Judges lesson 5 Chapters 6-8

                                                     

                                                     

                                               

Lbs Judges 6-8 Lesson 5

                                                      Self-Doubt and Success

Last week we saw in Deborah perhaps the most faithful example of leadership in the entire book of Judges. But though she mothered Israel with strength and integrity, they once again returned to idolatry as quickly as her memory faded.

This week God calls a man named Gideon to deliver Israel from her sin. Don't forget to continue to fill out your "Judges Chart". 

As you begin to read about Gideon and the judges who will follow him, at times it will be difficult to tell whether their actions are righteous or unrighteous. Ask yourself, is the judge growing in godliness or increasingly indulging his own inclinations or sense of personal justice? 

Read Judges 6-8.

1. Summarize each chapter in 1 or 2 sentences. 

Focus on 6:1-6

2. How bad was the oppression suffered at the hands of Midian? What kinds of suffering do the details given in 6:1-6 indicate?

3. In 6:11-12 we first meet Gideon. If he is threshing wheat, why do you think he is in the winepress? 

4.How did the angel of the Lord describe Gideon?

Now focus on chapter 7.

5. Why do you think God reduces the number of men so dramatically?(7:2)

6.How does God remedy Gideon's fear? (7:12-18)

7. Of all the miraculous assurances Gideon has received, why do you think this one give him the courage he needs to act?

8. Apply: Has there ever been a time when God has dramatically weakened you (physically, financially, emotionally, etc) to teach you to rely on Him? Describe that time That did you learn about God? About yourself? About your fears?

 Focus on Judges Chapter 8.

9. As Gideon pursues the Midianite kings Zebah and Zalmunnah, what two Israelite towns refuse to offer aid to his men? (8:4-9)_______________    __________________

10. Wanting to fully humiliate the killers of his brothers, Gideon commands his young son Jather to slay Zebah and Zalmunnah. When he does not do so, Gideon kills them himself (8:19-20). does this scene show Gideon behaving justly or vengfully? 

11. Apply: Which is more likely to be spiritually dangerous: success or failure? Why? If you can, give a personal example to support your answer. 

12. How can we better "remember the Lord out God" (8:34) in both outcomes?

What aspect of God's character has this week's passage of Judges shown more clearly? 

What one step can you take this week to better live in light of this truth?