“The Battle of Deborah and Barak”
SERMON Title: The Battle of Debora and Barak
SCRIPTURE: Judges 4 ESV
Introduction
Today, as we dive into Judges 4, we encounter another battle narrative, this time between the Canaanites and the tribes of Israel. But unlike the straightforward stories of the previous judges, this narrative is far more dynamic and involves several people rather than just one judge. It’s not a simple story where God raises a judge, and that judge delivers the people. Instead, multiple characters are involved, making the story more complex.
As we go through the text verse by verse, we’ll look at what actually happened in this story and what the Lord is revealing to us through it. I won’t focus on the symbolism but will stick to the events as they unfold, beginning with the setting of the narrative.
1. Setting of the Narrative (v.1-3)
The story takes place after Ehud’s death, when Israel once again did what was evil in God’s eyes. With Ehud, the left-handed judge, gone, Israel fell back into their sinful ways. So, in response, God handed them over to Jabin, the king of Canaan. Jabin ruled from Hazor, and his commander, Sisera, was based in Harosheth Haggoyim. Although we don’t know why Sisera’s base was located away from the king, it’s clear that his army was strategically positioned. The 900 iron chariots he commanded would need flat terrain to be effective, and that’s exactly what Harosheth Haggoyim offered. For 20 years, Sisera oppressed Israel cruelly, until they cried out to God for deliverance.
Deborah and Barak
In response to their cries, God raised up two leaders: Deborah, a prophetess, and Barak, a military leader. Deborah, a spiritual and social leader, was known for her wisdom and judgment. She lived between Ramah and Bethel, where the people of Israel came to her for guidance (v.4-5).
But unlike previous judges who were military leaders, Deborah wasn’t raised up to fight in battle. Instead, she called upon Barak, the military commander, to lead the charge against Sisera. God had already commanded Barak to gather 10,000 men from the tribes of Naphtali and Zebulun to defeat Sisera’s army (v.6-7). On one side, we have Jabin and Sisera; on the other, we have Deborah and Barak.
Barak's Reluctance
But here’s where things take an interesting turn. Despite God’s clear command, Barak hesitated. Deborah called him out, asking, “Hasn’t the Lord already commanded you?” (v.6-7). This wasn’t just a casual question; it was a challenge. Barak had already received God’s command, yet he was reluctant to act.
When Barak responds by saying he would only go if Deborah accompanied him (v.8), it might seem like cowardice at first glance. But let’s consider the context. Israel didn’t have a standing army. Barak was gathering 10,000 men who were mostly farmers and shepherds, and they were going to face an army with 900 iron chariots. It’s not hard to understand why Barak would hesitate. It wasn’t about cowardice; it was about seeking reassurance that God was truly with them.
Despite his imperfect faith, God still used Barak. Hebrews 11:32 even lists Barak among the heroes of faith—not because his faith was perfect, but because, despite his doubts, he ultimately obeyed.
Deborah agreed to go with him but told Barak that the glory of defeating Sisera wouldn’t go to him. Instead, it would go to a woman (v.9).
Heber and Jael
At this point in the story, we’re introduced to Heber, a Kenite who lived near Zaanannim. His family was distinct from Israel but had historical ties to them. The significance of Heber and his household becomes clear as the narrative unfolds, especially through his wife, Jael.
After the victory at Mount Tabor, where Barak’s army defeated Sisera’s forces (v.13-16), Sisera fled and sought refuge in Jael’s tent. At first, Jael appeared to be hiding Sisera, offering him milk and covering him up. But then, in a shocking twist, Jael killed Sisera by driving a tent peg through his temple while he was asleep (v.18-21). When Barak arrived looking for Sisera, Jael showed him the body, and the prophecy was fulfilled. God had used an unexpected hero to defeat the enemy.
Application
So, what do we take away from this story? Unlike the previous judges, where we could easily identify the main character, this story doesn’t have one clear focus. Should we focus on Deborah for her leadership and courage? Should we focus on Barak, who shows that God can work through faith—even when it’s mixed with fear and hesitation? Or should we focus on Jael, a non-Israelite who was used by God to fulfill His will?
Many preachers have highlighted Deborah’s leadership, her faith, and her courage. But if we focus solely on her, we might miss the bigger picture. This story is ultimately about God and His sovereign plan. God raised up Deborah, called Barak to lead, gave the strategy for battle, and even stirred Jael’s heart to act.
As Tim Keller puts it, “Salvation is never achieved by human effort. Again and again, God’s people fail, and yet God delivers them—not because they deserve it, but because He is faithful.”
Trusting in the Greater Deliverer
This story ultimately points us to Jesus, the greater Deliverer. Just as Israel was helpless under oppression until God intervened, we were helpless under sin and death until Jesus Christ came to save us. Jesus, unlike Barak, never hesitated. He went to the cross willingly to rescue us (John 10:18). Like Jael, Jesus was the unexpected Savior, fulfilling God’s will in surprising ways.
As Charles Spurgeon reminds us:
“We do not fight for victory; we fight from victory. The victory has already been won by our great Captain, the Lord Jesus Christ.”
So what is the lesson of today’s story?
DEPEND UPON JESUS & TRUST IN HIS FINISHED WORK ON THE CROSS!
No matter what enemy, obstacle, or problem we might face, our victory is already secured through Jesus Christ!
So as you go into this week, this year, and the rest of your life, I pray that you will…
Love, trust, and depend upon Jesus Christ.
Walk in the freedom and victory He has already won for you.
Live with confidence, knowing that His power is at work in you!
Amen?
No matter the circumstance, no matter how intimidating our obstacles and problems may seem, just remember that Jesus is greater and stronger than your problems! So trust in Jesus and rest in His victory!
Reflection and Response
As we reflect on this message, let’s take a moment to quiet our hearts and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Psalm 20:7 – “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.”
May this be the declaration of our lives!
So let's take a moment to ask ourselves:
In what areas of my life am I struggling to trust in Jesus as my Deliverer?
Are there any obstacles, fears, or battles where I have been relying on my own strength instead of depending on Christ?
How does knowing that Jesus has already secured the victory impact the way I live my daily life?
In what ways is God calling me to step out in faith, just as Deborah, Barak, and Jael did?