“Raising the Next Generation - Introduction to the Book of Judges”
SERMON Title: Raising the Next Generation - Introduction to the Book of Judges
SCRIPTURE: Judges 2:6-23 ESV
Introduction
The Book of Judges recounts one of the darkest periods in Israel’s history—a time marked by lawlessness, rebellion, and moral failure. The overarching attitude of the people is captured in Judges 17:6 and 21:25:
"In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did that which was right in his own eyes."
This was a time when the Israelites had settled in the Promised Land. While the wilderness trials were behind them, they lacked a leader to guide them spiritually and morally. After Joshua's passing, the people began to drift from God's commands, seeking to satisfy their own desires instead of living in obedience.
However, when we examine Israel’s history, we see how God faithfully and graciously led them. In the Book of Exodus, God delivered the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, not only to free them but to establish a deep and abiding relationship with His people. His purpose wasn’t merely to bring them to the Promised Land but to shape their hearts to trust and love Him.
God used their 40-year wilderness journey to teach them dependence on Him, showing that His presence and provision were greater than any earthly blessing. Eventually, He brought them safely into the Promised Land—a land meant to reflect His promise and faithfulness.
The Problem in the Land
When the Israelites entered Canaan, they faced a challenge: the land was inhabited by strong opponents. God promised to help them conquer these enemies, but this promise was conditional—Israel was required to walk with Him in holiness.
God’s instructions in Deuteronomy 7:1-6 were clear:
Possess the land.
Utterly destroy the nations of Canaan.
Make no peace treaties with them.
Show them no mercy.
Avoid intermarriage with the Canaanites.
Destroy all traces of their pagan religions.
The reason for such radical separation was that Israel was called to be a holy nation, set apart to reflect God's character and declare His glory to the nations. God wanted to protect their spiritual legacy, ensuring the next generation would remain faithful. He knew that if they allowed the Canaanites to remain, their idolatrous practices would corrupt Israel’s faith and lead future generations away from God.
Israel's Failure
Despite God’s commands, the Israelites failed to fully obey Him. Judges 1:19-34 recounts the failures of the tribes:
Nine tribes (Judah, Benjamin, Manasseh, Ephraim, Zebulun, Asher, Naphtali, Dan, and Joseph) failed to drive out the Canaanites completely.
Three tribes (Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh) refused to enter Canaan altogether.
Instead of eradicating the Canaanite influence, they allowed these nations to live among them, adopting their idolatrous ways. Judges 2:11-12 records the tragic consequences:
"The people of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the Lord and served the Baals. They abandoned the Lord, the God of their fathers, who had brought them out of the land of Egypt."
This disobedience led to spiritual compromise and generational corruption.
Consequences of Disobedience
Israel’s failure to follow God’s commands had long-term consequences:
Exposure to Idolatry:
The Canaanites’ pagan practices became a stumbling block for Israel, enticing them to worship false gods.Loss of Knowledge of God:
Judges 2:10 notes that a generation arose who neither knew the Lord nor remembered His mighty works.Corruption of Identity:
Instead of remaining distinct as God's holy people, Israel adopted the practices of their neighbors.Cycles of Decline and Judgment:
Israel fell into repeated cycles of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. Each time, their disobedience caused greater distance from God.
God's Deliverance
Despite Israel’s failures, God remained faithful. When they cried out in repentance, He raised up judges—men and women who acted as deliverers. While these judges were flawed, God used them to save His people. Yet, the cycle of disobedience continued, highlighting humanity’s need for a greater Deliverer.
Application for Today
Israel's story is a warning but also a call to action:
Prepare the Next Generation:
Just as a generation in Judges grew up without knowing the Lord, we face similar risks today. Churches must intentionally disciple children and youth, equipping them to stand firm in faith. At New Hope Fellowship, this is why we are revitalizing ministries like HopeKids, not just to entertain but to nurture disciples of Jesus.Break the Cycle:
Israel’s failure to prioritize God led to compromise and idolatry. In our homes and churches, we must cultivate habits of scripture reading, prayer, and worship. Let’s model a faith that prioritizes holiness over comfort.Answer God’s Call:
Like the judges, God calls ordinary people to do extraordinary things. You may feel unqualified, but God equips the obedient. Step into the role He has for you in discipling others or serving in ministry.
The Book of Judges reminds us of the devastating consequences of spiritual complacency but also of God’s relentless grace. As we study this book in the coming weeks, may we take seriously the call to prepare the next generation, break cycles of sin, and live as a holy people devoted to God.
Let’s trust that, just as He was faithful to Israel, God will guide us as we seek to raise a generation that knows Him and proclaims His glory.
Reflection and Response
As we conclude today’s message, let’s take a moment to reflect on the lessons we’ve explored. The book of Judges reveals the dangers of forgetting God and the hope found in His deliverance. We’ve seen how God uses ordinary people to achieve extraordinary purposes and calls each of us to prepare the next generation, break destructive cycles, and answer His call. Take time this week to reflect on these questions:
- Where is God calling you to step out in faith?
- Are there cycles in your life that need breaking, and how can you prioritize God and His commands in your daily rhythms?
- How might you invest in the next generation, whether it be children of our church or newer believers in the church, ensuring they grow to know and love the Lord?
As we move forward, let’s carry the lessons of today with hearts ready to act. God is still writing His story through each of us, calling us to be vessels of His grace and truth. May we approach the stories of the Judges in the coming weeks with a sense of purpose, a willingness to be challenged, and an openness to how God might use us for His glory.