Deborah and Barak: Lessons from Judges 4–5
This sermon begins by situating Deborah and Barak within the larger story of Judges. The period is often imagined as chaotic, but in reality it was a structured time in Israel’s history. Most of the 350–400 years of the Judges were marked by peace, interrupted by cycles of sin, oppression, crying out to God, deliverance, and rest. God deliberately left pagan nations among Israel to test their hearts and teach them to depend on Him.
Deborah stands out as a unique leader. When her story opens in Judges 4, she is already judging Israel at the “Palm of Deborah.” She was respected for her wisdom and godly character, and people came to her for guidance. She calls herself “a mother in Israel” (Judges 5:7), showing her role was not one of conquest but of nurture, encouragement, and spiritual leadership.
The crisis came when Jabin, king of Canaan, and his commander Sisera oppressed Israel with 900 iron chariots for 20 years. Deborah summoned Barak from Kedesh and charged him with leading 10,000 men from Zebulun and Naphtali against Sisera. Barak’s response — “I will go if you will go” — is sometimes criticized, but Hebrews 11 lists Barak among the heroes of faith. His statement reflected not cowardice but respect for Deborah’s spiritual authority.
Together they marched to Mount Tabor. God routed Sisera’s army at the Kishon River, where flooding rendered the chariots useless. Barak led the charge and won the battle, while Deborah provided encouragement and prophecy. Sisera fled on foot and found shelter in the tent of Jael, wife of Heber the Kenite. With cunning decisiveness, Jael killed him, and the victory was complete.
Judges 5 records the Song of Deborah, which celebrates God’s deliverance. It describes the despair of oppression, the courage of leaders, and the restored peace when people could again travel safely and gather in the city gates.
From this account, we can draws several lessons:
God empowers ordinary people for extraordinary purposes. Deborah was not a warrior, but her faith and wisdom gave Israel confidence.
Leadership is shared. Deborah encouraged, Barak led, and Jael acted — each fulfilled a role God used for victory.
True humility serves others. Deborah and Barak modeled willingness to step forward together, reminding us that leaders must be ready to do what they ask of others.
Peace is God’s gift after obedience. Just as Israel enjoyed 40 years of peace, God brings restoration when His people repent and trust Him.
Looking for a Church of Christ in Jacksonville, FL?
Are you searching for a Bible-focused, non-denominational church in Jacksonville where you can grow in faith and connect with believers committed to following Scripture? At Cypress Grove Church of Christ, we believe God’s Word is living and relevant — and that includes the stories of Deborah, Barak, and the Judges.
In this sermon, we explore Judges 4–5 and discover how God used Deborah, Barak, and Jael to deliver His people. You’ll see how faith, humility, and courage can change the course of history — and how those same lessons apply to us today.
If you’re looking for a Church of Christ in Jacksonville, FL, we invite you to visit us. Come study God’s Word, grow in faith, and experience the peace that only God can provide.
