Judges (2021)

What happens to a people and their country when they ignore God? Listen to this last message from the Book of Judges to find out how rapidly a civilization collapses into chaos. Hear this episode in the book where the people of Israel are upset over what has happened to the tribe of Benjamin. See how instead of blaming themselves for this, they blamed God and worked on human solutions to solve the problem. Be challenged by four lessons we can learn from this book that are relevant for our lives today. Dr. Dean mentioned that next week he's going to start to teach the Interlocked series based on Charlie Clough's Bible Framework. Click on the link to get a sneak peek of this impactful study, as well as to download the materials for this course.

Why did the Israelites lose the first two battles with the tribe of Benjamin when they had gone to God for guidance? Listen to this lesson to learn that they were wanting God to approve their own plans rather than wanting to do things God's way. Learn that we have to come to God on His terms. See how they did things differently when they sought God about the third battle and hear what God promised them. Recognize the parallels with our own nation today as most are turning their back on God and His ways.

Israel was in a state of collapse because they had turned their back on God. The attack and murder of the Levite's concubine stirred the people to action and they mobilized an army. Find out what the tribe of Benjamin did when Israel demanded the ones who had committed this crime be turned over to them. See that they came up with their own solution to the problem instead of seeking God's perfect solution. Just like the Israelites, we are imploding in our own nation. Be challenged to study the Word of God and walk by means of the Holy Spirit during these days of chaos.

Just when you thought things were as bad as they could be, they get worse! Listen to this message to continue the story of the attack and horrific murder of the Levite priest's concubine. Find out the parallels between this incident and what happened in Sodom and see the lessons being taught. Hear what cold-blooded act the Levite priest does. Learn that no matter what level of evil mankind reaches, God's grace is there to provide a solution.

What was a concubine in ancient Israel? Listen to this message to learn that this was not part of God's design but it was a custom of that part of the world. A concubine was a legitimate wife but of a secondary status. Hear an intriguing overview told from the end to the beginning of what events caused an almost near annihilation of the tribe of Benjamin. See the role a horrific gang rape and killing of a Levite's concubine played in this and be warned that all of these events were caused by a series of bad, immoral decisions.

What leads to lawlessness in a nation? Listen to this lesson to learn that when individuals depart from God they become involved in the arrogance skills with disastrous results for their nation. See how failure to honor God and love your neighbor as yourself is a road to ruin and violence. Find out that when absolutes break down it can result in the destruction of a nation and civil war.

Do you view God as a good luck charm? Sadly there are people who think like that. Listen to this lesson to hear about an event in Israel when the tribe of Dan were in apostasy. They were homeless because they had not trusted God to take possession of the land He had given them, so they moved in on other people's homes. See how their actions resulted in apostasy spreading throughout the land. Understand that when this occurs the only way to recover is to turn back to God. Dr. Dean mentioned that when he completes the Judges series he's going to teach the Interlocked series based on Charlie Clough's Bible Framework. Click on the link to get a sneak peek of this impactful study, as well as to download the materials for this course. During this lesson Dr. Dean referred to a book by Larry Collins and Dominique Lapierre entitled O Jerusalem,

What's wrong with religion? Listen to this message to learn what all religions share in common and that Christianity is not a religion but a relationship with God. Hear how idolatry was brought to Israel by Micah and his mother. See how superstition became the cornerstone of their worship and understand that we need to make the Word of God the core principle of our lives. Dr. Dean also mentioned that once he completes the Judges series he's planning on teaching the Interlocked series based on Charlie Clough's Bible Framework. Click on the link to get a sneak peek of this impactful study.

Can a revival turn our nation around from its pagan ways? Listen to this lesson to learn what biblical worship is and what must be at the center of all revival or renewal movements. Hear a number of examples of renewal of the nation of Israel from the Old Testament. Learn about the role of music in worship and what that involves. Hear about ten revivals in United States' history, including the latest Asbury revival. Be challenged to evaluate worship to make certain it is not based on deception.

Are there many ways of worship? Listen to this message to learn that God says there is only one way and He sets out the specifics. Hear about a man named Micah who set up an alternate idolatrous religion in Israel and the chaos that followed. As believers we are to see the world as God has defined it and not follow man's viewpoint. During this message Dr. Dean referred to research from Arizona Christian University.

