Judges 21:25

In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.

Study Bible

In those days
This phrase sets the historical context for the events described in the Book of Judges. It refers to a period in Israel's history after the death of Joshua and before the establishment of the monarchy. This was a time marked by a cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. The phrase "in those days" suggests a time of transition and instability, where the Israelites were struggling to maintain their identity and faithfulness to God amidst surrounding pagan influences.

there was no king in Israel
The absence of a king highlights the lack of centralized leadership and authority in Israel during this period. The Hebrew word for "king" is "melek," which signifies not just a political leader but also a spiritual guide who upholds God's law. The lack of a king symbolizes the spiritual and moral vacuum in Israel, where the people had no earthly figure to guide them in righteousness. This absence foreshadows the eventual demand for a monarchy, as seen in the books of Samuel, where the Israelites seek a king to lead them like other nations.

everyone did what was right
This phrase indicates a subjective morality that prevailed among the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "right" is "yashar," meaning straight or upright. However, in this context, it implies that each person determined their own standard of right and wrong, leading to moral relativism. This self-determined morality often led to actions that were contrary to God's commandments, resulting in chaos and disorder within the society.

in his own eyes
The phrase "in his own eyes" suggests a reliance on personal judgment rather than divine guidance. The Hebrew word for "eyes" is "ayin," which can also mean perspective or understanding. This indicates that the people were guided by their own limited and flawed understanding rather than seeking God's wisdom and direction. This self-reliance and rejection of divine authority led to the moral and spiritual decline of the nation, as each person acted according to their own desires and inclinations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israel
The nation of God's chosen people, who during this period were a confederation of tribes rather than a unified kingdom.

2. Judges
Leaders raised by God to deliver Israel from oppression and lead them, though not in a centralized or consistent manner.

3. Tribal Confederation
The twelve tribes of Israel, each operating semi-independently, often leading to disunity and moral chaos.

4. Moral Relativism
The prevailing attitude during this time, where individuals determined their own standards of right and wrong.

5. Absence of a King
The lack of centralized leadership, which contributed to the moral and social chaos described in the book of Judges.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Moral Relativism
Without a standard of truth, society descends into chaos. Believers are called to adhere to God's Word as the ultimate standard.

The Need for Godly Leadership
The absence of a king in Israel highlights the importance of godly leadership. In our lives, Christ should be our King, guiding our decisions.

Consequences of Disobedience
When individuals or societies reject God's authority, they face moral and spiritual decline. Obedience to God brings order and blessing.

The Role of Scripture in Guiding Life
Scripture provides the moral and spiritual compass needed to navigate life. Regular study and application of God's Word are essential.

Community Accountability
The tribal disunity in Judges shows the need for accountability within the body of Christ. Believers should encourage and correct one another in love.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the absence of a king in Israel during the time of Judges reflect the spiritual state of the nation, and what can we learn from this about the importance of Christ's lordship in our lives?

2. In what ways do you see moral relativism affecting our society today, and how can Christians respond to uphold biblical truth?

3. How can we ensure that our decisions align with God's will rather than doing what is right in our own eyes?

4. What role does godly leadership play in your life, and how can you cultivate a heart that seeks guidance from Christ and His Word?

5. How can the church today foster a sense of community accountability to prevent the kind of disunity and moral decline seen in the book of Judges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 12:8
This verse warns against doing what is right in one's own eyes, highlighting the need for adherence to God's commands.

Proverbs 21:2
This verse emphasizes that while a person may think their way is right, the Lord weighs the heart, underscoring the need for divine guidance.

1 Samuel 8:5-7
The Israelites' request for a king, which reflects their desire for centralized leadership, contrasting with the period of the Judges.

Romans 1:21-25
Describes the consequences of rejecting God's truth and following one's own desires, similar to the moral decline in Judges.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages trust in the Lord rather than relying on one's own understanding, offering a solution to the chaos seen in Judges.