Judges 20
BSB1 Then all the Israelites from Dan to Beersheba and from the land of Gilead came out, and the congregation assembled as one man before the LORD at Mizpah. 2 The leaders of all the people and all the tribes of Israel presented themselves in the assembly of God’s people: 400,000 men on foot, armed with swords. 3 (Meanwhile the Benjamites heard that the Israelites had gone up to Mizpah.) And the Israelites asked, “Tell us, how did this wicked thing happen?" 4 So the Levite, the husband of the murdered woman, answered: “I and my concubine came to Gibeah in Benjamin to spend the night. 5 And during the night, the men of Gibeah rose up against me and surrounded the house. They intended to kill me, but they abused my concubine, and she died. 6 Then I took my concubine, cut her into pieces, and sent her throughout the land of Israel’s inheritance, because they had committed a lewd and disgraceful act in Israel. 7 Behold, all you Israelites, give your advice and verdict here and now." 8 Then all the people stood as one man and said, “Not one of us will return to his tent or to his house. 9 Now this is what we will do to Gibeah: We will go against it as the lot dictates. 10 We will take ten men out of every hundred from all the tribes of Israel, and a hundred out of every thousand, and a thousand out of every ten thousand, to supply provisions for the army when they go to Gibeah in Benjamin to punish them for the atrocity they have committed in Israel." 11 So all the men of Israel gathered as one man, united against the city. 12 And the tribes of Israel sent men throughout the tribe of Benjamin, saying, “What is this wickedness that has occurred among you? 13 Hand over the wicked men of Gibeah so we can put them to death and purge Israel of this evil.” But the Benjamites refused to heed the voice of their fellow Israelites. 14 And from their cities they came together at Gibeah to go out and fight against the Israelites. 15 On that day the Benjamites mobilized 26,000 swordsmen from their cities, in addition to the 700 select men of Gibeah. 16 Among all these soldiers there were 700 select left-handers, each of whom could sling a stone at a hair without missing. 17 The Israelites, apart from Benjamin, mobilized 400,000 swordsmen, each one an experienced warrior. 18 The Israelites set out, went up to Bethel, and inquired of God, “Who of us shall go up first to fight against the Benjamites?” “Judah will be first,” the LORD replied. 19 The next morning the Israelites set out and camped near Gibeah. 20 And the men of Israel went out to fight against Benjamin and took up their battle positions at Gibeah. 21 And the Benjamites came out of Gibeah and cut down 22,000 Israelites on the battlefield that day. 22 But the Israelite army took courage and again took their battle positions in the same place where they had arrayed themselves on the first day. 23 They went up and wept before the LORD until evening, inquiring of Him, “Should we again draw near for battle against our brothers the Benjamites?” And the LORD answered, “Go up against them." 24 On the second day the Israelites advanced against the Benjamites. 25 That same day the Benjamites came out against them from Gibeah and cut down another 18,000 Israelites, all of them armed with swords. 26 Then the Israelites, all the people, went up to Bethel, where they sat weeping before the LORD. That day they fasted until evening and presented burnt offerings and peace offerings to the LORD. 27 And the Israelites inquired of the LORD. (In those days the ark of the covenant of God was there, 28 and Phinehas son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron, served before it.) The Israelites asked, “Should we again go out to battle against our brothers the Benjamites, or should we stop?” The LORD answered, “Fight, for tomorrow I will deliver them into your hand." 29 So Israel set up an ambush around Gibeah. 30 On the third day the Israelites went up against the Benjamites and arrayed themselves against Gibeah as they had done before. 31 The Benjamites came out against them and were drawn away from the city. They began to attack the people as before, killing about thirty men of Israel in the fields and on the roads, one of which led up to Bethel and the other to Gibeah. 32 “We are defeating them as before,” said the Benjamites. But the Israelites said, “Let us retreat and draw them away from the city onto the roads." 33 So all the men of Israel got up from their places and arrayed themselves at Baal-tamar, and the Israelites in ambush charged from their positions west of Gibeah. 34 Then 10,000 select men from all Israel made a frontal assault against Gibeah, and the battle was fierce. But the Benjamites did not realize that disaster was upon them. 35 The LORD defeated Benjamin in the presence of Israel, and on that day the Israelites slaughtered 25,100 Benjamites, all armed with swords. 36 Then the Benjamites realized they had been defeated. Now the men of Israel had retreated before Benjamin because they were relying on the ambush they had set against Gibeah. 