Lucifer made sure the Israelites witnessed the Canaanite worship of demon gods. The heathen worship was exciting as there was plenty of food and alcohol, nude dancing, and sexual gratification. The Hebrews worshiped God in reverence, holiness and prayer with animal sacrifices. This was dull in comparison to the heathens who turned their worship into orgies with human sacrifice.

The Israelites walked away from God and became just as evil as the Canaanites! As a result, they were repeatedly judged for their sins. God would lift His protection and allow a foreign nation to occupy the Promised Land, sometimes up to 20 years, before the Hebrews repented of their sins. God responded by forgiving them and setting up a judge that led them in battle against the oppressors.

It was a rollercoaster ride as the Hebrews endured one invasion after another, but stubbornly refused to learn from the past, as they were continually enslaved by conquering nations. Lucifer was able to control Israel for more than 375 years and must have thought that he had found a method to keep the Godhead from being able to usher in a Redeemer.

The Godhead reflected how to stop this vicious circle that Lucifer had embarked upon. It was not enough to have the Levites and judges lead Israel, something stronger was needed, and the decision was made to start sending prophets who would act as a mouthpiece for God.

This period of history looks strikingly similar to our times. We would like to think of ourselves as more refined, but Israel’s brutal history and spiritual battle is remarkably similar to ours. The solution back then is still the solution today. The question remains… what are you going to do?

Print out the sermon outline and let's examine the Scriptures together Sunday morning at 9:00 AM PST.

Yours in Christ,

Pastor John S. Torell