INTRODUCTION TO JUDGES
The book of Judges shows us the supreme judge. The centurion in Luke 7:8 recognized in Christ the supreme authority when he said “For I also am a man set under authority”. Christ values and judges all of our works. He judges why we do it and for whom we work. Is it for self or for the honor and glory of God?
The book of Judges is the second book of the governmental section. Some say Samuel wrote this book or maybe it was some written by some of his prophets in his school of prophets. Christ is seen as “The angel of the LORD” both to condemn and to compensate. Judges 2:1, 4; 5:23; 6:11-12 is an example of this along with other scripture. Please note chapter 1:2; here is the promise and the power to do His will. This book is a book of defeat, disappointment and disgrace. It gives account of compromise that resulted in incomplete possession, very little victory and living to please self. Please note the phrase “There was no king in Israel and every man did that which was right in his own eyes.” They failed to trust God’s Word and claim His promises. This prevails in our present day. It is a warning to Christians today to hold fast the profession of faith without wavering. Heb. 10:23. When we cease to submit to the LORD, we cease to rule ourselves. So always ask yourself, “Is this what the Lord wants me to do?” We have a high calling and must be mindful of our responsibility to our Lord and savior. This calling is from on high and must be done for His glory. For one day the sovereign Lord and Saviour will judge with a righteous judgement. We must keep the Lord always before us. He is our Lord and Saviour; do all for His glory, not to be seen of men. Learn from Israel’s mistakes and live for the King.
Israel was judged by twelve men and one woman. The most noted of the judges is Samson. It is said that after the victories of Joshua, comes spiritual poverty, idolatry, (Judges 17:1-18:31; immorality (19:1-30); and insurrection (20:1-21:25). This shows what walking in the flesh and being self-willed will do.
Remember New Testament verses; I Cor. 10:6,11, Heb. 3:12; 4:1-2,11; and Rom. 15:3,4. As you study the book of Judges, learn from their mistakes, and their sins. Do not get into the cycle they did. They served God, did evil, followed their own way, sold into slavery, servitude, cried out to God, turned to God, repented, judges raised up, delivered, serving God. Israel went through this cycle time and time again. Get the determination of Job, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him.” Let us not settle for compromise rather than conquest.
Please remember there is no place to stop nor to settle down. We cannot compromise nor let the work of God stop. There is always a battle to be fought, whether it is in the home, church, school or on the job. There are areas of our life that God wants us to conquer through His power; yes, even in prison.
Remember II Tim. 3:16-17. THIS IS THE GREAT NEED TODAY. So remember His promises and claim His power. Go forth and conquer in His name for His glory.
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