Judges and Ruth

The Book of Judges is an important link in the history of Israel, between the early Theocracy and the kings. The rule was in the hands of the judges - Othniel, Ehud, Shamgar, Deborah, Barak, Gideon, Abimelech, Jephthah, Samson. The period was one of increasing sin and declension, yet it was also marked by the continued patience of God, who repeatedly came to their aid. The moral principles involved are of the widest application to all who are in responsible relationship to God. The lessons of declension and recovery are of immense practical importance to the Church of Christ. In contrast to the darkness of Judges is the lovely Book of Ruth. Historically the link between the judges and the kings, it pictures family life and customs in ancient Palestine. It traces the widowed Moabitess, Ruth, into a new faith, a new land, and a new marriage, which made her an ancestress of King David, and eventually of Jesus Himself. Its story of faith, loyalty, and love reveals God’s sovereign working through the "all things" of life’s joys and tragedies.