Mission 66 Bible Commentary

Ruth 1 introduces us to a story of sadness and resilience during the challenging time of the Judges. Naomi and her family, seeking refuge from famine, leave Israel for Moab. But tragedy strikes when Naomi loses her husband and two sons, leaving her and her Moabite daughters-in-law in despair. Naomi, bitter and broken, decides to return to Bethlehem, urging Orpah and Ruth to stay in Moab. Orpah agrees, but Ruth—displaying remarkable loyalty—vows to stay with Naomi and adopt her people and her God. This chapter teaches us that even in times of profound loss and bitterness, there is room for hope and perseverance. Ruth’s unwavering faith and dedication become a model for trusting God through life’s hardest challenges.

Judges 19–21 reveals the deep chaos and tragedy in Israel when God’s authority is rejected. A Levite’s concubine is abused to death by the men of Gibeah, sparking outrage and civil war as Israel battles the tribe of Benjamin for defending the criminals. The conflict leads to devastating losses and desperate measures to save Benjamin from extinction. These chapters teach the dangers of relying on human reasoning and show how rejecting God’s guidance results in moral and societal collapse.

Judges 17–18 reveals Israel’s spiritual decline as they drifted from God’s law. Micah created idols from stolen silver and hired a Levite to be his personal priest. Meanwhile, the tribe of Dan abandoned their allotted territory, stealing Micah’s idols and priest to set up idolatrous worship after conquering the city of Laish. These chapters highlight the chaos of a time when “everyone did what was right in his own eyes,” and warn against idolatry and disregarding God’s guidance. When we replace God’s truth with our own ideas, we risk spiritual destruction.

Judges 16 recounts the tragic story of Samson’s fall and ultimate redemption. Samson’s strength was tied to his Nazirite vow, but his poor choices, especially his relationship with Delilah, led to betrayal. Delilah revealed the secret of his strength—his uncut hair—and Samson was captured, blinded, and imprisoned by the Philistines. In his final act, Samson prayed to God for strength, bringing down the Philistine temple and defeating thousands of enemies, including himself. Despite Samson’s failures, God’s plans prevailed, showing His power is greater than human flaws.

Judges 14–15 recount Samson’s story as an imperfect judge who displayed supernatural strength but often lacked wisdom in his decisions. Despite impulsive actions, God used him to confront the oppressive Philistines and deliver Israel. From killing a lion and creating conflict at his wedding to tying torches to foxes and defeating thousands of Philistines, Samson’s story teaches us that God can accomplish His plans through human imperfection. It encourages us to seek God’s wisdom alongside using our gifts. #Samson