The book of Judges records the history of Israel from the death of Joshua until the establishment of the Jewish monarchy under King Saul. It is a practical and instructive book that reveals a pattern many Christians will recognize from their own lives: 1) blessing, 2) rebellion, 3) oppression due to disobedience, 4) repentance, and 5) deliverance and renewed blessing.
Judges is rich in encouragement and in practical warnings against moral and spiritual complacency. The judges were servants of God and His people--but they were also flawed human beings, and this book extracts the lessons of both their faithfulness and their failures.
The book of Ruth takes place during the time of the judges. Ruth offers hope, inspiration, and a revitalizing glimpse of God's plan of redemption. It's a practical guide to living for God in an era of moral anarchy and permissiveness. The message of this powerful little book has never been more urgently needed than it is today.