How does our worldview develop? Listen to this lesson to learn that biblicism must be taught and it does not develop randomly. As we continue in Judges find out why the culture was falling apart. Understand that there is only one way to worship God and He has established that way. Learn that religious apostasy always precedes cultural chaos. During this message Dr. Dean referred to research from Arizona Christian University. Dr. Dean also mentioned that once he completes the Judges series he's planning on teaching the Interlocked series based on Charlie Clough's Bible Framework. Click on the link to get a sneak peek of this impactful study.

Why did God allow Samson to go his reckless, carnal way as the years went by? Listen to this lesson to see that Samson was used in a spectacular way to carry out God's plan for Israel. Hear about Delilah and how she enticed Samson to reveal the secret of his strength. Find out how Samson finally turned to the Lord for help and destroyed the leaders and power brokers of Israel's enemy, the Philistines.

Why do believers have tests and adversities? Listen to this lesson to learn that these tests are designed to mature us. Continue in the study of Samson's life and see that there is no indication that he learned from the tests he had as he constantly ran aground on his self-centered, reckless path. Hear a number of principles concerning tests, including how even though we cannot escape them, we can have the strength to endure them by trusting God's provision of grace.

If you like true adventure literature, listen as the story of Samson's troublemaking exploits continues. Hear about his unique way of using jackals to destroy the economy of the Philistines. Find out his own countrymen tried to deliver him into the hands of the enemy and see that the Holy Spirit empowered him in a spectacular victory over them. Understand from this that just like Samson we can become as pagan as the culture around us unless we learn to think biblically by studying the Scriptures.

Irresponsible Samson is up to his arrogant, selfish tricks again in this week's lesson as he takes a Philistine wife and plans a feast to celebrate. Find out who is invited to his feast and the wager and riddle he presents to them concerning his experience with a young lion. Hear how the new wife gets the answer to the riddle out of him by tears and pleading and the disastrous results Samson pursues as he pays the wager. Recognize from this that although Samson is totally disinterested in spiritual matters, God is always at work using Samson's actions to fulfill His sovereign plans. The Crisis in Pastoral Leadership booklet that Dr. Dean referenced at the beginning of this lesson is available in the Text: notes link below. The Gatestone Institute article that Dr. Dean referred to is Is Putin Destroying Russia.

Do you know you are personally responsible for all your choices and the consequences that come from them? Listen to this lesson to learn that God works behind the scenes to see that His sovereign will is always carried out ultimately. Find out that rebellious, self-centered Samson made decisions based on his selfish lusts, but God worked behind the scenes to use Samson's choices to disrupt relations with the Philistines. Hear an incident in Samson's life involving a young woman and a lion and the trouble that was caused.

Are you tempted just to stay quiet when those around you are expressing views that are opposed to God's Word? Listen to this lesson to see what relativism is and how it is affecting us in our world today. Find out that was what was happening in Israel in the time of Samson's judgeship. Hear how Samson's life paralleled that of a compromised, carnal Christian and understand the need to saturate your thinking in the Word of God so you can oppose the evil around you. During this lesson Dr. Dean mentioned several devotionals he references daily which show God's intervention throughout history. These include: The Living Word: Daily Readings on the History, Influence and Impact of the Bible, Her Story, 100 Bible Verses That Made America: Defining Moments That Shaped Our Enduring Foundation of Faith, and On This Day 365 Amazing And Inspiring Stories About Saints, Martyrs And Heroes.

What's in a name? Listen to this powerful message explaining the significance of names in Scripture and see a number of the names for God which reveal His essence or character. Learn that the Angel of the Lord refers to the Lord Jesus Christ when He appeared or spoke to communicate with humans. Understand why Samson's mother recognized that the man of God, as she called him, was recognized by her to be God. Find out what He told her about the son she was to give birth to.

Would you be surprised to learn that the Angel of the Lord in the Bible is not an angel? Listen to this lesson to hear about a number of times the Angel of the Lord appeared to people and who He really is. Hear the announcement He made to Samson's mother about his impending birth. Find out what it meant to take the Nazirite vow and the restrictions that were to be followed. Realize how longsuffering God was toward Samson and see that He lovingly shows us that same patience. Click here to access the cultural information Dr. Dean mentioned during this class.

Was Samson a hero or a disgraceful, lawless man? Listen to a new study of this man who earned both those descriptions during his lifetime. Find out who the Philistines were and where they dwelled. Learn about the parents of Samson. See that his mother was barren for many years and learn that barrenness was true of many of the most notable women of the Old Testament. See that physical barrenness is a picture of the spiritual barrenness of all of us when we are born, but that God gives new life when we believe in Christ as our Savior.

