The first three chapters of Judges set the stage for Israel’s spiritual and moral struggles after Joshua’s death. They highlight Israel’s initial victories, their compromises, and the cycle of sin that defines this book.
The cycle sin starts with rebellion. A group of people choosing to turn away from God. Enslaved by bad choices the people are oppressed. Next comes cries for help. Calling on God for intervention. Finally, in His grace and awesomeness, God provides a way out. In the book of Judges, God raises a judge to provide deliverance. In life, God send a lifeboat.
Judge #1 – Othniel - Judges 3:7-11 Israel turned away from God and worshiped other God’s. King of Mesopotamia oppressed them for eight years. Othniel, Caleb’s nephew, was empowered by God to lead Israel in battle, defeating the king. The defeat resulted in forty years of peace.
Judge #2 – Ehud - Judges 3:12-30 After Othniel’s death, Isreal fell into sin again. Eglon, king of Moab ruled over Isreal for eighteen years. Ehud, a left-handed man from the tribe of Benjamin, assassinated King Eglon by stabbing him with a hidden dagger. This led to Israel’s victory over Moab. Isreal enjoyed eighty years after his victory, the longest period of peace under any judge.
Judge #3 – Shamgar - Judges 3:31 Again the Israelites were oppressed by Philistines. Shamgar, empowered by God, fought alone and killed 600 Philistines with a farming tool. He saved Israel.
Psalm 70 a short but urgent plea for God’s rescue. David cries out for quick rescue from his enemies while also acknowledging his humble dependence on God.
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