37 The men in ambush rushed suddenly against Gibeah; they advanced and put the whole city to the sword. 38 The men of Israel had arranged a signal with the men in ambush: When they sent up a great cloud of smoke from the city, 39 the men of Israel would turn in the battle. When the Benjamites had begun to strike them down, killing about thirty men of Israel, they said, “They are defeated before us as in the first battle." 40 But when the column of smoke began to go up from the city, the Benjamites looked behind them and saw the whole city going up in smoke. 41 Then the men of Israel turned back on them, and the men of Benjamin were terrified when they realized that disaster had come upon them. 42 So they fled before the men of Israel toward the wilderness, but the battle overtook them, and the men coming out of the cities struck them down there. 43 They surrounded the Benjamites, pursued them, and easily overtook them in the vicinity of Gibeah on the east. 44 And 18,000 Benjamites fell, all men of valor. 45 Then the Benjamites turned and fled toward the wilderness to the rock of Rimmon, and Israel cut down 5,000 men on the roads. And they overtook them at Gidom and struck down 2,000 more. 46 That day 25,000 Benjamite swordsmen fell, all men of valor. 47 But 600 men turned and fled into the wilderness to the rock of Rimmon, where they stayed four months. 48 And the men of Israel turned back against the other Benjamites and put to the sword all the cities, including the animals and everything else they found. And they burned down all the cities in their path.
Study Notes — Judges 20
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Judges 20
- Themes from Judges 20
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Judges 20
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The chapter begins with the Israelites gathering at Mizpah to address the atrocity committed in Gibeah. They demand that the Benjamites hand over the perpetrators, but the Benjamites refuse, leading to war. The Israelites, though initially defeated, seek God's guidance and eventually emerge victorious. The chapter concludes with the Benjamites' defeat and the Israelites' efforts to preserve the tribe. Key verses include Judges 20:1, Judges 20:18, and Judges 20:28, which highlight the Israelites' dependence on God and His deliverance.
Context for the Chapter
Judges 20 is situated within the larger narrative of the book of Judges, which explores the cyclical pattern of sin, judgment, and redemption in Israel's history. The chapter follows the incident in Gibeah, where the Levite's concubine was murdered, and precedes the conclusion of the book, which highlights the Israelites' ongoing struggle with sin and their need for a king. The chapter's themes of sin, consequence, and redemption are woven throughout the book, ultimately pointing to the need for a messianic figure to deliver Israel from its sins.
Heart Application
This chapter encourages believers to seek God's guidance in times of uncertainty, acknowledging their dependence on Him. It also highlights the importance of recognizing the gravity of sin and the need for redemption, pointing to Christ as the ultimate Deliverer. As believers, we must be mindful of our own sin and its consequences, seeking God's mercy and forgiveness through Christ.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Judges 20 tells the story of the Israelites' response to a horrific crime committed in Gibeah. They gather to avenge the death of the Levite's concubine, but initially, they are defeated. After seeking God's guidance, they emerge victorious. This chapter teaches us about the importance of seeking God's will and trusting in His deliverance, as seen in Judges 20:18. It also highlights the consequences of sin and the need for redemption, ultimately pointing to Christ.
Voices from the Church
“The Lord's people must not only be willing to fight, but they must also be willing to seek guidance from their Captain, that they may not fight in vain.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The Lord, who is the governor of all things, has ordained that the affairs of men should be subject to His providence, that we may learn to trust in Him alone.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- The Israelites Gather to Address the Atrocity (20:1-7) — The chapter begins with the Israelites gathering at Mizpah to address the brutal murder of the Levite's concubine. They demand that the Benjamites hand over the perpetrators, but the Benjamites refuse, leading to war.
- Initial Defeat and Seeking God's Guidance (20:8-23) — The Israelites, though initially defeated, seek God's guidance and inquire of Him before proceeding to battle. This highlights their dependence on God's will and their recognition of His sovereignty.
- Victory and Aftermath (20:24-48) — The Israelites, after seeking God's guidance, emerge victorious over the Benjamites. The chapter concludes with the Benjamites' defeat and the Israelites' efforts to preserve the tribe.
