Justin Holcomb » God Biblical Theology Study Scripture Books of the Bible

Author and Dates

The earliest the book of Judges could have been written is after the monarchy of Israel was established (1020 B.C.). However, it could have been written as late as the exile (586 – 538 B.C.). The book's author is not explicitly mentioned.

 

Purpose

To support the monarchy and give reasons why they needed a king (a king described in Deut 17). As well as to inspire God’s people to resist their selfish impulses and trust God as their need for a king becomes apparent. 

 

Outline

Faltering conquest (1:1-2:5)

• Joshua’s victory was only partial (Josh. 15:63, 16:10, 17:13, 24:16-20)
• The conquest was incomplete and idolatry increased (Judges 2:12,14)

Cycles under the rule of “the Judges” (2:6-16:31)

• Cycle of oppression, retribution, mercy, deliverance, sin….
• Samson (13-16)

Anarchy was rampant under the Levites: religious and moral disorder (17-21). 

 

Major Characters

God, Angel of the Lord, Othniel, Ehud, Deborah, Gideon, Abimelech, Jepthah, Samson, and Levites 

 

Book Summary

The book of Judges is a fascinating collection of stories containing humor, tragedy, and irony. Following the successful endeavors of Joshua, the next generations are faced with the challenge of continuing the acquisition of the Promised Land. But in contrast to the faithfulness that marked Joshua’s generation, the present Israelites proved far more fickle. Several narratives are strung together with a rich diversity of characters. 

Each story is comical and tragic. Despite God’s abiding presence and faithfulness, the Israelites choose to abandon God’s ways and seek their own desires. Each narrative records the great consequences of their actions and their plea to God for help. Revealing their folly and faithlessness, God continually rescued Israel from their self-afflicted plight. 

Two central lessons are found in the book of Judges: First, the welfare of the nation depended directly on a knowledge of God’s will, laid out in the Torah; Second, God would punish his people for their unfaithfulness to his covenant. 

 

Themes

The Nature of Humanity - humanity is capable of great goodness as well as the greatest shame 

The Abiding Presence of God - God is always with his people, despite the appearance of his absence

Consequences - Acts of infidelity do render consequences despite God’s grace and forgiveness

God’s Constant Rescue of His People

 

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