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Submitted: Oct 28 2012 04:33 AM
Last Updated: Jun 15 2025 12:27 PM
File Size: 814.77K
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Author: Frank Wallace
e-Sword Version: 9.x - 10.x

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Author:
Frank Wallace

e-Sword Version:
9.x - 10.x

The book of Judges is a sad book in many respects. It opens on a very high note. Two tribes were dependent upon the Lord and concerned about acquiring the territory that belonged to them in the purpose of God, a very noble ideal. There were clearly people operating in the mind of the Lord, but when we come to the end of the book we find a very, very sad condition, "In those days there was no king in Israel; every man did that which was right in his own eyes" (Jdg_21:25). There was no direction, no order, no law, but instead independency and lawlessness. What a sad end to such a promising start. This book contains high heights of faith and courage, but it also contains abysmal depths of sin, lawlessness and wickedness. In many ways it represents the days in which we find ourselves. Many of the people of God are concerned about the situation, and seek help from the Lord to do that which is right, but unfortunately many others, professing the name of Christ are not concerned about His glory or about His truth.

The book occupies a very interesting place in the history of God's dealings with His people, Israel. Preceding it is the glorious dual leadership of Moses and Joshua; Moses, the great deliverer out of Egypt, the lawgiver, the leader through the wilderness, the great man of God, the man who spoke to God "face to face" (Exo_33:11), a man who was indeed for God in every sense of the word; and Joshua, his successor, leading the nation into the land, possessing much of the territory, setting a personal example to the nation, exhorting them not to serve other gods, and in spite of all that was against them, he could say, "but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord" (Jos_24:15). And then, immediately following it, we find the great recovery beginning with the Moabitish maiden, Ruth, and the recovery of Naomi. This paved the way for the introduction of Hannah, Samuel, David and Solomon, the great heights to which Israel rose under the power and the might of God. Here, between these two great peaks of glory and blessing we find a valley of darkness, of failure, and of departure from God. Thank God there are those that shine brightly in it, men and women inspired with a desire to be true to God, a desire to be faithful in a day when many were not.

Synopsis

The Days of the Judges by Frank Wallace offers a compelling exploration of a pivotal period in biblical history, focusing on the era between the conquest of Canaan and the establishment of the monarchy in Israel. This period, known as the time of the Judges, is characterized by a cycle of moral decline, repeated apostasies, and divine intervention through various leaders known as judges.

The book begins by setting the historical and spiritual context of Israel's transition from a loosely connected confederation of tribes to a nation facing moral and spiritual decay. Wallace vividly depicts how the Israelites, after settling in Canaan, frequently turn away from Yahweh, engaging in idolatry and forsaking their covenant responsibilities. This unfaithfulness leads to cycles of hardship, oppression by neighboring nations, and eventual repentance by the people.

Throughout the narrative, Wallace introduces several key judges—leaders raised up by God to deliver Israel from their enemies. Notable figures such as Deborah, Gideon, Jephthah, and Samson are portrayed not only as military deliverers but also as complex characters grappling with their faith, weaknesses, and divine calling. Deborah, the prophetess and judge, exemplifies wisdom and spiritual insight, guiding Israel in times of crisis. Gideon demonstrates humility and obedience, leading Israel to victory against the Midianites despite his initial doubts. Jephthah's story underscores the tragic consequences of rash vows, while Samson's life reflects both divine strength and personal weakness.

Wallace emphasizes the cyclical nature of the Judges period: Israel's sin leads to God's discipline, which results in hardship; the people then cry out to God, who raises up a judge, delivering them temporarily; peace is restored until the cycle repeats. This pattern underscores themes of divine mercy, human failure, and the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant.

A key theme in the book is the moral and spiritual decline of Israel, exemplified by stories like the decline of moral standards during the time of the judges. Wallace discusses how the absence of strong centralized leadership led to chaos and lawlessness, with the narrative highlighting the importance of righteous leadership and faithfulness to God's laws. The story of Micah's idol and the Levite's concubine illustrates the depth of spiritual depravity and social disorder during this time.

Despite the chaos, Wallace underscores God's persistent mercy and His use of imperfect leaders to accomplish His purposes. The book concludes with reflections on the consequences of Israel's disobedience and the need for genuine faithfulness. The period of the judges serves as a warning about the dangers of moral relativism and the importance of steadfast devotion to God.

In summary, The Days of the Judges by Frank Wallace provides a vivid, detailed account of a turbulent but formative period in Israel's history. Through engaging storytelling and theological insights, Wallace highlights the cyclical pattern of sin and salvation, emphasizing that true leadership and faithfulness are essential for national and spiritual stability. The book ultimately calls readers to reflect on the importance of obedience and trust in God's plan for their lives.