The book of Judges can pose many puzzles for readers today: who were the "judges"? Why was this book written, and how does it fit into the biblical narrative? And how can the story it tells--one of bloodshed, intrigue, and rejection of Yahweh's authority--change our understanding of God today?

Deserting the King guides readers through the difficulties that the book of Judges can pose for readers as it traces both the evil and redemption present in Israel's approach to kingship--and, by extension, God. And while examining the book's structure and key themes, author David Beldman draws in stories from his life and the world today, showing how this Old Testament book, in its darkness and heroism, gives us a lens to see God's at work throughout history.

David Beldman is an assistant professor of religion and theology at Redeemer University College, Ancaster, ON, Canada, where he loves opening up the riches of Scripture with undergraduate students. He researches and publishes work on Old Testament narrative and wisdom literature, biblical theology, and hermeneutics. His doctoral research was on the book of Judges, and he is writing a commentary on this book.