Are you discouraged from living in the midst of chaos in our country and around the world? Listen to this stirring message to learn that God's grace is always acting on behalf of believers. Hear a summary of the stages of discipline that God warned Israel would happen if they did not obey Him and also the blessings they were promised when they did obey Him. Understand that God's judgment is part of His love and that grace is always available when we turn to Him.

What led to the disintegration of the nation of Israel in the days of the Judges? Listen to this lesson to learn that they had turned their backs on God and bitter antagonisms blew up among themselves. See that God is silent during this time and does not interfere but allows them to reap the consequences of their arrogant actions. Understand that there were pockets of prosperity at times but overall, it was a tragic period in their history. Understand our own nation is following this same course today.

How can a man who sacrificed his own daughter be mentioned in Hebrews 11's list of those who at a critical time in their lives displayed faith in God? Listen to this lesson to learn that this is an example of God's grace. Hear how Jephthah's self absorption was displayed by blaming his daughter causing him to have to sacrifice her. See several points of contrast between Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his only son, Isaac, and Jephthah's sacrifice of his only daughter. Realize that under the Mosaic Law Jephthah could have redeemed his daughter. Hear an update from Paul Scharf on his ministry with Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry.

What does it mean that the Spirit of God came upon Jephthah? Listen to this lesson to learn what the role of the Holy Spirit was in the Old Testament. Hear examples of times when the Spirit was upon certain individuals and what the purpose was. Learn about Jephthah's vow and see that pagan practices lead to evil events.

The Israelites are in trouble again in this passage. They have rejected God and worshiped idols so God judges them by sending an enemy to invade their land. They call out for help and once again, God, in His grace, helps them. See what Jephthah does when he encounters the enemies and their leader. Study the geography of the area from the slides to understand where this is taking place. Be challenged to accept that God uses all types of people to carry out His plans, which should give us great confidence that we, too, can be used.

Does God only use people who fit our expectations for leadership? Listen to this lesson to learn about a time when no one in Israel was willing to lead the people and they sought out a tough guy who was a gang or cartel member and robbed and plundered. See that this man, Jephthah, was the son of a prostitute, which put him in a lower social order. Find out that the Israelites were in dire straits and had been invaded by enemies because they had turned their backs on God. Learn what the Torah taught about idolatry and what it means that God's anger was aroused against the people.

Clear the decks and get ready to listen to this message to learn about the irrational thinking that is destroying our civilization today. Hear about the clash of ideas beginning in ancient times between biblical thinking and paganism. See a timeline for the philosophical underpinnings of the early continuity of being thinkers who taught that god and man are one and all have a spark of divinity in them. In contrast, learn that there is one God and He is the Creator and there is always a distinction between Him and the creature. See that the only ideas that give stability to a nation are the ideas that come out of the Bible.

Where do the ideas and concepts you have come from and how do they affect your life? Listen to this lesson to learn that what you think about God will shape all of your thinking. Hear about the demonic ideas of the fertility gods of the Near Eastern religions which are still prevalent in the thinking of most people today. Understand the scale of being and its complete rejection of divine institutions. Examine your own thinking to see what pagan concepts you hold so you can replace them with biblical truth. The link for the teen's and children's "Bible Framework" known as "Interlocked" is available here It is now also available in Spanish and German..

Do you worship the Creator of the universe or what He created? Listen to this lesson to begin a study of the distinction between the Creator and the creation. Hear the story of origins as told by the pagans and see how they borrowed bits from the Bible but came up with their own false thinking. Find out what the Chain of Being is and the concept of existence. Hear about the gods and goddesses that were worshiped and see how they were all backed by demonic powers. Take time to think how you may have been tainted with some of these beliefs by the culture you live in. The link for the teen's and children's "Bible Framework" known as "Interlocked" is available here It is now also available in Spanish and German..

Why were the ancient Israelites constantly in turmoil and having to fight off their enemies? Listen to this fascinating message to learn about the cycles of evil that happened when the people of Israel abandoned God and were totally influenced by the pagan gods inspired by Satan. Find out that God in His grace delivered them over and over but they returned to their evil ways throughout much of their history. Realize that we face the same pagan influences today and must choose to trust God rather than live like those around us.

After the chaos during the judgeship of Abimelech, hear there was a peaceful period when five judges ruled Israel. See that the people of Israel gradually returned to their old ways of abandoning God and serving idols until God again judged them and allowed outside enemies to attack them. Learn about some of the pagan gods they worshiped instead of the one true God. Just as in those days, we, too, must choose daily if we will serve God or false gods.

