Every Man Did What Was Right In His Own Sight

Synopsis    Judges 21:22-Ruth 1:7     7/30/2018

The conclusion of the book of Judges finishes with the observation that, “everyone did what was right in their own sight”. Accordingly, the belief was that, “because there was no king,” the people acted in a disordered way.

Around the same time, a family from Bethlehem experienced a great famine and decided to move to the plains of Moab. Elimelech, Naomi and their two sons wanted to start a new life in a new land. However, Elimelch died. And though both sons chose to marry Moabite women, they both subsequently died. This left the three women without resources.

 Everyone Did What Was Right in Their Own Sight

God’s “children of Israel” project looked to be in serious danger of failing. The people had not adhered to the law of Moses. They had embraced the idolatry of the nations that they had displaced. Perhaps more importantly, they had abandoned the tenants of justice and mercy that were built into the law.

The Israelites were failing the covenant. The priesthood provided mediation to heal the sins of the nation. And the judges provided for the resolution of disputes. But there was a lack of leadership to focus the attention of the nation toward a single purpose build on a foundation of a single standard.

The Challenge of a Plural Society Where Every Truth is Relative

It’s the common mantra of my time: “Everyone has their own truth”. And while It’s not hard to fashion philosophical arguments that point to the inadequacy of thinking this way, pointing out the error doesn’t seem to be producing a more united community.

I, like many people, want the world to be different. So, for my sake and the sake of my children, I want the world to be more equitable and more just. And, I want a culture that is enriched by the efforts of people who are deeply committed to the common good.

The Israelites looked for a king to help achieve this goal. But, the royal aristocracy failed to deliver. So it remained that, “Every man’s way remained right in his own eye’s”. Just like now when every man’s way remains right in his own eyes.

The world awaits a pattern and example they can believe in.

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; Upon those who lived in a land of gloom a light has shone”. Isaiah 9:1