Tony Evans Teaches Old Testament SurveySample

We look up to the heroes of the Bible for their accomplishments, but they were not flawless role models. In reality, they were sinful, imperfect leaders. One reason the Bible has such power is that it tells the whole truth about these heroes and their sinfulness. Their failures are on full display. You see, these Old Testament stories aren’t just stories of victory, but also contain reports of defeat brought on by disobedience, unfaithfulness and lack of courage. 

 From Joshua to Esther, the progress of the Israelites from the wilderness to conquering the Promised Land unfolds. When God established the nation for Himself, He was to be the King of Israel. As King, He would be the perfect leader. He would defend the people, fight their battles, expand their territory, bless their lands and govern them righteously. However, the people rejected Him and wanted a human king. Therefore, God granted their wish knowing that a human king would only bring failure. He gave instructions for how the earthly kind should behave. But by the end of this group of books, we see the monarchy fully established and functioning, but holistically in sinful and dysfunctional ways.

In the historical books of the Old Testament, we see cycles of disobedience, judgement, repentance and restoration. They tell the story of the moral and religious decline. Yet, because God always keeps His promises, we see revival and restoration. Though it’s frustrating to read the constant disobedience and failure of the kings, we must remember that the historical books still point to Christ. They look forward to a king who will perfectly obey God’s instructions, defeat all enemies and establish a never-ending kingdom. That King is Christ, but the enemy is not a physical one. The enemy is sin and death, both defeated and conquered by Jesus. 

What conclusions can you draw about looking to Jesus for leadership vs looking to human leaders?