Character Study Of Barak Series

CHARACTER STUDY OF BARAK – MILITARY LEADER UNDER DEBORAH

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Judges 4:6

"And Deborah sent and called Barak the son of Abinoam out of Kedeshnaphtali, and said unto him, Hath not the Lord God of Israel commanded, saying, Go and draw toward Mount Tabor, and take with thee ten thousand men of the children of Naphtali and of the children of Zebulun?"

Supporting Texts:

Judges 4:6-16, Judges 5:12-18, Hebrews 11:32-34, Psalm 20:7, Isaiah 41:10

INTRODUCTION:

Barak was a military leader chosen by God to deliver Israel from the oppression of King Jabin of Canaan and his commander Sisera. He was summoned by the prophetess and judge, Deborah, who reminded him of God’s command to lead an army against the Canaanite forces.

Initially hesitant, Barak refused to go to battle unless Deborah accompanied him. Because of this, the honour of defeating Sisera was given to a woman, Jael, instead of Barak. However, when he finally acted, Barak led Israel to a great military victory through God’s intervention.

Despite his initial reluctance, Barak is remembered as a man of faith, included in the list of heroes of faith in Hebrews 11:32. His story teaches us that even when we hesitate, God’s power can still work through us when we trust and obey Him.

1. BARAK WAS CHOSEN BY GOD TO LEAD ISRAEL IN BATTLE

Barak's leadership was divinely appointed.

a) He was called by God through Deborah (Judges 4:6)

God specifically chose him for this assignment.

b) He was given a clear military strategy by God (Judges 4:7)

God promised victory over Sisera’s army.

c) He gathered 10,000 warriors for battle (Judges 4:10)

He mobilised Israel’s army for the fight.

d) His mission was part of God’s plan to deliver Israel (Judges 4:14)

The battle was the Lord’s, not his.

e) Biblical Example: Gideon was also called to lead Israel despite his doubts (Judges 6:12-16)

2. BARAK HESITATED TO ACT WITHOUT DEBORAH

His reluctance showed both fear and dependence on human assurance.

a) He doubted himself despite God’s clear command (Judges 4:8)

Instead of trusting God, he relied on Deborah’s presence.

b) He placed conditions on his obedience (Judges 4:8)

He refused to go unless Deborah went with him.

c) He lacked full confidence in God’s power (Judges 4:9)

His faith needed encouragement.

d) Because of his hesitation, the glory of killing Sisera was given to a woman (Judges 4:9)

Jael, not Barak, received the final honour of victory.

e) Biblical Example: Moses also hesitated when God called him to lead Israel (Exodus 4:10-14)

3. BARAK LED ISRAEL TO A GREAT VICTORY

Despite his initial hesitation, he ultimately fulfilled his mission.

a) He obeyed when Deborah confirmed God’s command (Judges 4:14)

He stepped out in faith after being reassured.

b) He strategically led Israel’s army into battle (Judges 4:12-13)

He positioned his troops for success.

c) God intervened, causing confusion in Sisera’s army (Judges 4:15)

The Canaanites were overwhelmed by divine power.

d) He pursued Sisera’s army until they were completely defeated (Judges 4:16)

He carried out God’s plan to completion.

e) Biblical Example: Joshua led Israel to victory at Jericho through obedience (Joshua 6:20)

4. BARAK WAS HONOURED FOR HIS FAITH

He is remembered as a hero of faith in the Bible.

a) He was included in the Hall of Faith in Hebrews (Hebrews 11:32)

His name is listed alongside great leaders like Gideon and David.

b) He relied on God’s strength in battle (Judges 4:15)

He understood that victory came from God, not human ability.

c) He led the tribes of Zebulun and Naphtali with courage (Judges 5:18)

He inspired others to fight for Israel’s freedom.

d) His story teaches that faith can overcome fear (Hebrews 11:33-34)

Though he hesitated at first, he later acted in faith.

e) Biblical Example: Peter also struggled with fear but later became a bold preacher (Matthew 14:30-31, Acts 2:14)

5. BARAK PARTNERED WITH DEBORAH IN LEADERSHIP

His story highlights the importance of working together in God’s kingdom.

a) He respected Deborah’s prophetic authority (Judges 4:6)

He recognised her role as God’s messenger.

b) He valued spiritual guidance in battle (Judges 4:8)

He knew that he needed God's presence.

c) He did not allow pride to hinder collaboration (Judges 4:14)

He accepted leadership from a woman without resistance.

d) His teamwork led to Israel’s victory (Judges 5:2)

Cooperation brought success.

e) Biblical Example: Paul worked alongside Priscilla and Aquila in ministry (Romans 16:3-4)

6. STRENGTHS OF BARAK

Despite his hesitation, Barak had notable strengths.

a) He obeyed God’s command after receiving assurance (Judges 4:14)

b) He was a skilled military leader and strategist (Judges 4:10)

c) He recognised the importance of spiritual leadership (Judges 4:6)

d) He led Israel to victory with God’s help (Judges 4:15-16)

e) He is honoured as a man of faith in the New Testament (Hebrews 11:32)