When men do not learn to be ruled properly by God, they will be ruled wrongly by man. Dr. Tony Evans explains how spiritual compromise can lead to a nation's downfall, and how God's authority is essential for true leadership. He examines the consequences of Gideon's actions in the book of Judges, including his acceptance of the ephod and his multiple wives, and how these choices led to a cycle of idolatry and illegitimate control. [... more]

When Christians achieve success, they often forget God and make it about themselves. Gideon's story in the book of Judges shows how a leader's heart can turn inward and spoil, leading to ruin and destruction. God's judgment is slow, but always sure, and it may seem like evil is in charge, but in the end, God will have the last word and perfect justice will be served. [... more]

The roots of evil are explored in the lives of Hitler and Abimelech, highlighting the destructive nature of evil and the importance of understanding its characteristics. The Bible teaches that evil people are motivated by opportunity and vulnerability, and that they often cross the line to destroy others. The seeds of evil lie in every human heart, and redemption is necessary to overcome it. God's justice is finely tuned, and He will repay evil in this life and the next. [... more]

The seeds of evil reside in every human heart, and it's often the family and environment that contribute to its development. Pastor Lutzer examines the characteristics of evil people, including their motivation by opportunity and vulnerability, and how they destroy others to protect themselves. He also discusses the importance of recognizing evil and seeking the gospel of Jesus Christ to transform us. [... more]

Abimelech, the bramble king, faces opposition from the people of Shechem, who are influenced by Ga'al, an opportunist. Abimelech's authority is challenged, leading to a series of battles. Ultimately, Abimelech is killed by a woman dropping a millstone on his head, and God fulfills the curse of Jotham, dealing with the wickedness of Abimelech and the people of Shechem. [... more]

The parable of the trees in the Book of Judges teaches that temptations will come and sound sweet, but they're outside of our purpose. Jotham's message warns against distractions from greater things to lesser things, and the dangers of ambition and power. [... more]

Abimelech, a power-crazed son of Gideon, seeks to become king by massacring his 69 brothers and using his campaign slogan 'one or 70' to manipulate the men of Shechem into making him their leader. Jotham, the youngest son of Gideon, delivers a scathing rebuke to the wicked men of Shechem, using a parable to illustrate the importance of faithfulness and serving one's God-given purpose. [... more]