The book of Judges starts our strong with further conquests by the tribes of Judah and Simeon, but quickly deteriorates into compromise on the part of nearly all the tribes of Israel, failing to drive out the inhabitants of the land, and opting instead to make their enemies tributaries. Following the death and burial of Joshua, and the eventual deaths of all of Israel’s elders, and the emergence of a new generation of Israelites who had never seen the miracles of God, they turn quickly to idolatry, and are oppressed by the gentile nations around them. Over the course of several decades, the LORD raises up judges in Israel to throw off their oppressors, including Othniel, Ehud and Deborah, each leading a successful revolt against their enemies, and returning peace to the land.

Into/Outro music: "Unexpectedly" (c) 1995 Alex Grant Used by permission