Deborah, "a mother in Israel," sang the praises of Jael for killing Sisera. We might think this a most unmotherly notion. Does it not contradict the purpose of the Gospel? By no means. As P. J. Hoedemaker makes clear, while God is merciful He is also just, and during the Age of the Judges called upon His people to execute that judgment. Just as He will call His people to execute judgment over the 12 tribes of Israel (Matthew 19: 28), and over the world and the angels (1 Corinthians 6: 2-3).

Contrary to the usual perception, the Age of the Judges constituted a major step forward in this program. For in it, judgment begins in the house of God (1 Peter 4: 17), a judgment which brings about mercy and redemption. What appear to be a series of failures are actually stepping stones to a greater and higher salvation. Hoedemaker unfolds this tale with a masterful hand.