundred armed men stood at the entrance of the gate.

18 When the five men went into Micah’s house and took the idol, the ephod and the household gods, the priest said to them, “What are you doing?”

19 They answered him, “Be quiet! Don’t say a word. Come with us, and be our father and priest. Isn’t it better that you serve a tribe and clan in Israel as priest rather than just one man’s household?” 20 The priest was very pleased. He took the ephod, the household gods and the idol and went along with the people. 21 Putting their little children, their livestock and their possessions in front of them, they turned away and left.

22 When they had gone some distance from Micah’s house, the men who lived near Micah were called together and overtook the Danites. 23 As they shouted after them, the Danites turned and said to Micah, “What’s the matter with you that you called out your men to fight?”

24 He replied, “You took the gods I made, and my priest, and went away. What else do I have? How can you ask, ‘What’s the matter with you?’”

25 The Danites answered, “Don’t argue with us, or some of the men may get angry and attack you, and you and your family will lose your lives.” 26 So the Danites went their way, and Micah, seeing that they were too strong for him, turned around and went back home.

27 Then they took what Micah had made, and his priest, and went on to Laish, against a people at peace and secure. They attacked them with the sword and burned down their city. 28 There was no one to rescue them because they lived a long way from Sidon and had no relationship with anyone else. The city was in a valley near Beth Rehob.

The Danites rebuilt the city and settled there. 29 They named it Dan after their ancestor Dan, who was born to Israel—though the city used to be called Laish. 30 There the Danites set up for themselves the idol, and Jonathan son of Gershom, the son of Moses, and his sons were priests for the tribe of Dan until the time of the captivity of the land. 31 They continued to use the idol Micah had made, all the time the house of God was in Shiloh.

Chapter 19 - A Levite and His Concubine

1 In those days Israel had no king.

Now a Levite who lived in a remote area in the hill country of Ephraim took a concubine from Bethlehem in Judah. 2 But she was unfaithful to him. She left him and went back to her parents’ home in Bethlehem, Judah. After she had been there four months, 3 her husband went to her to persuade her to return. He had with him his servant and two donkeys. She took him into her parents’ home, and when her father saw him, he gladly welcomed him. 4 His father-in-law, the woman’s father, prevailed on him to stay; so he remained with him three days, eating and drinking, and sleeping there.

5 On the fourth day they got up early and he prepared to leave, but the woman’s father said to his son-in-law, “Refresh yourself with something to eat; then you can go.” 6 So the two of them sat down to eat and drink together. Afterward the woman’s father said, “Please stay tonight and enjoy yourself.” 7 And when the man got up to go, his father-in-law persuaded him, so he stayed there that night. 8 On the morning of the fifth day, when he rose to go, the woman’s father said, “Refresh yourself. Wait till afternoon!” So the two of them ate together.

9 Then when the man, with his concubine and his servant, got up to leave, his father-in-law, the woman’s father, said, “Now look, it’s almost evening. Spend the night here; the day is nearly over. Stay and enjoy yourself. Early tomorrow morning you can get up and be on your way home.” 10 But, unwilling to stay another night, the man left and went toward Jebus (that is, Jerusalem), with his two saddled donkeys and his concubine.

11 When they were near Jebus and the day was almost gone, the servant said to his master, “Come, let’s stop at this city of the Jebusites and spend the night.”

12 His master replied, “No. We won’t go into any city whose people are not Israelites. We will go on to Gibeah.” 13 He added, “Come, let’s try to reach Gibeah or Ramah and spend the night in one of those places.” 14 So they went on, and the sun set as they neared Gibeah in Benjamin. 15 There they stopped to spend the night. They went and sat in the city square, but no one took them in for the night.

16 That evening an old man from the hill country of Ephraim, who was living in Gibeah (the inhabitants of the place were Benjamites), came in from his work in the fields. 17 When he looked and saw the traveler in the city square, the old man asked, “Where are you going? Where did you come from?”

18 He answered, “We are on our way from Bethlehem in Judah to a remote area in the hill country of Ephraim where I live. I have been to Bethlehem in Judah and now I am going to the house of the Lord. No one has taken me in for the night. 19 We have both straw and fodder for our donkeys and bread and wine for ourselves your servants—me, the woman and the young man with us. We don’t need anything.”

