PODCAST
Leadership and Honor
November 10th, 2015
Judges 19:1-13
The book of Judges recounts Israel’s downward spiral into wickedness. The last judge mentioned in the book is Samson, and his story ends with chapter 16. Beginning in chapter 17, foreboding words are repeated four times in the final five chapters: “In those days Israel had no king” (17:6; 18:1; 19:1; 21:25). In the first and last instances are added the words, “Everyone did as they saw fit.”
In Israel, kings were to administer the righteousness and justice of God. In yesterday’s passage, Abraham demonstrated his understanding of God as a righteousness Judge. Yet the accounts from the final chapters of Judges indicate that righteousness and justice were in exceedingly short supply. Together these chapters drive home some important truths.
When God is honored, people are valued and respected. When God is dishonored, people are dehumanized and used. Godly leadership at any level will lead the way in honoring God and respecting people.
Author: Rhonda Carrim
