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Strong Women Strong World
Deborah | Part 2
Senior Pastor Keith Stewart
July 06, 2025

In spite of the fact that the Bible was written during a time of extreme patriarchy (where the rights of men were foremost and the rights of women practically non-existent) we still find many examples of strong women. Women who are not passive, demure and timid but active, bold and assertive. Deborah's story stands in bold opposition to those who say women can’t lead. Because not only does Deborah lead in the civic and spiritual realm, her leadership is unrivaled by any of the other male leaders of her day.

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Discussion Questions

1. Pastor Keith, in his introduction, talked about the cycle of judgment in the book of Judges and how with each repetition, things got worse producing a downward spiral in the nation. He explained how sin is repetitious, monotonous and destructive. But the second defining characteristic of sin is, if left unaddressed, it will always escalate. How and where have you seen the truth of this played out? How is addiction an example of this principle? What is necessary to break free of this destructive cycle?

2. Do you know someone that you consider to be a “great leader” (preferably someone you know personally)? What makes him or her excellent?

3. What things can we learn about leadership and the way God operates based on his choosing of Deborah and her unique gifts and roles in the life of Israel? Why do you think Scripture intentionally parallels the song of Moses alongside the song of Deborah? Do you think the high role of Deborah in Judges should play a part in determining what roles women can and should play in the Church today? Why or why not?

4. Just like in this story, sometimes it seems that the deck is stacked against us and the enemy has all the advantages. It’s easy to get overwhelmed. But God has a plan. The question is, are we willing to do it His way? Or are we too busy making caveats, exceptions and putting conditions on our obedience? Have you ever been asked by God to do something, that at the time, didn’t make sense but in the end, it was the best choice? If you’re up against something particularly challenging right now, what in this story speaks to you about what you could or should be doing right now?

5. As Virginia Ely said your life represents a fresh thought of God and He has put you where you are to make a difference. What dream has He placed in your heart? What longings have you had that never seem to go away? You do realize, don’t you, that if God wills something to happen, it will happen. You will never ultimately fail in following God.