Introduction to the book of Judges.
The title of this book of Judges describes the type of leaders that God raised up for
Israel after Joshua.
Joshua led Israel in the conquest and settlement of the Promised Land.
The Judges were not kings, nor did they have power like that of leaders such as
Moses and Joshua.
These Judges were spirit-appointed military leaders who took action when
Israel needed deliverance from foreign oppressors.
God had not given Israel a leader after Joshua.
God had given Israel the land and His law, plus a central place of worship,
but no central government.
God Himself was to be the head of the nation.
Israel was to obey God's laws, and God promised to protect and provide
for them.
The book of Judges records the cycle of the nation Israel as the people repeatedly
fell into sin and idolatry, were oppressed by foreign powers, then cried to the Lord
for help, and finally were rescued by a judge who would deliver them to serve God
again.
Many believe the prophet Samuel wrote this book around 1050 to 1000 BC.
Verse 6 of chapter 17, as well as the last verse of the book of Judges, describes the
period of the Judges.
It was a time when every man did that which was right in his own eyes.
As you listen, notice the greatness of God's mercy and patience as He delivers
His people over and over again.