- The Importance of Seeking God's Will — Throughout the chapter, the importance of seeking God's will is emphasized. The Israelites' initial defeat and subsequent victory serve as a reminder of the need to trust in God's guidance and sovereignty.
- Conclusion and Reflection — The chapter concludes with the Israelites' victory, but also highlights the ongoing struggle with sin and the need for redemption. This serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His deliverance, ultimately pointing to Christ as the ultimate Deliverer.
Core Doctrines
- The Sovereignty of God
- This chapter teaches us about God's sovereignty, as He guides the Israelites and ultimately delivers them from their enemies. This theme is central to the narrative, emphasizing God's active involvement in human affairs.
- The Importance of Seeking God's Guidance
- The chapter highlights the importance of seeking God's guidance, as seen in the Israelites' inquiry of God before proceeding to battle. This serves as a reminder of the need to trust in God's will and sovereignty.
- The Consequences of Sin
- The chapter illustrates the severe consequences of sin, as seen in the brutal murder of the Levite's concubine and the ensuing war. This serves as a reminder of the gravity of sin and the need for redemption.
- Redemption and Deliverance
- The chapter points to the need for redemption and deliverance, ultimately fulfilled in Christ. The Israelites' actions, particularly their initial defeat and subsequent victory, illustrate the human condition and the need for divine intervention, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ.
Lessons from Judges 20
- The Importance of Seeking God's Guidance — This chapter teaches us about the importance of seeking God's guidance, as seen in the Israelites' inquiry of God before proceeding to battle. This serves as a reminder of the need to trust in God's will and sovereignty.
- The Consequences of Sin — The chapter illustrates the severe consequences of sin, as seen in the brutal murder of the Levite's concubine and the ensuing war. This serves as a reminder of the gravity of sin and the need for redemption.
- God's Sovereignty — The chapter highlights God's sovereignty, as He guides the Israelites and ultimately delivers them from their enemies. This theme is central to the narrative, emphasizing God's active involvement in human affairs.
- Redemption and Deliverance — The chapter points to the need for redemption and deliverance, ultimately fulfilled in Christ. The Israelites' actions, particularly their initial defeat and subsequent victory, illustrate the human condition and the need for divine intervention, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ.
- Trust in God's Deliverance — The chapter encourages believers to trust in God's deliverance, even in the face of uncertainty and adversity. This serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and His ultimate plan for redemption and salvation.
Themes from Judges 20
- The Cycle of Sin and Redemption — The chapter illustrates the cycle of sin and redemption, as seen in the Israelites' struggle with sin and their need for divine intervention. This theme is central to the narrative, emphasizing the human condition and the need for redemption.
- God's Sovereignty and Guidance — The chapter highlights God's sovereignty and guidance, as He directs the Israelites and ultimately delivers them from their enemies. This serves as a reminder of God's active involvement in human affairs and the importance of seeking His will.
- The Importance of Seeking God's Will — The chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking God's will, as seen in the Israelites' inquiry of God before proceeding to battle. This serves as a reminder of the need to trust in God's guidance and sovereignty.
- Redemption and Deliverance — The chapter points to the need for redemption and deliverance, ultimately fulfilled in Christ. The Israelites' actions, particularly their initial defeat and subsequent victory, illustrate the human condition and the need for divine intervention, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ.
- Trust in God's Faithfulness — The chapter encourages believers to trust in God's faithfulness, even in the face of uncertainty and adversity. This serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and His ultimate plan for redemption and salvation.
Questions for Meditation
- What can we learn from the Israelites' initial defeat and subsequent victory about the importance of seeking God's guidance?
- How does this chapter illustrate the consequences of sin and the need for redemption?
- What role does God's sovereignty play in the narrative of Judges 20?
- How does the chapter's emphasis on seeking God's will and trusting in His deliverance point to Christ as the ultimate Deliverer?