20 “You are welcome at my house,” the old man said. “Let me supply whatever you need. Only don’t spend the night in the square.” 21 So he took him into his house and fed his donkeys. After they had washed their feet, they had something to eat and drink.

22 While they were enjoying themselves, some of the wicked men of the city surrounded the house. Pounding on the door, they shouted to the old man who owned the house, “Bring out the man who came to your house so we can have sex with him.”

23 The owner of the house went outside and said to them, “No, my friends, don’t be so vile. Since this man is my guest, don’t do this outrageous thing. 24 Look, here is my virgin daughter, and his concubine. I will bring them out to you now, and you can use them and do to them whatever you wish. But as for this man, don’t do such an outrageous thing.”

25 But the men would not listen to him. So the man took his concubine and sent her outside to them, and they raped her and abused her throughout the night, and at dawn they let her go. 26 At daybreak the woman went back to the house where her master was staying, fell down at the door and lay there until daylight.

27 When her master got up in the morning and opened the door of the house and stepped out to continue on his way, there lay his concubine, fallen in the doorway of the house, with her hands on the threshold. 28 He said to her, “Get up; let’s go.” But there was no answer. Then the man put her on his donkey and set out for home.

29 When he reached home, he took a knife and cut up his concubine, limb by limb, into twelve parts and sent them into all the areas of Israel. 30 Everyone who saw it was saying to one another, “Such a thing has never been seen or done, not since the day the Israelites came up out of Egypt. Just imagine! We must do something! So speak up!”

Chapter 20 - The Israelites Punish the Benjamites

1 Then all Israel from Dan to Beersheba and from the land of Gilead came together as one and assembled before the Lord in Mizpah. 2 The leaders of all the people of the tribes of Israel took their places in the assembly of God’s people, four hundred thousand men armed with swords. 3 (The Benjamites heard that the Israelites had gone up to Mizpah.) Then the Israelites said, “Tell us how this awful thing happened.”

4 So the Levite, the husband of the murdered woman, said, “I and my concubine came to Gibeah in Benjamin to spend the night. 5 During the night the men of Gibeah came after me and surrounded the house, intending to kill me. They raped my concubine, and she died. 6 I took my concubine, cut her into pieces and sent one piece to each region of Israel’s inheritance, because they committed this lewd and outrageous act in Israel. 7 Now, all you Israelites, speak up and tell me what you have decided to do.”

8 All the men rose up together as one, saying, “None of us will go home. No, not one of us will return to his house. 9 But now this is what we’ll do to Gibeah: We’ll go up against it in the order decided by casting lots. 10 We’ll take ten men out of every hundred from all the tribes of Israel, and a hundred from a thousand, and a thousand from ten thousand, to get provisions for the army. Then, when the army arrives at Gibeah in Benjamin, it can give them what they deserve for this outrageous act done in Israel.” 11 So all the Israelites got together and united as one against the city.

12 The tribes of Israel sent messengers throughout the tribe of Benjamin, saying, “What about this awful crime that was committed among you? 13 Now turn those wicked men of Gibeah over to us so that we may put them to death and purge the evil from Israel.”

But the Benjamites would not listen to their fellow Israelites. 14 From their towns they came together at Gibeah to fight against the Israelites. 15 At once the Benjamites mobilized twenty-six thousand swordsmen from their towns, in addition to seven hundred able young men from those living in Gibeah. 16 Among all these soldiers there were seven hundred select troops who were left-handed, each of whom could sling a stone at a hair and not miss.

17 Israel, apart from Benjamin, mustered four hundred thousand swordsmen, all of them fit for battle.

18 The Israelites went up to Bethel and inquired of God. They said, “Who of us is to go up first to fight against the Benjamites?”

The Lord replied, “Judah shall go first.”

19 The next morning the Israelites got up and pitched camp near Gibeah. 20 The Israelites went out to fight the Benjamites and took up battle positions against them at Gibeah. 21 The Benjamites came out of Gibeah and cut down twenty-two thousand Israelites on the battlefield that day. 22 But the Israelites encouraged one another and again took up their positions where they had stationed themselves the first day. 23 The Israelites went up and wept before the Lord until evening, and they inquired of the Lord. They said, “Shall we go up again to fight against the Benjamites, our fellow Israelites?”

