ARISE Bible Breakdown
Pray First:
“Lord, open my eyes to see, my ears to hear, and my heart to obey every word You speak. Amen.”
Read the Passage (CSB)
Judges 1:1-36 (Christian Standard Bible)
1 After the death of Joshua, the Israelites inquired of the Lord, “Who will be the first to fight for us against the Canaanites?” 2 The Lord answered, “Judah is to go. I have handed the land over to him.” 3 Judah said to his brother Simeon, “Come with me to my allotted territory, and let’s fight against the Canaanites. I will also go with you to your allotted territory.” So Simeon went with him…
*(continue through verse 36—see full text
(Tip: Mark every time a tribe “failed to drive out” or the enemy was **“determined to stay.”)*
Key Themes & Insights
|
Theme |
Where it Appears |
Take-Home Truth |
|
Leadership Vacuum |
vv.1-2 |
Without Joshua, Israel had to learn collective obedience. |
|
Partial Obedience |
vv.19, 21, 27-34 |
What we spare today will snare us tomorrow. |
|
Determined Enemies |
vv.27, 34-35 |
Sin is stubborn; we must be more persistent than the stronghold. |
|
Iron Chariots vs. Faith |
v.19 vs. Joshua 11:6 |
Technology isn’t the problem—trust is. |
|
Names Matter |
“Judah” = Praise; “Simeon” = Hearing |
Lead with praise, then listen—don’t add what God didn’t command. |
Cross-References
Joshua 11:6 — God told Joshua to hamstring the horses and burn the chariots; Joshua obeyed precisely and won.
Joshua 1:9 — “Haven’t I commanded you: be strong and courageous… the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
Galatians 5:9 — “A little leaven leavens the whole batch of dough.
Discussion Questions
Where do you see partial obedience in your own life that mirrors Israel’s compromise?
Which tribe’s story in Judges 1 most resonates with your current faith struggle, and why?
How does knowing God already promised victory change your view of the “iron chariots” you face?
Judah brought Simeon along—what “familiar comfort” are you tempted to carry that God never required?
Compare Joshua’s courage (Joshua 11) with Israel’s fear in Judges 1. What fueled the difference?
Journal Prompts
List three “Canaanites” (habits, relationships, thought patterns) you’ve allowed to “live among” you. Ask God for a strategy to evict them.
Write a praise declaration like Judah—begin every line with “Lord, I praise You because…”.
Finish this sentence: “If I were fully convinced that God is with me, I would _________.”
Application Steps
Identify one area of compromise and replace it with immediate obedience this week.
Speak Joshua 1:9 aloud each morning—faith comes by hearing.
Partner praise with action: worship first, then tackle the task God assigned without delay.
Memory Verse
Judges 1:2 — “Judah is to go. I have handed the land over to him.”
(Remind yourself: God hands it over, but I must march in.)
Closing Prayer
“Father, thank You for exposing every pocket of partial obedience in me. Give me Judah’s praise and Joshua’s courage to obey You completely. By Your Spirit I will drive out every stronghold and walk in the fullness of Your promise, in Jesus’ name. Amen.”
Next Session: Judges 2—The Cost of Compromise Continues. Bring your notes and a ready heart!