Discovering the Nature of God in the Book of Judges: A Practical Guide

The Book of Judges is a fascinating and challenging part of the Bible. It covers a period of Israel’s history when they were ruled by a series of judges, who were raised up by God to deliver them from their enemies and restore them to covenant obedience. In this book, we can see how God’s character is displayed in various ways, even in the midst of Israel’s repeated failures and sins. In this article, we will explore some of the attributes and characteristics of God that are revealed in the Book of Judges, and how they can help us understand the nature of God and His relationship with His people.

Some of the attributes and characteristics of God that we can observe in the Book of Judges are:

• God’s faithfulness: God keeps His promises and remains loyal to His covenant with Israel, even when they are unfaithful and disobedient to Him. He rescues them from their oppressors, provides them with leaders and judges, and gives them rest in the land. He does not abandon them or reject them, but continues to work out His plan of salvation for them and the world. (Judg. 2:1-23; 8:22-23; 10:15-16; 21:25)
• God’s anger: God is holy and righteous, and He hates sin and idolatry. He is also jealous for His glory and His people’s devotion. He expresses His wrath and displeasure against Israel’s rebellion and apostasy, and allows them to suffer the consequences of their actions. He also judges and punishes their enemies, who oppress and afflict them. He does not tolerate evil or injustice, but executes His justice and vengeance. (Judg. 2:11-15; 3:7-8; 6:1; 10:6-9; 15:11; 16:28-30)
• God’s mercy: God is compassionate and gracious, and He relents from His anger and shows kindness and forgiveness to His people. He hears their cries and responds to their repentance. He raises up deliverers and saviors for them, who act as His instruments of salvation. He also gives them opportunities and means to return to Him and renew their covenant. He does not treat them as their sins deserve, but remembers His covenant and His love for them. (Judg. 2:16-18; 3:9; 6:7-10; 10:10-18; 13:1-5; 16:22-31)

These are just some of the aspects of God’s character that we can learn from the Book of Judges. As we read and study this book, we can appreciate the nature of God and His dealings with His people, and how they point us to the ultimate Judge and Savior, Jesus Christ, who perfectly reveals God’s character and fulfills God’s plan.