The Lord answered, “Go up against them.”

24 Then the Israelites drew near to Benjamin the second day. 25 This time, when the Benjamites came out from Gibeah to oppose them, they cut down another eighteen thousand Israelites, all of them armed with swords.

26 Then all the Israelites, the whole army, went up to Bethel, and there they sat weeping before the Lord. They fasted that day until evening and presented burnt offerings and fellowship offerings to the Lord. 27 And the Israelites inquired of the Lord. (In those days the ark of the covenant of God was there, 28 with Phinehas son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron, ministering before it.) They asked, “Shall we go up again to fight against the Benjamites, our fellow Israelites, or not?”

The Lord responded, “Go, for tomorrow I will give them into your hands.”

29 Then Israel set an ambush around Gibeah. 30 They went up against the Benjamites on the third day and took up positions against Gibeah as they had done before. 31 The Benjamites came out to meet them and were drawn away from the city. They began to inflict casualties on the Israelites as before, so that about thirty men fell in the open field and on the roads—the one leading to Bethel and the other to Gibeah. 32 While the Benjamites were saying, “We are defeating them as before,” the Israelites were saying, “Let’s retreat and draw them away from the city to the roads.”

33 All the men of Israel moved from their places and took up positions at Baal Tamar, and the Israelite ambush charged out of its place on the west of Gibeah. 34 Then ten thousand of Israel’s able young men made a frontal attack on Gibeah. The fighting was so heavy that the Benjamites did not realize how near disaster was. 35 The Lord defeated Benjamin before Israel, and on that day the Israelites struck down 25,100 Benjamites, all armed with swords. 36 Then the Benjamites saw that they were beaten.

Now the men of Israel had given way before Benjamin, because they relied on the ambush they had set near Gibeah. 37 Those who had been in ambush made a sudden dash into Gibeah, spread out and put the whole city to the sword. 38 The Israelites had arranged with the ambush that they should send up a great cloud of smoke from the city, 39 and then the Israelites would counterattack.

The Benjamites had begun to inflict casualties on the Israelites (about thirty), and they said, “We are defeating them as in the first battle.” 40 But when the column of smoke began to rise from the city, the Benjamites turned and saw the whole city going up in smoke. 41 Then the Israelites counterattacked, and the Benjamites were terrified, because they realized that disaster had come on them. 42 So they fled before the Israelites in the direction of the wilderness, but they could not escape the battle. And the Israelites who came out of the towns cut them down there. 43 They surrounded the Benjamites, chased them and easily overran them in the vicinity of Gibeah on the east. 44 Eighteen thousand Benjamites fell, all of them valiant fighters. 45 As they turned and fled toward the wilderness to the rock of Rimmon, the Israelites cut down five thousand men along the roads. They kept pressing after the Benjamites as far as Gidom and struck down two thousand more.

46 On that day twenty-five thousand Benjamite swordsmen fell, all of them valiant fighters. 47 But six hundred of them turned and fled into the wilderness to the rock of Rimmon, where they stayed four months. 48 The men of Israel went back to Benjamin and put all the towns to the sword, including the animals and everything else they found. All the towns they came across they set on fire.

Chapter 21 - Wives for the Benjamites

1 The men of Israel had taken an oath at Mizpah: “Not one of us will give his daughter in marriage to a Benjamite.”

2 The people went to Bethel, where they sat before God until evening, raising their voices and weeping bitterly. 3 “Lord, God of Israel,” they cried, “why has this happened to Israel? Why should one tribe be missing from Israel today?”

4 Early the next day the people built an altar and presented burnt offerings and fellowship offerings.

5 Then the Israelites asked, “Who from all the tribes of Israel has failed to assemble before the Lord?” For they had taken a solemn oath that anyone who failed to assemble before the Lord at Mizpah was to be put to death.

6 Now the Israelites grieved for the tribe of Benjamin, their fellow Israelites. “Today one tribe is cut off from Israel,” they said. 7 “How can we provide wives for those who are left, since we have taken an oath by the Lord not to give them any of our daughters in marriage?” 8 Then they asked, “Which one of the tribes of Israel failed to assemble before the Lord at Mizpah?” They discovered that no one from Jabesh Gilead had come to the camp for the assembly. 9 For when they counted the people, they found that none of the people of Jabesh Gilead were there.

