In the final verse of the Book of Judges, we find a sobering summary of a spiritually chaotic time:
“In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.”
— Judges 21:25 (NASB)
That verse resonates with an eerily familiar tone, doesn’t it? In a world that is increasingly driven by the pursuit of personal truth, moral relativism, and a widespread rejection of biblical authority, many believers today feel as though we are indeed reliving the tumultuous days of the Judges. In numerous ways, we find ourselves in a similar situation.
A Cycle of Rebellion, Oppression, and Mercy
The Book of Judges outlines a repeated pattern:
- Israel sins against God by turning to idols and abandoning His commands.
- God allows oppression from surrounding nations as judgment.
- The people cry out in desperation.
- God raises up a deliverer (a judge) to rescue them.
- Peace is restored—until the cycle starts all over again.
Today, we are witnessing a remarkably similar pattern unfolding before our eyes—except this time, it is on a truly global scale. Numerous societies around the world have increasingly pushed God out of the public square, redefined morality according to their own standards, and rejected Scripture as an authoritative source of truth. As a result, just like in ancient Israel, the consequences of these actions are becoming increasingly visible and troubling in our contemporary context.
How Today Mirrors the Time of the Judges
1. Moral Relativism
In ancient Israel, people decided the truth for themselves. Today, we hear phrases like:
- “Live your truth.”
- “What’s true for you may not be true for me.”
But Scripture doesn’t allow for this kind of fluid morality:
“Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil…”
— Isaiah 5:20 (NASB)
2. Widespread Idolatry
Idols in Judges were physical, like Baal and Asherah. Our idols today are often internal: success, sex, self, politics, and comfort.
“…Greed, which amounts to idolatry.”
— Colossians 3:5 (NASB)
We may not bow to carved images, but our hearts are just as prone to wander.
3. Lack of Godly Leadership
The people had no king to lead them in righteousness. Today, many leaders—even in churches—have compromised the truth of God’s Word. Some embrace cultural trends over biblical teaching, fearing rejection more than fearing God.
“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”
— Hosea 4:6 (NASB)
4. God’s Righteous Judgment
In Judges, God’s judgment came in the form of foreign oppression. Today, we see a form of judgment described in Romans 1—God “giving people over” to the consequences of their own sin:
“Therefore God gave them up to vile impurity in the lusts of their hearts…”
— Romans 1:24 (NASB)
This isn’t just wrath—this is the removal of God’s restraining grace, allowing sin to bear its natural fruit.
Our Only Hope: A Greater Deliverer
‘In the time of the Judges, God consistently displayed His mercy by raising up deliverers—imperfect yet chosen individuals such as Deborah, Gideon, and Samson. These figures were instruments of His will, guiding the people through their trials. Today, we celebrate the fact that our ultimate Deliverer has come once and for all: Jesus Christ, the sinless Savior, who triumphed over death and reigns as our Risen King, offering hope and redemption to all who believe.’
He calls us not just to national revival, but to personal repentance and faith in Him:
“The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.”
— Mark 1:15 (NASB)
A Call to the Church Today
We are not helpless, nor should we feel defeated. Even in the darkest and most challenging times, God preserves a faithful remnant of His followers. He is still at work in the world—saving souls, sanctifying lives, and sending His people out into the world to make a difference and spread His love.
Let us be:
- People who submit to Scripture, not culture.
- Believers who walk in truth, not emotion.
- Churches that preach Christ crucified, not motivational fluff.
- Watchmen who warn and witness, not retreat.
“If My people who are called by My name humble themselves, and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways…”
— 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NASB)
The time of the Judges was not the conclusion of the story—and neither is today. God remains sovereign over all. The gospel continues to be a powerful force for transformation. Christ is actively building and strengthening His Church, ensuring that His mission endures.
Will we be part of His faithful remnant?
How do you see the Judges Cycle in your life or community? Share your thoughts below or explore how Christ offers lasting freedom.