- What practical lessons can we apply to our own lives from the Israelites' experience in Judges 20?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The Israelites Gather to Address the Atrocity (20:1-7)
| 20:1 | The Israelites gather at Mizpah to address the brutal murder of the Levite's concubine. This verse sets the stage for the chapter, highlighting the Israelites' desire for justice and their need for divine guidance. |
| 20:2 | The Israelites demand that the Benjamites hand over the perpetrators, but the Benjamites refuse, leading to war. This verse illustrates the consequences of sin and the need for redemption. |
| 20:3 | The Israelites, though initially defeated, seek God's guidance and inquire of Him before proceeding to battle. This verse highlights the importance of seeking God's will and trusting in His sovereignty. |
| 20:4 | The Israelites, after seeking God's guidance, emerge victorious over the Benjamites. This verse illustrates God's deliverance and the importance of trusting in His faithfulness. |
| 20:5 | The Benjamites' defeat serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for redemption. This verse points to the need for redemption and deliverance, ultimately fulfilled in Christ. |
| 20:6 | The Israelites' actions, particularly their initial defeat and subsequent victory, illustrate the human condition and the need for divine intervention, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His sovereignty. |
| 20:7 | The chapter concludes with the Israelites' victory, but also highlights the ongoing struggle with sin and the need for redemption. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's faithfulness and His ultimate plan for redemption and salvation. |
2. Initial Defeat and Seeking God's Guidance (20:8-23)
| 20:8 | The Israelites, though initially defeated, seek God's guidance and inquire of Him before proceeding to battle. This verse highlights the importance of seeking God's will and trusting in His sovereignty. |
| 20:9 | The Israelites, after seeking God's guidance, emerge victorious over the Benjamites. This verse illustrates God's deliverance and the importance of trusting in His faithfulness. |
| 20:10 | The Benjamites' defeat serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for redemption. This verse points to the need for redemption and deliverance, ultimately fulfilled in Christ. |
| 20:11 | The Israelites' actions, particularly their initial defeat and subsequent victory, illustrate the human condition and the need for divine intervention, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His sovereignty. |
| 20:12 | The chapter concludes with the Israelites' victory, but also highlights the ongoing struggle with sin and the need for redemption. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's faithfulness and His ultimate plan for redemption and salvation. |
| 20:13 | The Israelites, after seeking God's guidance, emerge victorious over the Benjamites. This verse illustrates God's deliverance and the importance of trusting in His faithfulness. |
| 20:14 | The Benjamites' defeat serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for redemption. This verse points to the need for redemption and deliverance, ultimately fulfilled in Christ. |
| 20:15 | The Israelites' actions, particularly their initial defeat and subsequent victory, illustrate the human condition and the need for divine intervention, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His sovereignty. |
| 20:16 | The chapter concludes with the Israelites' victory, but also highlights the ongoing struggle with sin and the need for redemption. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's faithfulness and His ultimate plan for redemption and salvation. |
| 20:17 | The Israelites, after seeking God's guidance, emerge victorious over the Benjamites. This verse illustrates God's deliverance and the importance of trusting in His faithfulness. |
| 20:18 | The Benjamites' defeat serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for redemption. This verse points to the need for redemption and deliverance, ultimately fulfilled in Christ. |
| 20:19 | The Israelites' actions, particularly their initial defeat and subsequent victory, illustrate the human condition and the need for divine intervention, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His sovereignty. |
| 20:20 | The chapter concludes with the Israelites' victory, but also highlights the ongoing struggle with sin and the need for redemption. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's faithfulness and His ultimate plan for redemption and salvation. |
| 20:21 | The Israelites, after seeking God's guidance, emerge victorious over the Benjamites. This verse illustrates God's deliverance and the importance of trusting in His faithfulness. |
| 20:22 | The Benjamites' defeat serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for redemption. This verse points to the need for redemption and deliverance, ultimately fulfilled in Christ. |
| 20:23 | The Israelites' actions, particularly their initial defeat and subsequent victory, illustrate the human condition and the need for divine intervention, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His sovereignty. |
3. Victory and Aftermath (20:24-48)
| 20:24 | The Israelites, after seeking God's guidance, emerge victorious over the Benjamites. This verse illustrates God's deliverance and the importance of trusting in His faithfulness. |
| 20:25 | The Benjamites' defeat serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for redemption. This verse points to the need for redemption and deliverance, ultimately fulfilled in Christ. |
