BIBLE CHARACTERS

Lesson #10

 

Deborah:

The Warrior Prophetess

Judges 4-5

Victor M. Eskew

 

 

1.    We read of two titles given to Deborah, “a prophetess” (Jud. 4:4) and “a mother in Israel” (Jud. 5:7).  What other title(s) would you give this woman after reading her story?

 

2.    Do you believe that Deborah was a righteous individual in Israel?  What are the things that cause you to believe this about her, if so?

 

3.    Judges 4:4 states that Deborah “judged Israel.”  There are times when the Bible simply states the facts without providing commentary about God’s feelings regarding these facts.  QUESTIONS: 

a.    Why was a woman judging Israel at this time instead of a man? 

b.    Was her being a judge something which God approved or simply tolerated?

 

4.    Are there any dangers when women are in positions of leadership?

 

5.    Do you believe that Barak was a weak man who stood in need of a strong woman to support him?  What weaknesses in a man cause women to have to move toward leadership positions in the home, the economy, the nation, and the church?

 

6.    Are they times when women, like Deborah, have step to the forefront in order for battles to be won?

 

7.    Does the Lord raise up special women at various points in history in order to accomplish His will?  If so, why raise up a woman?  Why not accomplish His will through a strong, spiritual man?

 

8.    In the Lord’s church, we should never see a woman occupy the position of an elders, a deacon, or a pulpit minister (1 Cor. 14:34-35; 1 Tim. 2:11-15; 1 Tim. 3:2; 3:12; Tit. 1:6).  If this is the Lord’s will, how can women still be strong leaders in the body of Christ?

 

9.    What is a quality of Deborah that women today can take from her and apply in their lives?