Heart Prep:
After Joshua’s generation passed away, the Israelites began a troubling pattern of disobedience. They repeatedly turned away from God and worshiped foreign gods. Each time, God allowed them to face consequences prompting the Israelites to cry out for help. Yet God showed Himself faithful and gracious, responding by raising up judges like Othniel, Ehud, and Shamgar to deliver His people and bring temporary peace. However, these human judges could never provide lasting salvation or transform people’s hearts permanently. Their temporary help points us forward to our need for Jesu. He is the perfect and eternal Rescuer, who alone can forgive our sins, change our hearts, and grant everlasting peace through His death and resurrection.
Message:
After Joshua’s death, the Israelites repeatedly turned away from God, worshiping idols instead. As a result, God allowed enemy nations to conquer them, bringing consequences for their disobedience. When the Israelites cried out for help, God compassionately raised up judges – leaders who rescued Israel and guided them back to obedience. The first judge, Othniel, led Israel to victory and peace for 40 years. After Othniel died, the people returned to idolatry, prompting God to raise Ehud. Ehud defeated King Eglon of Moab and brought 80 years of peace. Later, Shamgar also saved Israel from the Philistines. This ongoing cycle of sin, consequences, repentance, and deliverance showed Israel’s continual need for God’s grace and pointed toward their ultimate need for a permanent Savior Jesus Christ.
Main Point:
“God brought consequences to His people for their sins, but He also raised up judges to save them from their enemies. We also have consequences for our sins, but God sent Jesus to save us from our sins once and for all.”
Discussion:
The Israelites turned to false gods. What might we turn to instead of worshiping God?
The world has many things we might be tempted to turn to rather than God. We might seek after popularity, grades, success, sports, or even people above God. God gives us opportunities every day to turn from sin and turn to Jesus. (Option: read Heb. 3:12-13.)
How can we turn away from a cycle of rebellion?
We will constantly fight sin in our life. The Bible tells us that one of the best ways to fight sin in our life is by putting on the armor of God. We must be aware of sin and areas in our lives where we are tempted to sin. The Holy Spirit empowers Christians to turn away from sin. (Option: read Eph. 6:10-13.)
Why is Jesus a greater Rescuer than the judges from our story?
Jesus never sinned and was able to defeat sin and death through His sacrifice on the cross. He has always existed and lives forever. The judges from our story could not completely save people. That is, they could not take away sin, offer forgiveness, and give people new life through the Spirit. Jesus completely saves those who trust in Him. (Option: read Heb. 7:25.)