Do you like to see justice done when someone has committed a wrong? Listen to this message to hear about a time when God's unseen hand was at work punishing Abimelech and the people of Shechem for the evil they had done. Hear about the battle that took place and how a woman wounded Abimelech by dropping a stone on him from a wall. Be assured that God is always at work providentially and that evil will always be repaid.

After Gideon was told by God how to destroy the enemies of his country, he failed to give God the recognition due Him, but became like an eastern potentate. What were the consequences of this on the next generation of his family? Listen to this lesson to hear about one of his sons, Abimelech, who killed all but one of his 70 brothers in order to become king. Hear the bramble fable told by the surviving brother, Jotham, as he warned the people about what was going to happen to the nation. Realize that we too, need to be aware of what is happening in our country and pray for God's help in overturning the evil forces.

What does the Bible teach about government? Listen to this lesson to begin a study comparing the days of the Judges in Israel with what is happening in America today. Follow a history of how the laws governing countries developed in western civilization and the influence they had on our Founding Fathers. See that when the people of a country slide into paganism and abandon godly principles, their country begins to collapse. Hear a four-part definition of paganism. Books mentioned by Dr. Dean during this class include: • Lex Rex by Samuel Rutherford. • A Match Made in Heaven: American Jews, Christian Zionists, and One Man's Exploration of the Weird and Wonderful Judeo-Evangelical Alliance by Zev Chafets. The movie Dr. Dean referenced is God's Not Dead.

How grateful are you today for all God has done in your life? Listen to this message to hear thirteen life-changing principles about gratitude and the importance of living in the light of that thanksgiving. As you hear this review of the tragic way Gideon failed to remember God's help and began to demand tribute from his people in a kingly manner, remember to make time in your day to show your thankfulness to the One who makes all your blessings possible.

What happens when the leaders and people of a nation are operating on pure paganism? Listen to this lesson to learn the tragic story of how Gideon went from trusting God for a great victory and then reverted back to paganism. Hear how he took his weary army to Succoth and was treated rudely. See his punishment of the people of Succoth in a way not based on the Mosaic Law. Learn how he turned down a chance to be king but enabled the people of Israel to return to their idol worship. During the announcements Dr. Dean mentioned the upcoming Pre-Trib Rapture Study Group conference. For more information, visit www.pre-trib.org

How does God make certain that everyone realizes that He is the one who wins our battles and delivers us? Listen to this lesson about Gideon to learn how God refined the troops under Gideon's command. Find out why Gideon was to choose those who lapped the water rather than those who kneeled to drink. See how God in His grace gave Gideon an extra shot of confidence before the battle. Hear the one place in the Book of Judges where someone worships God and understand that the battle is always the Lord's. The senior British Army officer referred to during this class is Major General Orde Wingate.

Are you easily frightened and constantly anxious? Listen to this lesson to learn life-changing principles about fear and how it can destroy your life. Find out biblical solutions involving trusting God and hear a number of Bible promises that you need to call to mind when in a fearful situation. Continue hearing how God gave Gideon victory, in spite of his fears. against the overwhelming forces of the Midianites.

Where is the first reference to the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament? Listen to this lesson to learn that He is mentioned in Genesis 1:2. Find out that Job, which may be the first book that was written, mentions the Holy Spirit's distinct role and divinity. Take a journey through the remainder of the Hebrew Scriptures to hear a number of references to the Holy Spirit aiding people in craftsmanship, military leadership, and prophecy. Appreciate that all believers in the Church Age are indwelt permanently and we need not fear the Holy Spirit being taken from us.

Would you like to know more about the Holy Spirit and His role in your life? Listen to this message to begin a detailed study of the Holy Spirit as He is presented both in the Old and the New Testaments. Learn that He is a distinct Person and Member of the Trinity and not just a force. See that from the oldest books in the Bible the Holy Spirit is a part of Creation and guidance. Hear passages that describe His divine essence, equal with both God the Father and God the Son, and see what the believers in the first century knew of Him.

Do the Scriptures contain all we need to know to find God's will for our lives? Listen to this message to hear examples of Old and New Testament believers who were guided in their decisions. See how Balaam and his talking donkey were shown God's will. Hear about New Testament decision making which came from the wisdom found in the Word of God. On a personal level in making a decision, always consider how it will impact your spiritual life.

