The Book of Judges

Introduction The Book of Judges picks up where Joshua left off. Israel is experiencing a season of rest until the leaders who served with Joshua died. The Israelites started to neglect their commitment to God. They forced tribes into slavery, refused to attack enemies, intermarried, and adopted pagan gods and customs. The Book of Judges traces the spiritual and political decay of the Israelites.

Introduction, Cont’d. The “Judges” in this book were charismatic leaders who led rebellions against Israel’s oppressors and also served as spiritual and political leaders of the nation or several of its territories. The Judges were empowered and raised up by God to deliver His people and execute judgment on their oppressors. The judges: Othniel, Ehud, Deborah, Gideon, Abimelech, Jephthah, Samson

Five Cycles of Characteristics Sin- Israel abandons God and turns to pagan idols. Servitude- God permits the enemy to enslave and His people. Supplication- Israel becomes desperate and turns to God confessing their sins and begging for help. Salvation- in the form of the ‘Judge’ who defeats the oppressor Silence- a period of rest during which the Judge helps Israel remain faithful to the Lord.

Cycle of Judges

Who is the Author of the Book of Judges? Samuel, the Prophet wrote the book of Judges. It is believed that Samuel, inspired by the Holy Spirit recorded all the events recorded in Judges. Samuel is the first male prophet to Israel since Moses.