The iconic instruction of the classic Hollywood movie director was: “Lights, camera, action!”

In some ways these same instructions could apply to a study of the Old Testament book of Judges.

“Lights!” A careful study of the text shines a light on what took place in Israel over three thousand years ago.

“Camera!” We want to be sure that what we see and learn is something we retain and apply to our own lives here and now.

“Action!” There certainly is plenty of dramatic action to be seen in the lives and service of the twelve individuals featured in these accounts.

But then there is yet another command barked out by the aforementioned director: “Cut!” That order is given when the scene does not go well and the one in charge wants everything to come to a halt and the scene improved.

That instruction, too, could apply to the book of Judges with the same scene repeated over and over again in its troublesome form as a four-step cycle is seen in its pernicious form over a 337-year period of time. In watching the action unfold, we feel like shouting, “Cut!”

And so we begin a consideration of the script acted out by the first three of twelve judges featured in the Book of Judges in this series of studies entitled, “Stout-hearted Men and Women” in this episode entitled, “Fit for the Master’s Use.”

Thank you for listening to Ancient Words, Modern Message. You can expect episodes twice a month on Monday. Ancient Words, Modern Message is supported by Hebrew Christian Fellowship. To learn more about our ministry, or to ask a question, contact HCFellowship4819@gmail.com. We might just answer your question on a future episode of Ancient Words, Modern Message. If you know a person that you think would benefit from this teaching, please share it with them. And if you’d like to support Ancient Words, Modern Message, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Your input helps us make the podcast even better and reach new listeners. Ancient Words, Modern Message is produced by Studio D Podcast Production and hosted by Rev. Roger Wambold, Director of Hebrew Christian Fellowship.