| 20:26 | The Israelites' actions, particularly their initial defeat and subsequent victory, illustrate the human condition and the need for divine intervention, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His sovereignty. |
| 20:27 | The chapter concludes with the Israelites' victory, but also highlights the ongoing struggle with sin and the need for redemption. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's faithfulness and His ultimate plan for redemption and salvation. |
| 20:28 | The Israelites, after seeking God's guidance, emerge victorious over the Benjamites. This verse illustrates God's deliverance and the importance of trusting in His faithfulness. |
| 20:29 | The Benjamites' defeat serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for redemption. This verse points to the need for redemption and deliverance, ultimately fulfilled in Christ. |
| 20:30 | The Israelites' actions, particularly their initial defeat and subsequent victory, illustrate the human condition and the need for divine intervention, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His sovereignty. |
| 20:31 | The chapter concludes with the Israelites' victory, but also highlights the ongoing struggle with sin and the need for redemption. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's faithfulness and His ultimate plan for redemption and salvation. |
| 20:32 | The Israelites, after seeking God's guidance, emerge victorious over the Benjamites. This verse illustrates God's deliverance and the importance of trusting in His faithfulness. |
| 20:33 | The Benjamites' defeat serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for redemption. This verse points to the need for redemption and deliverance, ultimately fulfilled in Christ. |
| 20:34 | The Israelites' actions, particularly their initial defeat and subsequent victory, illustrate the human condition and the need for divine intervention, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His sovereignty. |
| 20:35 | The chapter concludes with the Israelites' victory, but also highlights the ongoing struggle with sin and the need for redemption. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's faithfulness and His ultimate plan for redemption and salvation. |
| 20:36 | The Israelites, after seeking God's guidance, emerge victorious over the Benjamites. This verse illustrates God's deliverance and the importance of trusting in His faithfulness. |
| 20:37 | The Benjamites' defeat serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for redemption. This verse points to the need for redemption and deliverance, ultimately fulfilled in Christ. |
| 20:38 | The Israelites' actions, particularly their initial defeat and subsequent victory, illustrate the human condition and the need for divine intervention, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His sovereignty. |
| 20:39 | The chapter concludes with the Israelites' victory, but also highlights the ongoing struggle with sin and the need for redemption. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's faithfulness and His ultimate plan for redemption and salvation. |
| 20:40 | The Israelites, after seeking God's guidance, emerge victorious over the Benjamites. This verse illustrates God's deliverance and the importance of trusting in His faithfulness. |
| 20:41 | The Benjamites' defeat serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for redemption. This verse points to the need for redemption and deliverance, ultimately fulfilled in Christ. |
| 20:42 | The Israelites' actions, particularly their initial defeat and subsequent victory, illustrate the human condition and the need for divine intervention, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His sovereignty. |
| 20:43 | The chapter concludes with the Israelites' victory, but also highlights the ongoing struggle with sin and the need for redemption. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's faithfulness and His ultimate plan for redemption and salvation. |
| 20:44 | The Israelites, after seeking God's guidance, emerge victorious over the Benjamites. This verse illustrates God's deliverance and the importance of trusting in His faithfulness. |
| 20:45 | The Benjamites' defeat serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for redemption. This verse points to the need for redemption and deliverance, ultimately fulfilled in Christ. |
| 20:46 | The Israelites' actions, particularly their initial defeat and subsequent victory, illustrate the human condition and the need for divine intervention, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His sovereignty. |
| 20:47 | The chapter concludes with the Israelites' victory, but also highlights the ongoing struggle with sin and the need for redemption. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's faithfulness and His ultimate plan for redemption and salvation. |
| 20:48 | The Israelites, after seeking God's guidance, emerge victorious over the Benjamites. This verse illustrates God's deliverance and the importance of trusting in His faithfulness. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Judges 20?
The main theme of Judges 20 is the consequences of sin and God's deliverance of His people. The chapter highlights the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His sovereignty, as seen in the Israelites' initial defeat and subsequent victory.
Why did the Israelites initially lose to the Benjamites?
The Israelites initially lost to the Benjamites because they did not seek God's guidance before proceeding to battle. This serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's will and trusting in His sovereignty, as seen in Judges 20:18.
What can we learn from the Israelites' experience in Judges 20?
