Acts 13:20

All this took about 450 years. After this, God gave them judges until the time of Samuel the prophet.

Study Bible

All this took about four hundred and fifty years
This phrase refers to the period from the time of the judges to the establishment of the monarchy in Israel. The Greek word for "years" (ἔτη, etē) emphasizes the long duration of this era, which was marked by cycles of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. Historically, this period is significant as it highlights God's patience and faithfulness to His covenant people despite their repeated failures. The number "four hundred and fifty" is a summation of the time from the conquest of Canaan to the reign of King Saul, underscoring the divine orchestration of history.

After this, He gave them judges
The term "judges" (κριτάς, kritas) refers to the leaders raised by God to deliver Israel from oppression. These judges were not merely judicial figures but were also military leaders and spiritual guides. The role of the judges was crucial in maintaining the covenant relationship between God and Israel. This period is characterized by the Israelites' repeated turning away from God, followed by His merciful intervention through these appointed leaders. Theologically, this highlights God's sovereignty and His willingness to use flawed human instruments to accomplish His purposes.

until the time of Samuel the prophet
Samuel (Σαμουήλ, Samouēl) is a pivotal figure in Israel's history, serving as the last judge and the first prophet in the line of those who would guide Israel through the monarchy. The word "prophet" (προφήτης, prophētēs) signifies one who speaks forth God's word, serving as a mouthpiece for divine revelation. Samuel's role was crucial in transitioning Israel from a loose confederation of tribes to a centralized monarchy. His life and ministry underscore the importance of obedience to God's word and the consequences of straying from His commands. Samuel's anointing of Saul and later David as kings marks a significant shift in Israel's governance, reflecting God's unfolding plan for His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Judges
Leaders raised by God to deliver Israel from oppression and to govern them. This period was marked by cycles of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance.

2. Samuel the Prophet
The last judge of Israel and a significant prophet who anointed the first two kings of Israel, Saul and David. Samuel played a crucial role in transitioning Israel from a theocracy to a monarchy.

3. Israel
The nation chosen by God, experiencing cycles of faithfulness and rebellion during the time of the judges.

4. God
The sovereign ruler who orchestrates the history of Israel, raising judges to lead His people and ultimately guiding them towards a monarchy.

5. 450 Years
The approximate period from the conquest of Canaan to the establishment of the monarchy, highlighting God's patience and faithfulness despite Israel's repeated failures.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Patience
God orchestrates history according to His divine plan, demonstrating patience with His people despite their repeated failures.

The Cycle of Sin and Redemption
The period of the judges illustrates the human tendency to fall into sin and the need for divine intervention and redemption.

Leadership and Obedience
God raises leaders according to His purpose. Our role is to seek His guidance and obey His appointed leaders.

Transition and Change
The transition from judges to monarchy underlines the importance of adapting to God's evolving plans for His people.

Faithfulness in Uncertainty
Even in times of chaos and uncertainty, God remains faithful. We are called to trust in His timing and provision.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the period of the judges reflect God's character in terms of patience and justice?

2. In what ways can we see the cycle of sin and redemption in our own lives, and how can we break free from it?

3. How does the role of Samuel as a prophet and judge inform our understanding of leadership in the church today?

4. What lessons can we learn from the transition from judges to monarchy about adapting to change in our spiritual journey?

5. How can we apply the faithfulness of God during the 450 years of judges to our current life situations and challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 2:16-19
This passage describes the cycle of sin and deliverance during the time of the judges, providing context for the period mentioned in Acts 13:20.

1 Samuel 3:20
Establishes Samuel as a prophet recognized throughout Israel, marking the transition from judges to prophets and kings.

Hebrews 11:32-34
References the faith of the judges, showing their role in God's plan despite their imperfections.