READ JUDGES 20
GO DEEPER
While reading through Judges, it may seem as if you are viewing a film where eventually good triumphs over evil. However, the book of Judges does not offer that satisfaction. Instead, the situations depicted progressively become more grim. This particular chapter may be the bleakest one yet, beginning with the harrowing account of a woman who is brutally assaulted, killed, and dismembered, and her remains dispersed. Subsequently, the Israelites seek retribution against the Benjamites. The ensuing events read like scenes from a war film, evoking a sense of unease and discomfort, as intended by the narrative.
The Benjamites carried out an unfair and deeply evil deed. Israel aims to eliminate these wicked individuals from their community. Immediately, Israel suffers defeats in two battles during this internal conflict due to their wrongdoing. The Lord permits the defeats, but verse 26 mentions that "all the Israelites" made sacrifices to atone for their sins. It appears that God wants the Israelites to address their sins before addressing those of others. This is a mindset that Christians today should adopt.
Judges 20 depicts a scene of death and conflict. A common query that may arise as we approach the conclusion of Judges is, "Why is God permitting these events to unfold?" Amidst the escalating darkness portrayed in the book of Judges, it is crucial to note that God remains present. The prevailing issue is that people are progressively turning away from God. The nation of Israel was engulfed in sin, leading to a deepening darkness in their world.
God permitted the Israelites to face defeat in two battles, as they had not addressed their issues first. The only wrongdoing we have power over is our own. Even during this troubling period in Israel's past, God remains concerned about unconfessed sins.
QUESTIONS
1. Who requires the most restoration from sin in your life—yourself or those in your surroundings?
2. How have you encountered unconfessed sin that continues to grow and darken?
3. God is concerned for you and desires you to be free from sin. How can you make a commitment today to confess, repent, and embrace liberation, letting go of the deep and dark sins of the past?