10 So the assembly sent twelve thousand fighting men with instructions to go to Jabesh Gilead and put to the sword those living there, including the women and children. 11 “This is what you are to do,” they said. “Kill every male and every woman who is not a virgin.” 12 They found among the people living in Jabesh Gilead four hundred young women who had never slept with a man, and they took them to the camp at Shiloh in Canaan.

13 Then the whole assembly sent an offer of peace to the Benjamites at the rock of Rimmon. 14 So the Benjamites returned at that time and were given the women of Jabesh Gilead who had been spared. But there were not enough for all of them.

15 The people grieved for Benjamin, because the Lord had made a gap in the tribes of Israel. 16 And the elders of the assembly said, “With the women of Benjamin destroyed, how shall we provide wives for the men who are left? 17 The Benjamite survivors must have heirs,” they said, “so that a tribe of Israel will not be wiped out. 18 We can’t give them our daughters as wives, since we Israelites have taken this oath: ‘Cursed be anyone who gives a wife to a Benjamite.’ 19 But look, there is the annual festival of the Lord in Shiloh, which lies north of Bethel, east of the road that goes from Bethel to Shechem, and south of Lebonah.”

20 So they instructed the Benjamites, saying, “Go and hide in the vineyards 21 and watch. When the young women of Shiloh come out to join in the dancing, rush from the vineyards and each of you seize one of them to be your wife. Then return to the land of Benjamin. 22 When their fathers or brothers complain to us, we will say to them, ‘Do us the favor of helping them, because we did not get wives for them during the war. You will not be guilty of breaking your oath because you did not give your daughters to them.’”

23 So that is what the Benjamites did. While the young women were dancing, each man caught one and carried her off to be his wife. Then they returned to their inheritance and rebuilt the towns and settled in them.

24 At that time the Israelites left that place and went home to their tribes and clans, each to his own inheritance.

25 In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit.

---

OVERVIEW

Judges 17-21 depicts a period of moral and spiritual decline in Israel, characterized by idolatry, lawlessness, and people doing what was right in their own eyes. These chapters serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of abandoning God's ways and the need for righteous leadership.

As Charles Cameron notes, "Things are not going well - 'every man did that which was right in his own eyes' (17:6). People were doing what suited themselves". This theme of moral relativism and its destructive consequences runs throughout these chapters, culminating in horrific acts of violence and civil war.The recurring phrase "In those days Israel had no king" (Judges 17:6, 18:1, 19:1, 21:25) underscores the lack of godly leadership and its impact on society. As one commentator observes, "It seems like the one thing the right and left have in common, they think this country is in trouble… Judges 17–21 is going to describe a time very similar".

Points and Questions:

1. The Danger of Moral Relativism: How does the phrase "everyone did what was right in his own eyes" relate to our current cultural climate? What are the consequences of abandoning absolute moral standards?

2. Idolatry and False Worship: Discuss Micah's actions in creating his own shrine and priest (Judges 17). How do people today create their own versions of God or religion?

3. The Importance of Godly Leadership: How does the lack of righteous leadership impact a society? What qualities should we look for in spiritual and civic leaders?

4. The Spiral of Sin: Trace the progression of sin and its consequences throughout these chapters. How does one sin often lead to another?

5. God's Mercy Amidst Human Failure: Despite the darkness of these chapters, how do we see God's mercy and faithfulness to His covenant?

6. The Need for Spiritual Renewal: How do these chapters highlight the need for revival and return to God? What parallels can we draw to our own time?

---

DISCUSSION POINTS

Think About This: What happens when everyone does what is right in their own eyes?

The final chapters of Judges reveal the depths of Israel's moral and spiritual deterioration. The recurring phrase "In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit" (Judges 17:6, 21:25) serves as a haunting reminder of the consequences of abandoning God's guidance. These chapters show two main narratives: Micah's idolatry and the Levite's hiring (17-18), and the horrific events involving the Levite's concubine and the civil war that follows (19-21).

Charles Spurgeon powerfully observed about this period: "When men forsake God's truth, they will believe anybody's lies. When they forsake the living God, they fall into all kinds of dead idolatries."

John MacArthur notes: "These final chapters of Judges serve as a mirror, showing us what happens when we reject God's authority and become a law unto ourselves. It's a sobering picture of spiritual and moral anarchy."

