We turn away from God. We fail to love others. We follow the gods of the world. Despite everything, God loves us and faithfully waits for our return. This is the story told in the book of Judges. As Donald Baker leads you to examine it for yourself in this 12-session study, you may discover that Israel's story is your story as well.

Introduction

Getting the Most Out of Judges
This section introduces the topic, explains the structure followed in each study and offers tips for those approaching the study on their own as well as those participating in a group.

Session One

Caught in a Cycle of Misery
Verse 22 tells us the enemies "tested" Israel. What people, situations or things might God be using to test your loyalty and resolve?
Judges 2:6-23

Session Two

Breaking Free from Sin's Oppression
Think of this story as an allegory in which King Eglon represents the lusts and temptations you face. What does this teach you about sin? about preparing to defeat sin?
Judges 3:12-30

Session Three

Who Can I Trust?
How did each of the things Sisera trusted for protection fail? What people and things have you assumed would be there to rescue you in a crisis?
Judges 4

Session Four

Overcoming a Poor Self-Image
God's words "The LORD is with you, mighty warrior" and "Am I not sending you– can be applied to anyone God calls. For what reason is God speaking those words to you today?
Judges 6:1-32

Session Five

Changing Your Doubts to Faith
Many people have sought spiritual guidance by asking for a specific sign. Because they base this on what Gideon did in 6:36-40, this pracice is sometimes referred to as "fleecing." Have you or people you know ever tried it? What happened?
Judges 6:33-7:22

Session Six

The Importance of Character
The people refuse to listen to Jotham's warning that their leader's character will bring them doom. Why do we so often ignore the character flaws we find in our leaders and ourselves?
Judges 9

Session Seven

Conquering the Pain in Your Past
Imagine that you are a psychologist, and that Jephthah and the people of Israel have come to your office for family counseling. What problems do you see in this family?
Judges 11:1-14, 28-12:7

Session Eight

Preparing to Serve God
How would keeping the Nazirite vow have prepared Samson for God's service? What steps have you taken to prepare yourself for God's service?
Judges 13

Session Nine

Our Conflict with the World
The Israelites have lived under the Philistines' thumb for forty years without complaining. In surprising ways God uses Samson to create conflict where none has existed. In what areas should Christians be in conflict with the world?
Judges 14-15

Session Ten

Accepting Your Spiritual Gifts
Imagine the scene in verse 20 when Samson discovers that the Lord has left him. What thoughts, emotions and regrets would have gone through his mind? How would your life be different if the Lord suddenly withdrew his gifts from you?
Judges 16

Session Eleven

The Danger of False Religion
The author of Judges repeats the problem several times: "In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as he saw fit." What authority has God given to keep the Christian church from straying?
Judges 17-18

Session Twelve

Why Morality Matters
The Levite slept while his concubine was being raped and beaten. How did he attempt to justify his behavior? What role does God intend for his people to have in protecting the helpless?
Judges 19-21

Total number of pages—79 pages

Donald Baker is pastor of First Reformed Church of Doon, Iowa, and Bethel Reformed Church of Lester, Iowa. He formerly served as a staff member with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship/USA. He has written the LifeGuide® Bible StudiesDecisions, Joshua, Philippians and 1 & 2 Thessalonians.

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Judges: Returning to God