Chapters 16, 17 and 18 of Deuteronomy each introduce a new kind of leader to Israel: judges (ch16), kings (ch17) and prophets (ch18).

It's interesting to note that over the following years these figures did become significant, and in that order.

During the wilderness years Israel was ruled by priests (who we've already heard a lot about); after the conquest of the land the judges came to prominence; the time of judges ended when the Kingdom was established; and as the kings failed (for the most part) to walk with God the prophets arose as spiritual leaders.

It's clearly no coincidence that the New Testament specifically presents Jesus as fulfilling each of these roles: he is the final priest, judge, king and prophet.