Discussion Questions:

1. Spiritual Leadership and Compromise (Chapters 17-18):

• How does Micah's attempt to create his own religion reflect modern attitudes toward spirituality?

• What does the Levite's willingness to serve as a private priest tell us about the corruption of spiritual leadership?

• In what ways do we sometimes try to "customize" our faith to suit our preferences?

2. Moral Decline and Social Chaos (Chapters 19-21):

• How does the treatment of the Levite's concubine reflect the complete breakdown of society?

• What parallels can we draw between the tribal warfare that follows and modern conflicts within the church?

• How does this dark period point to humanity's need for righteous leadership and ultimately, Christ?

3. Application for Today:

• What safeguards can we put in place to prevent spiritual drift in our own lives?

• How can the church maintain biblical standards while showing Christ's love in a culture that "does what is right in its own eyes"?

• What role does proper spiritual authority play in maintaining faithfulness to God?

Martin Lloyd-Jones offers this relevant insight: "The book of Judges shows us that when we abandon God's authority, we don't become free – we become enslaved to our own desires and ultimately to destruction."

Points

1. The danger of individualistic religion and "designer faith"

2. The importance of maintaining biblical authority and leadership

3. How moral compromise in one area leads to wider social breakdown

4. The need for godly leadership and accountability

5. God's mercy even in times of great darkness – He doesn't abandon His people despite their failures

These chapters serve as a powerful warning about the consequences of moral relativism and spiritual compromise, while also pointing to humanity's desperate need for the perfect King who would come in Jesus Christ.

---

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT

The closing chapters of Judges (chap. 17-21) show how things go from bad to worse as God’s people keep doing what is right in their own eyes—and what is evil in God’s eyes. The people fall headlong into a downward spiral leading to religious chaos.

God had set up the leadership of his people, appointing priests to serve in worship (Exodus 40:12-15). In those days the priests were to serve only at the tabernacle, the house of God in Shiloh (Judges 18:31)— and then later at the temple in Jerusalem (1 Kings 5-6).

We read today, however, that Micah made a shrine for his own gods and installed one of his own sons as his priest. Then, even worse, a traveling Levite, who was ordained to serve at the tabernacle (Numbers 3), agreed to be Micah’s priest.

In all of this, the people and their religious leaders corrupted the system of leadership in Israel, doing what seemed right in their own eyes. Or, as we read in 2 Timothy, people set up teachers around them to say only what they wanted to hear.

Corruption like this stains biblical religion to this very day. Today we have preachers of self-esteem and prosperity—and many others who make political statements that defy the teachings of God in Christ. For Jesus’ sake, there’s no better time than now to evaluate what our eyes are eager to see and what our ears are itching to hear.

---

TAKE HOME

Without God’s guidance, our lives descend into chaos. How can you make Him the center of your daily decisions? Reflect on areas where you need to align your actions with His will.

As we reflect on these sobering chapters, we're reminded of the words from 2 Chronicles 7:14, "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land". This passage offers hope and a path forward even in times of great moral and spiritual decline.

---

SCRIPTURE RESEARCH

Idolatry and false worship - Judges 17:4-5 describes Micah making idols and setting up a shrine.

Exodus 20:4-5: "You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them."

1 Kings 12:28-29: "After seeking advice, the king made two golden calves. He said to the people, 'It is too much for you to go up to Jerusalem. Here are your gods, Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt.'"

Moral decay and lawlessness - Judges 21:25 states, "In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit."

Proverbs 14:12: "There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death."

2 Timothy 3:1-2: "But mark this There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy."

Consequences of turning away from God - The chaos and violence in Judges 19-21 illustrate the consequences of abandoning God's ways.

Jeremiah 2:19: "Your wickedness will punish you; your backsliding will rebuke you. Consider then and realize how evil and bitter it is for you when you forsake the Lord your God and have no awe of me."

Romans 1:28-29: "Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind, so that they do what ought not to be done. They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity."

Need for righteous leadership - The refrain "In those days Israel had no king" (Judges 17:6, 18:1, 19:1, 21:25) highlights the need for godly leadership.

Proverbs 29:2: "When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan."

1 Timothy 3:4-5: "He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect. (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God's church?)"