Strange Parcel

Judges 19

What is the most unusual gift that you have ever received?

Why is this passage introduced by the lack of a monarchy in Israel?

Is Israel truly without a king at this point, and if so, why are they without a king?

Describe the relationship between the Levite and his concubine at the beginning of the story.

Why does the girl’s father keep stalling them from beginning the long journey back from Bethlehem to Ephraim?

Imagine you are going on this dangerous journey in the ancient world. What thoughts are going through your head as you leave the safety of home?

What does it say about Israel that the servant wants to stay in Jebus for the night?

Why does the Benjaminite want to get to an Israelite city so badly?

What does it tell us about Gibeah that no one offers them hospitality there?

What are some parallels between the old man in the square and Lot at Sodom?
Why does the old man insist that they not spend the night in the square?

Describe the hospitality that the old man provides for them.

The story takes a harsh turn in verse 22 and forward. What is revealed about the character of the Israelite people that this roving gang of rapists is allowed
to continue in this town?

What does it say about their character that they offer their daughter and concubine rather than themselves to this rogue mob?

Why does the man set his concubine outside the door all by herself that night?

What is his attitude towards her the next morning after that inexpressibly horrible night?

What is his purpose in dismembering her and grotesque, morbid gesture of sending her body parts out to the other tribes?

Describe the attitude of the narrator as we come to the end of this text.

What do you expect the responses of the other Israelites will be to this horrible event?

Why does God allow such awful things to happen in his world, among his own people?

When have been some times that you have been person ally confronted by the dangers and violence of the city?

What are some things that we as followers of Jesus can do to help stop violence in our communities?

What are some steps that you need to take to improve the relationships you have with those closest to you?