Join Pastor Taylor Gabbert as he begins a three week study of the life of Samson. Tonight we dive deep into his birth story and the depravity of the day.

The next chapters of Judges are mysterious in the detailed accounting assigned to a godless usurper who was not even a judge as compared to men of spiritual stature who are barely mentioned. The historical facts are sparse, but the spiritual lesson is obvious: sin is a trap that always destroys the sinner.

While Gideon passed the tests of criticism and non-cooperation, he sadly failed at other, more crucial tests of leadership. He relaxed in his role and lost the sense of humility needed for godly success. The tests of leadership require constant spiritual effort.

No great deed was ever accomplished without opposition. Leaders recognize the obstacles to success and yet still pursue the goal. The problem often emerges, however, after success is achieved. Tests for successful leaders demand personal spiritual determination.

Tonight, Pastor Philip Jackson introduces us to the discipline of systematic theology with the doctrine of Scripture.

As God grows a leader in his faith to make him ready and prepared for the tasks assigned him, God also uses the influence of that leader to strengthen the faith of the people around him. Influence follows dependence. Accordingly, a leader’s steady dependence on God requires his awareness and acknowledgement of three faith affirmations.

Although the Holy Spirit had come so powerfully on Gideon, he was still very weak in faith and clearly daunted by the task before him. God often condescends to leaders in order to make His will and His power clear.

Identified by God as a “mighty warrior,” Gideon now begins the process of spiritual preparation. Like Elijah in coming days, Gideon must become in private what he will finally display in public. God develops leaders by strengthening individual character in believers and then expanding influence.

These chapters tell the story of a single event but from different perspectives, the historian (ch.4) and the poet (ch.5). Considered one of the great literary works of the ancient world, Deborah’s song of victory pulses with exultation and ultimately directs praise to God for His mighty works on behalf of His people Israel.

These chapters tell the story of a single event but from different perspectives, the historian (ch.4) and the poet (ch.5). Considered one of the great literary works of the ancient world, Deborah’s song of victory pulses with exultation and ultimately directs praise to God for His mighty works on behalf of His people Israel.