Judges – When Every Man Did That Which Was Right in His Own Eyes

🌿 Introduction

“In those days there was no king in Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes.” – Judges 21:25

The book of Judges is a raw and riveting account of Israel’s moral and spiritual decline after the death of Joshua. It reveals a cycle of rebellion, oppression, repentance, and deliverance, showing what happens when a nation forgets its God. Yet, even in the darkest times, the LORD raised up deliverers—judges—to rescue His people and restore them, if only for a time. Judges invites you to see God’s justice and mercy in action, offering hope even in chaos.

📜 Structure of Judges

  • Chapters 1–2: Israel’s failure to fully drive out the Canaanites
  • Chapters 3–16: The cycles of the Judges (Othniel to Samson)
  • Chapters 17–21: Spiritual confusion and civil war—chaos without a king

💡 Key Themes

  • Disobedience leads to downfall
  • God’s mercy despite unfaithfulness
  • The need for righteous leadership
  • The cost of idolatry and compromise

👑 Key People to Watch For

  • Deborah – the prophetess and warrior
  • Gideon – the fearful man turned mighty in God’s hand
  • Jephthah – the outcast who judged with a vow
  • Samson – the strong man with a weak will

🔥 Why This Book Still Matters

Judges shows what happens when a nation forgets God—but it also shows how He never forgets His people. It points ahead to the need for a true and righteous King—fulfilled in Christ Jesus. It reminds us that no matter how broken we are, God still raises up deliverers for His glory.

Ready to Go Deeper?

👉 Click here to begin reading Judges chapter 1

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