"What A Mess: Finding Jesus In The Book Of Judges” | Rev. Vicki Harrison
Why Look for Jesus in a Mess Like Judges?
Ever feel like the world is spiraling? Like everything’s broken—personally, globally, spiritually? That’s exactly why we spent four weeks in the Book of Judges in our series What A Mess. In this final message, Finding Jesus in the Book of Judges, Pastor Vicki helps us see that even in a dark and chaotic story, God is pointing us to the hope of the gospel.
Watch the full service below or listen to the sermon audio player.
Key Takeaways from Week 4: Finding Jesus in the Book of Judges
1. The World Has Always Been Broken—and Judges Proves It
The Book of Judges is a downward spiral of idolatry, sin, and forgetfulness. Over and over again, God's people do "what is right in their own eyes" (Judges 21:25). Even after being rescued time and again, they return to disobedience. It’s not just an ancient problem—it’s a human one.
“Judges is a microcosm of the human condition.”
2. We Need a Better Judge—One Who Saves for Good
The leaders in Judges—like Deborah, Gideon, and Samson—provided temporary help. But the people always fell back into chaos. What they needed, and what we still need, is a Savior who doesn’t just rescue for a moment, but transforms forever. That better Judge is Jesus.
“Jesus didn’t just save us. He showed us a new way to be human.”
3. Salvation Isn’t the End—It’s the Beginning
Belief in Jesus isn’t just about avoiding eternal separation from God. It’s about stepping into a new kind of life right now. Discipleship isn’t checking a box. It’s saying yes to being formed into the image of Christ—loving radically, serving humbly, and living differently.
“Jesus didn’t say ‘make Christians.’ He said ‘make disciples.’”
How Does This Apply to My Life?
It’s easy to claim belief. It’s harder to follow. Pastor Vicki reminded us that being a disciple means putting Jesus—not ourselves—at the center. That means loving our neighbors, forgiving freely, and letting go of idols like comfort, control, or self-interest.
So ask yourself:
Have I said yes to Jesus? And am I truly following Him—or just believing in Him?
Take your next step by connecting in a Group or reaching out for prayer. Don’t do this walk alone.
From Mess to Mission
The Book of Judges may show us how far we fall, but it also points to the One who lifts us up. Jesus is the ultimate Judge, King, and Savior—calling us not only to be saved but to be transformed. At New Hope, we want to Know Jesus, Grow Faith, and Go Multiply.
Discover how you can live out that mission by visiting our Mission Page or exploring the Message Archive.
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More Sermons in this Series
Other Sermons from Pastor Vicki
Even in the darkest parts of scripture, God is pointing us to Jesus. In this final message of What A Mess, Pastor Vicki reveals how the Book of Judges shows our need for a Savior—and how Jesus meets us in our brokenness. Watch or listen now.