Leader Guide
As we continue our journey from Eden to eternity through the Old Testament, we now arrive at the time of the judges. Moses has died, Joshua has faithfully led God’s people into the Promised Land, and he too has passed away. The Israelites are left without a central leader. And as you might guess—when the leader is gone, the people begin to wander. Instead of remaining faithful, the Israelites compromised with the nations around them. Sin gradually replaced obedience to God. Yet in His mercy, God raised up judges to guide, rescue, and call His people back to Himself. This week, we’ll pause here to see what God wants to show us about compromise, courage, and obedience in our own walk with Him.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
Leader: This section is designed to get discussions started, examine God’s truth, and apply it to our week. Life Group leaders should not assume everyone in their group is a Christ follower. Because they are taking part in a Life Group, they must have some openness to know more and explore. Pray for the Holy Spirit to work and let Him lead you as well.
1. When you have a dirty pot, do you usually let it soak or wash it right away? Have you ever had a time when your parents, teacher, or boss was away—and you, or the group, misbehaved? What happened?
2. Compromise is the first step towards captivity. Read Judges 2:16-19; 4:1-3. What was the result of the Israelites’ compromise with surrounding nations? How do we see a “cycle of sin” here? Are there areas where you tend to ignore or excuse certain sins? What's the danger in doing that?
Leader: The cycle of sin in Judges—sin—oppression—repentance—deliverance—repeat. Compromise leads them and us to spiritual captivity even when it seems small.
3. God calls for an immediate response. Read Judges 4:4-8. Compare Deborah’s response to God’s call with Barak's. What differences do you notice? Do you tend to respond like Deborah or Barak? Why? Do you think Barak’s hesitation shows fear, lack of faith, or wisdom in wanting confirmation? Why?
Leader: God is looking for willing hearts. Barak wanted reassurance; Deborah trusted God immediately. However, notice that God still used Barak for His purposes.
4. Courage is the key to breakthrough. Read Judges 4:9; 12-15. What does this show us about how God values obedience over human strength or status? Why do you think God often requires a step of faith before showing us success? Share a time when taking a small step of faith led to breakthrough in your life.
Leader: Faith grows when we act on God’s Word, even before we see the outcome. Obedience requires courage but God is faithful to meet us when we take that first step. Our God is faithful to forgive, restore, and use us when we turn to Him just like He did for Barak.
5. Action Steps: Where is God asking you to move from “good intentions” to real obedience? Is there something God has convicted you of, but you’ve delayed responding to? (For Example: A relationship to mend, a habit to stop, or a bold step of faith.)
Deeper Dive (Optional): Read Jonah 1:1-3, 8-9,17; 2:1-2; 3:1-5, 10. How do Jonah’s actions mirror the Israelites’ cycle of disobedience and deliverance? What do Jonah’s second chance and the people of Nineveh’s repentance teach us about God’s mercy? Where in your own life do you need to stop running and start responding to God’s call?