Are you facing some challenging decisions and you'd like to know what God's will is for you? Listen to this message to hear nine biblical principles that will guide you in implementing the will of God in your life. Find out about the various categories of God's will and the means to attaining wisdom as you study God's Word. If your life's goal is to glorify God, then trust that He will open doors and shut down wrong ways as you move along the paths before you. During this lesson Dr. Dean mentioned the amazing story of the five young missionaries who were slaughtered by the Auca Indians as the missionaries arrived in their territory to give them the gospel and how God used that incident to bring glory to Himself.

How can you know God's will for your life? Listen to this comprehensive message concerning the many categories of the will of God and how you can learn to make wise decisions. Hear six principles about the will of God and learn that you need to understand the dispensation you are living in. See that God's will is for every person to become a believer in Christ's death on the Cross. Once a believer, God's will is for you to grow to spiritual maturity. Learn the difference between God's sovereign will, revealed will, and permissive will.

How intimidated are you by the pressure to conform to the worldview around you? Listen to this message to see how Gideon was caught between obedience to God and the paganism of his family. Find out why his father changed his name and its significance. Begin a study of the will of God and how to find out what it is.

How can we make decisions based on biblical wisdom when we are being pressured to conform to the spirit of the age we live in? Listen to this thoughtful message to hear three options we have when we are under pressure to do something which we know is counter to God's truth. Hear examples from Scripture of how believers have handled this situation in times past. Be ready to apply these principles in your own life as you encounter them. During this lesson Dr. Dean referenced Arizona Christian University's Cultural Research Center's homepage.

How are you handling all the crazed chaos happening in the world today? Are you just trying to stay under the radar, get yourself comfortable, and keep from standing out so you won't lose your job or be ridiculed? Listen to this message to learn what the Bible has to say about what we should be doing in times like these. Find out how to transform your thinking from human viewpoint to divine viewpoint. Hear a history of how this demonic thinking was slowed down in our country by the Great Depression and World War II but is prevalent today. Review Gideon's time in the Book of Judges and what the Angel of the Lord told him. Here is a link to the article that Dr. Dean referenced at the beginning of the lesson. If you'd like to view the inscriptions (translated) in the Dome on the Rock, you can view them here. Click to find the book Dr. Dean mentioned, Christianity & Liberalism by J. Gresham Machen.

How is Gideon similar to Moses in his reaction to being commissioned by God for service? Listen to this lesson to hear about these similarities and to learn the stages Gideon had to go through as he learned to trust God. See what God means when He says, “I am with you” and what those words are designed to teach us. Find out what Gideon's core problem was and avoid it in your own life by believing in the sufficiency of God for every problem you may encounter.

In Judges the Angel of the Lord appears to Gideon. Do you know who the Angel of the Lord is? Join this review of the fascinating subject that appears numerous times throughout Scripture. See the many passages that show that this is not an angel, but is actually deity. Find out which member of the Trinity it is and ways the Word of God reveals this to us. End Bible class with an update from Mark Perkins, a missionary to Tahiti, as he details the work going on there, including ongoing work on a new translation of the Bible from the Greek and Hebrew to Tahitian.

The Israelites are hiding in caves, watching helplessly as the Midianites are stealing their crops, which will leave them starving. Why was God allowing this, they wondered. Listen to this message to see that they were going through cycles of divine discipline which God had warned them about if they continued disobeying Him. Hear a detailed study of who the Angel of the Lord is in Scripture as one appears to Gideon. Understand that God's grace was at work setting up things to deliver them just as His grace helps us in our lives.

Why are four chapters in the Bible devoted to this man named Gideon and his role in delivering Israel? Listen to this lesson to hear an overview of a time when Israel was being disciplined by God allowing the Midianites to oppress them in terrible ways. Hear about the appearance of a prophet who indicts them and then the Angel of the Lord offers a way of deliverance. Let this message challenge you to always remember that the battles we face will be won by God when we trust Him.

What causes people and nations to try to destroy the nation of Israel throughout history? Listen to this lesson to continue to study the background for the days when Gideon became a judge. See the prayer in Psalm 83 where ill will is wished on those who hate God and His chosen people. Hear a discussion of Thomas Sowell and his two opposing worldviews, one of which believes that man is capable of becoming free of evil through circumstances and education and the other which is biblically based. During this message Dr. Dean discusses concepts from Dr. Thomas Sowell's Conflict of Visions book. He also mentioned an article published In Imprimus from Hillsdale College regarding Dr. Sowell..