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Concluding the series on "Union with God," this week's class delved into the paradoxical nature of how the union with Christ unfolds through the Holy Spirit. To further explore the topic, check out, "Union with Christ" by Gregory Beale.

In the final sermon from the Book of Judges, the focus was on Israel's problem, their self-confidence, and the solution. Drawing parallels between Israel's historical need for salvation and a king, and our present reliance on Jesus as our King, the message emphasized the essential need for the Word of God in our lives today. As recipients of mercy, we must extend the same grace to others - our call to live out the gospel.

In this next installment of the series, "Union with Christ," elder Graham Dennis focuses on the paradox of Christian identity. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, he highlighted how the concepts of weakness and strength help us understand God's transformative work in shaping us into the image of Christ.

In Judges 19 and 20, the haunting narrative of the apostasy in Gibeah unfolds. The absence of a central judge or savior in the last five chapters underscores the pervasive problem of sin and the urgent need for salvation. Taking place concurrently with Judges 2, these chapters vividly depict the depravity of Israel and the tribe of Benjamin, followed by the repentance of Israel, the impenitence of the tribe of Benjamin, and the discipline by Yahweh. As the chilling story unravels, it offers a poignant warning and crucial instruction for All Saints Church, and the broader Church. We are urged to cherish the law of God, actively call others to repentance, and recognize that in the presence of sin lies death, bondage, and misery. The timeless call to repent and place faith in Jesus resonates as a lifeline amid the tumult, offering hope and redemption in the face of spiritual darkness.

In this installment of Graham Dennis's Sunday School series on "Union with Christ," the focus centers on the concepts of sanctification and Christian living.

This week Pastor Kasey unpacks the narrative in Judges 17-18, where the shadows of apostasy and generational sin loom large. This poignant message serves as a powerful reminder that cultural renewal begins with revival in the church, a revival rooted in personal repentance, and ultimately the need for a savior - King Jesus.

About this series:

After receiving the Decalogue on Mount Sinai, the covenant people of God were to take possession of the promised land (Exodus 3:8). However, their lack of faith at Kadesh Barnea resulted in God’s judgment, in which the people would wander in the wilderness for 40 years (Numbers 14). No one from that unbelieving generation would be permitted into the land of Canaan, except for Joshua and Caleb. 

The book of Judges marks the history of God’s covenant people living in the promised land from the time of Joshua’s death to the rise of a monarchy. During this time, God’s people broke the covenant he established at Mount Sinai, characterizing this era as a spiritual and political downward spiral. However, amid the people’s infidelity, God always remained faithful to his covenant promises. Not only did he bring judgement against sin, but he also brought deliverance by raising up tribal leaders and governors, commonly referred to as Judges. 
The period of the Judges displayed the need for God’s rule and kingdom. This would be partially realized by King David under the administration of the Davidic Covenant, but later fully actualized in the rule and kingdom of King Jesus under the administration of the New Covenant. 

As New Testament Saints seeking the realization of God’s rule and kingdom on earth as it is in heaven, the book of Judges serves as a testimony for the Church, in which we are instructed and warned. Join us as we consider the historical events of Judges, as well as the immediate implications for the Church.