Injustice in Twelve Pieces: Sexual Violence in the Bible | Chilliwack Campus

When we read our text, we're jumping into the middle of a story.

So let me just explain where we're at before we read it together.

In the book of Judges, this man, a Levite, is traveling.

And among the various people he's traveling with, he has his concubine.

And they come into a strange town on his journey to his hometown.

And they need somewhere to stay for the night.

And an old man in the town offers accommodations.

And so this Levite and his concubine stay at this man's house.

And our text picks up in Judges chapter 19. verses 22 to 30, as night falls on this town.

So if you're able, I'd ask you to stand with me as we read God's word together.

This is Judges chapter 19, verses 22 to 30.

As they were making their hearts merry, behold, the men of the city, worthless fellows, surrounded the house, beating on the door.

And they said to the old man, the master of the house, bring out the man who came into your house that we may know him.

And the man, the master of the house, went out to them and said to them, No, my brothers, do not act so wickedly.

Since this man has come into my house, do not do this vile thing.

Behold, here are my virgin daughter and his concubine.

Let me bring them out now.

Violate them and do with them what seems good to you.

But against this man, do not do this outrageous thing.

But the men would not listen to him.

So the man seized his concubine and made her go out to them.

And they knew her and abused her all night until the morning.

And as the dawn began to break, they let her go.

And as morning appeared, the woman came and fell down at the door of the man's house where her master was until it was light.

And her master rose up in the morning.