“In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did that which was right in his own eyes.”
Historical Context:The book of Judges covers a period in Israel’s history after the conquest of Canaan when they were settled in the Promised Land but before the establishment of a monarchy. During this time, Israel was governed by a series of leaders known as judges who were raised up by God to deliver the people from their enemies. However, there was no central authority or king to provide consistent guidance or maintain law and order.
Absence of a King:The verse begins by stating that “there was no king in Israel.” The absence of a king meant that Israel lacked a centralized leadership and authority. Without a king, the nation faced challenges in terms of governance, security, and spiritual guidance. It highlights the need for a strong and righteous leader to guide the people.
Moral Relativism:The verse continues by saying, “every man did that which was right in his own eyes.” This phrase reflects a state of moral relativism and individualism prevalent in Israel during that time. With no centralized leadership or clear standard of morality, people became free to pursue their own desires and ideas of what was right. This led to a breakdown of moral values and the prevalence of idolatry and sinful practices.
Consequences:The absence of a king and the resulting moral relativism had serious consequences for Israel. The subsequent chapters in the book of Judges describe a cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance that the Israelites went through repeatedly. The lack of centralized leadership and moral guidance led to a chaotic and spiritually wayward society.
Lessons for Today:The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of godly leadership and a solid moral foundation within a society. It highlights the dangers of moral relativism, where everyone decides for themselves what is right and wrong, leading to the breakdown of moral values and societal order. It emphasizes the need for individuals to submit to God’s authority and seek His guidance in their lives.
The Need for Jesus Christ:Ultimately, this verse points to the need for a righteous king who can lead and guide God’s people. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is revealed as the King of kings and the Lord of lords. He provides the perfect example of godly leadership and offers salvation and forgiveness to all who believe in Him. Through faith in Jesus, individuals can find true guidance, moral clarity, and eternal life.