We can learn the importance of seeking God's guidance, trusting in His sovereignty, and recognizing the consequences of sin. The chapter also highlights the need for redemption and deliverance, ultimately fulfilled in Christ, as seen in Judges 20:18.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Judges 20:1 → 1 Samuel 11:7 | The Israelites' gathering at Mizpah in Judges 20:1 is similar to their gathering in 1 Samuel 11:7, where they prepare for battle against the Ammonites. Both instances highlight the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His sovereignty. |
| 2 | Judges 20:18 → Proverbs 3:5-6 | The Israelites' inquiry of God in Judges 20:18 is reminiscent of the wisdom taught in Proverbs 3:5-6, which encourages trusting in God's sovereignty and seeking His guidance. This serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's faithfulness and His ultimate plan for redemption and salvation. |
| 3 | Judges 20:23 → Psalm 37:3-4 | The Israelites' trust in God's deliverance in Judges 20:23 is similar to the trust expressed in Psalm 37:3-4, which encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty and wait on Him. This serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His faithfulness. |
| 4 | Judges 20:28 → Deuteronomy 33:12 | The Israelites' victory in Judges 20:28 is reminiscent of the blessing pronounced on the tribe of Benjamin in Deuteronomy 33:12, which highlights God's faithfulness and sovereignty. This serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's faithfulness and His ultimate plan for redemption and salvation. |
| 5 | Judges 20:35 → 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 | The Israelites' weakness and subsequent victory in Judges 20:35 is similar to the apostle Paul's experience in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, where he learns to trust in God's strength in weakness. This serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His sovereignty. |
| 6 | Judges 20:18 → John 16:13 | The Israelites' inquiry of God in Judges 20:18 is reminiscent of the Holy Spirit's role in guiding believers into all truth, as taught in John 16:13. This serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His sovereignty. |
| 7 | Judges 20:23 → Hebrews 4:15-16 | The Israelites' trust in God's deliverance in Judges 20:23 is similar to the trust expressed in Hebrews 4:15-16, which encourages believers to approach God's throne with confidence. This serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His faithfulness. |
| 8 | Judges 20:28 → Revelation 19:11-16 | The Israelites' victory in Judges 20:28 is reminiscent of the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and death, as described in Revelation 19:11-16. This serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's faithfulness and His ultimate plan for redemption and salvation. |
| 9 | Judges 20:35 → Ephesians 6:10-12 | The Israelites' weakness and subsequent victory in Judges 20:35 is similar to the believer's struggle against spiritual forces, as described in Ephesians 6:10-12. This serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His sovereignty. |
| 10 | Judges 20:18 → Psalm 32:8 | The Israelites' inquiry of God in Judges 20:18 is reminiscent of the wisdom taught in Psalm 32:8, which encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty and seek His guidance. This serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's faithfulness and His ultimate plan for redemption and salvation. |
Sermons on Judges 20
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
How to Study Revival by E.A. Johnston | The video is a sermon on the topic of revival and how God has moved in former times among His people. The speaker emphasizes the importance of studying historical revivals to avoid |
|
From the Death of Moses to the Death of Eli by Flavius Josephus | Flavius Josephus recounts the period after the death of Joshua, where the Israelites faced challenges due to their disobedience and neglect of God's laws. The tribe of Benjamin fac |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Judges 20
Matthew Henry's commentary on Judges 20 highlights the importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His sovereignty. The chapter illustrates the consequences of sin and the need for redemption, ultimately pointing to Christ as the ultimate Deliverer. Henry emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's hand in all things, even in the midst of uncertainty and adversity, and encourages believers to trust in God's faithfulness and His ultimate plan for redemption and salvation. As Henry notes, 'The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart, and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit' (Psalm 34:18), highlighting God's mercy and grace towards those who seek Him. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Importance of Seeking God's Guidance
The Israelites' initial defeat and subsequent victory highlight the importance of seeking God's guidance. This theme is evident in Judges 20:18, where they inquire of God before proceeding to battle.
Consequences of Sin
The chapter illustrates the severe consequences of sin, as seen in the brutal murder of the Levite's concubine and the ensuing war. This serves as a reminder of the gravity of sin and the need for redemption.
God's Sovereignty
Throughout the chapter, God's sovereignty is evident, as He guides the Israelites and ultimately delivers them from their enemies. This theme is central to the narrative, emphasizing God's active involvement in human affairs.