Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, was judging Israel at that time. ~ Judges 4:4. She was a prophetess; one instructed in Divine knowledge by the inspiration of the Spirit of God. She judged Israel as God's mouth to them; correcting abuses, and redressing grievances.
Deborah describes the distressed state of Israel under the tyranny of Jabin, that their salvation might appear more gracious. She shows what brought this misery upon them. It was their idolatry. They chose new gods, with new names. But under all these images, Satan was worshiped.
By God's direction, she ordered Barak to raise an army, and engage Jabin's forces. Barak insisted much upon her presence. Deborah promised to go with him. She would not send him where she would not go herself. Those who in God's name call others to their duty, should be ready to assist them in it. Barak values the satisfaction of his mind, and the good success of his enterprise, more than mere honor.
She is the only female judge, or, indeed, female ruler of any kind in Jewish history. She is also the only judge to whom the title "prophet" is expressly given. "Prophetess" implies the possession of poetic as well as of prophetic gifts (Exodus 15:20); and we see her right to such a title, both in her predictions (Judges 4:9), her lofty courage (Judges 5:7), and the splendor of her inspired song...
Today, in these end of time days, we too can and should be like Deborah... correcting abuses and redressing grievances. There is much idolatry in the world and she by God's direction took action.
Obedience is defined as submission to the restraint or command of authority. As Christians, we are to be obedient to God and His commands because of His great mercy and grace to us. In this selection of sermons, Alistair Begg reminds us that our obedience should come from love for God and should be reflected in every area of our life ~ Alistair Begg
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