Joshua & Judges
Lesson 1, Joshua 1 & 2
This introductory lesson to the book of Joshua gives an overview of the back story leading up to the children of Israel entering the Promised Land. Why does God tell Joshua to be strong and courageous, and how could he do that? Rahab is introduced through the account of the spies entering Jericho and taking refuge in her house. Respect for God was essential in how the Israelites were to relate to the ark of the covenant. Is respect a lost value today?
Lesson 2, Joshua 3-8
The Israelites prepare to cross the Jordan River during flood stage and are told to memorialize this miraculous event with a monument of stones. What details allow us to accept this account as factual in the wake of criticism by skeptics? Explore the significance of how often the number 7 appears in this narrative. What were the differences between God's instructions related to conquering the city of Jericho and the town of Ai? How serious are the consequences of sin?
God commanded the Israelites to recite blessings and curses from the law in a ceremony on Mt. Gerizim and Mt. Ebal after they entered Canaan. Several points are taken from Joshua's farewell address to the people as he encourages them to obey and live holy lives by not marrying idol worshipers from the surrounding nations. This wisdom remains true today as revealed in a study of generational religious decline. The importance of encouraging others is supported by Scripture.
Lesson 3, Joshua 8-24
Lesson 4, Joshua 9-24
The Hittite nation mentioned in Joshua confirms that archaeological evidence supports Bible narratives. The Israelite leaders are deceived by the Gibeonites with far-reaching consequences. Is there a lesson for us today? Two important points are made concerning the taking of oaths. The fighting men from the eastern tribes go back across the Jordan, but their act of building a memorial is confronted by the tribes on the west. Can we make application regarding the need to confront sin?
Lesson 1, Judges 2:1-21
The first introductory question answered in this lesson is Who is it the Old Testament refers to as "the angel of the Lord"? The second question is What tools did God institute so that His people would remember His laws and not forget His covenant? Judges gives a litany of evidence that the Israelites forgot their relationship with God and failed to pass their faith to succeeding generations, which set up the recurring cycle of sin, punishment, repentance and rescue. Four ways are mentioned in which God's people forsook Him.
The prevalence of cult prostitution throughout the time of the patriarchs, the conquest of Canaan, and the monarchy is examined. The rise of Israel's first judge, Othniel, occurs following a period of widespread Baal worship and oppression by the nation of Aram. The grisly assassination of King Eglon by Ehud, the second judge, brings an end to subjugation by Moab. Why did the Israelites so quickly forsake the Lord God Almighty? What applicable lessons can be made for us today since human nature is prone to wander?
Lesson 2, Judges 3:5-30
Lesson 3, Judges 4-6
The account of Deborah, judge of Israel, is introduced with a discussion of the controversial topic of the role of women in church leadership. Under Deborah, Israel is oppressed by the Canaanites, and she calls on Barak to command Israel's forces. Barak's hesitancy to accept the call results in a woman receiving credit for Israel's victory as Jael brutally does away with Sisera, the Canaanite commander. The story of the next judge, Gideon, is introduced. His example of humility is a trait Christians need to pursue.
Lesson 4, Judges 6-8
Gideon's family's participation in idol worship is a contrast to Gideon's own encounter with the angel of God. How one person in a generation of idol worshipers can have a heart for God is explored. The dramatic story of Gideon's army of 300 men overpowering the Midianite camp with hordes of soldiers demonstrates what God can do with one man of faith, even though that faith may be small. In spite of Gideon's humility and faith, his life's end exhibits major flaws, and Israel once again turns to idolatry.
Lesson 5, Judges 13-16
Samson's life story is explored, beginning with his parents' commitment to raise their promised son in a way that would please God. Samson's character deficiencies differ in reality from the typical presentation in children's Bible storybooks. Directives related to the Nazirite vow are examined as well as all the ways in which Samson flaunted this vow. Samson's tragic end is a warning against living a life controlled by emotions.