Mission 66 Bible Commentary

Judges 4 and 5 tell the story of how God used Deborah, a prophetess, and Jael, an ordinary woman, to deliver Israel from oppression by King Jabin of Canaan. Sisera, Jabin’s military commander, dominated Israel for 20 years with his iron chariots, until Deborah called Barak to lead an army against him. When Barak hesitated, Deborah predicted that the victory would ultimately come through a woman, which is exactly what happened. Jael killed Sisera by driving a tent peg into his temple, ensuring Israel’s triumph. Chapter 5 celebrates this victory in "The Song of Deborah," praising God’s deliverance and the courage of Deborah and Jael. This story shows how God works through unexpected people to accomplish His plans.

Judges 3 describes Israel’s recurring cycle of disobedience, discipline, repentance, and deliverance. When the Israelites worshipped idols like Baal and Asheroth, God allowed their enemies to oppress them. Upon repentance, God sent judges—leaders empowered by His Spirit—to rescue His people. The chapter introduces the first three judges: Othniel, Ehud, and Shamgar, who led Israel back to God and brought peace. This chapter reminds us that God’s mercy and power can restore us when we repent and turn back to Him.

Judges 1–2 introduces the time after Joshua’s leadership ended, when Israel failed to fully obey God’s commands to drive out the Canaanites. Idolatry and immoral practices infiltrated their lives, leading to disobedience and oppression. However, God raised up Judges to deliver the Israelites when they repented. This repeating cycle of disobedience, punishment, repentance, and restoration shows God’s faithfulness even in times of rebellion. It reminds us that incomplete obedience brings struggles, but God’s mercy offers redemption when we turn back to Him.

Joshua 23–24 concludes Israel’s conquest of Canaan with Joshua's farewell speech and a renewal of Israel’s covenant with God. Joshua reminds the Israelites of God’s faithfulness and warns against idolatry and alliances that would lead them astray. At Shechem, the tribes renew their commitment to serve God. Joshua’s leadership leaves a legacy of faith and the challenge to remain devoted to the Lord.

Joshua 22 reminds us of the importance of understanding the complete story before making judgments about others. The eastern tribes of Reuben, Gad and half of Manasseh were returning to their land east of the Jordan after faithfully helping their fellow Israelites conquer Canaan. On their way home, they built an altar near the Jordan River. The western tribes misunderstood this action, believing the altar was for rebellious worship. This misunderstanding quickly led to accusations and near conflict. However, after the eastern tribes explained that the altar was simply a witness to their unity and fidelity to God, peace was restored. The western tribes realized they had jumped to conclusions without getting the full story. This chapter teaches us the value of clear communication and unity, especially within the body of believers. It reminds us to avoid rash judgment and seek understanding instead.