Judges - Chapter-4

Chapter Summary

Victories of Deborah and Barak.

What does this chapter show us about the role of women in God's work? How might this have spoken into the ancient culture? How does this speak into our own culture?
Why do you think the people turn from bad to worse in verse 1? What did the leader's death have to do with this?
The people of Israel don't cry out to God for help in verse 3 until they are in distress. Do you find this to be true in your own life? Why or why not?
How is Barak a negative example in this chapter? How can we avoid this example in our own lives?
Evaluate Jael's actions. Is the deception she employs justified? Explain why or why not.
How does this chapter show us a God who uses unconventional means to save? What are some other examples of this in the Bible and in history?
What might have been the motivation of Israel's enemies in oppressing them in this chapter? What is God's motive in saving them from oppression?
How does this chapter show us that God is faithful when his people are in distress? How does this shape our attitude toward him?
How might you use this chapter to encourage a new believer toward prayer? (Especially from verse 3.)
How might you retell this chapter to a child? What parts would you include and exclude? What explanations might you add?