problem and the ultimate reason why they were in such dire straits. The prophets held out the hope of a restored nation, but there must be genuine covenant renewal to avoid the old cycle of sin and judgment being repeated in the future. The people must take seriously their calling to be distinct from the nations around them and embrace a renewed vision of a united covenant community.83 (3) The book of Judges also demonstrated Israel’s need for competent, godly leadership. The prologue speaks of the