The Story Chapter 8 Reflection Questions

Sometimes we think that grace is only abundant in the New Testament. Wrong–God’s grace is all over the Hebrew Bible (The Old Testament). Judges is one place where we see God’s grace at work over and over again.

After the death of Joshua, God’s people felt this pull of worldly culture (sound familiar) and a destructive pattern emerged:

• Israel turned again and again to the worship of pagan gods.
• God brought divine judgment.
• Israel cried out for God’s help.
• God raised up a judge to save them.

This cycle of sin became the pattern of life in Israel for the next 300 years. As you read over this chapter,  use these reflection questions taken from the small group study guide for your own reflective readings.

1. Israel is constantly running from the true God to other false gods.  What are some of the false gods in our culture today?  Which of them have you trusted?

2. False gods trigger a cycle:  a web of sin, God’s judgments, crying out for help, and God providing deliverance.  What are some destructive cycles you have seen in your own life?
3. Do you think that the Israelites did a good job of passing their faith to the next generation?  How can we do this better in the church and in our own families?

4.  How would you describe Deborah?  In what way does her story influence your view of women in leadership?

5.  Do you think Gideon’s request for a sign was an act of faith or an act of faithlessness?  Does his faith change over time?

7.   In what ways was Samson a faithful man of God?  In what ways was he not?

8.  What was Samson’s true weakness?  How can you deal with your weaknesses before they become your downfall?

9.   Where do you see God’s grace in this chapter?

10. Which character in this chapter stands out to you and why?  How can you be more like them?