Understanding Christianity

Verses 1-6 give us the thesis or central teaching of the book of Judges. The LORD disciplines His people because they have been paganized by the world around them. In verses 7-11, we first see this cycle that will be repeated throughout the book of Judges, and it involves seven steps. First, Israel does evil, which angers the LORD. Second, the LORD disciplines Israel by selling them under the oppression and distress of a foreign enemy. Third, the people cry out in anguish for relief. Fourth, the LORD raises up a Spirit-empowered judge to save Israel. Fifth, the LORD grants victory over the enemy. Sixth, the land has a period of rest from war and oppression. Seventh, the judge dies, thus removing his restraining influence on Israel’s sin. Pastor Sean concludes the sermon by showing how this passage points to God's grace in the gospel of Christ. www.seancole.net