The Book of Judges is a most important link between the earlier and later history of Israel. It gives the history of the passage of rule from the Theocracy of early times to the kings who continued till the time of the captivity. The unbelief and declension exhibited in this transition form the staple of the narrative, with the unrepenting patience of God who, spite of the utter incompetence and unbelief manifested by the people, comes in repeatedly to their succor. He is meanwhile manifesting His own purposes, which have their accomplishment alone in Christ, and which will be fulfilled, thanks to Himself, in the day now so near.
In contrast to the darkness of Judges is the lovely Book of Ruth. Historically the link between judges and kings, it pictures family life and customs in ancient Palestine. It traces the widowed Moabitess, Ruth, into a new faith, a new land and a new marriage, which made her an ancestresss of King David and eventually of Jesus Himself. Its story of faith, loyalty and love reveals God's sovereign working through 'all things' of life's joys and tragedies.