◄ Joshua 2 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary Rahab Welcomes the Spies Joshua 2 underscores the boundless grace of God, extending even to the unlikely person of Rahab. Her faith and bravery, in the face of grave danger, emphasizes that anyone can partake in God's plans, no matter their past. Her story inspires courage, conviction, and the belief that God's promises will always be fulfilled. Section: The Spies' Arrival in Jericho (Verses 1-7) Joshua sends two spies to Jericho, who find refuge in Rahab's house. However, the king of Jericho hears of their presence and sends soldiers to find them. Rahab hides the spies and misdirects the soldiers, claiming the spies left the city before the gates closed for the night. Section: Rahab's Faith and Agreement (Verses 8-14) After ensuring the spies' safety, Rahab acknowledges her belief in the God of Israel, having heard about the miracles performed in Egypt and the recent victory over the Amorites. She requests the spies to spare her and her family's lives when they conquer the city. Moved by her faith and courage, the spies agree to her request. Section: The Escape and The Promise (Verses 15-24) Rahab helps the spies escape by lowering them from her window with a scarlet cord. They instruct her to tie the same cord in her window as a sign for the Israelites to spare her household. The spies return to Joshua, reporting the fear within the city and the readiness for an Israelite conquest. Joshua Chapter 2 focuses on the story of Rahab, a woman from Jericho who bravely aids the spies sent by Joshua. As the Israelites prepare to conquer the city, Rahab's faith in the God of Israel and her courage significantly influence the unfolding events, demonstrating that divine providence often works through unexpected channels. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty and Plan Despite Rahab's background, God uses her to protect the Israelite spies, demonstrating His ability to work through anyone to accomplish His purposes. But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them (Joshua 2:4). Faith in Action Rahab's faith is evident in her actions. She not only hides the spies but also expresses her belief in the God of Israel. I know that the LORD has given you this land (Joshua 2:9). Covenant and Promise Rahab's agreement with the spies highlights the importance of covenant and trust. Now then, please swear to me by the LORD that you will show kindness to my family (Joshua 2:12). Redemption and Inclusion Rahab's story foreshadows the inclusion of Gentiles in God's redemptive plan. Her faith leads to her being grafted into the lineage of Christ (Matthew 1:5). Practical Applications Trust in God's Plan Like Rahab, we should trust that God can use us, regardless of our past, to fulfill His purposes. Act on Your Faith Rahab's story encourages us to put our faith into action, even when it involves risk. Seek God's Mercy Rahab's plea for mercy reminds us to seek God's grace and protection for ourselves and our loved ones. Embrace Redemption No matter our background, God offers redemption and a place in His family through faith. People 1. Joshua Joshua is the leader of the Israelites after Moses. He sends two spies to scout the land of Jericho. The Berean Standard Bible begins the chapter with, "Then Joshua son of Nun secretly sent two spies from Shittim" (Joshua 2:1). 2. Two Spies These are the unnamed Israelite men sent by Joshua to explore Jericho. They are central to the narrative as they interact with Rahab and gather intelligence on the city. The Hebrew term for spies, "רָגַל" (ragal), implies their role as scouts or explorers. 3. Rahab Rahab is a Canaanite woman who lives in Jericho. She is described as a prostitute and plays a crucial role by hiding the spies and helping them escape. Her faith and actions are significant, as noted in Joshua 2:4, "But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them." 4. King of Jericho The king is the ruler of Jericho who learns about the presence of the Israelite spies and sends orders to Rahab to bring them out. His role is mentioned in Joshua 2:2-3, "So the king of Jericho sent this message to Rahab: 'Bring out the men who came to you and entered your house, for they have come to spy out the whole land.'" Places 1. Shittim This is the location where the Israelites were encamped before Joshua sent the spies to Jericho. The Hebrew root for Shittim is "שִׁטִּים" (Shittim), which refers to the acacia trees that were abundant in the area. It is significant as the last encampment of the Israelites before crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land. 2. Jericho This is the city to which Joshua sent the two spies. Jericho is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world and is located near the Jordan River. In Hebrew, Jericho is "יְרִיחוֹ" (Yeriho), which may be related to the word for "fragrance" or "moon." It is significant as the first city conquered by the Israelites in their campaign to take the Promised Land. 3. The House of Rahab While not a separate geographical location, Rahab's house is a significant place within Jericho. It is described as being on the city wall, which allowed the spies to escape. Rahab's house becomes a place of refuge and a pivotal location in the narrative, highlighting her role in aiding the Israelite spies. 4. The Hill Country After leaving Rahab's house, the spies hide in the hill country for three days to avoid capture. The Hebrew term for hill country is "הָהָר" (ha-har), which refers to the mountainous regions surrounding Jericho. This area provided natural cover and protection for the spies during their escape. Events 1. Joshua Sends Spies to Jericho Joshua, the son of Nun, secretly sends two spies from Shittim to scout the land, especially Jericho. This action is strategic for the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. The Hebrew root for "spy" (רָגַל, ragal) implies a careful and secretive exploration. 2. Spies Lodge with Rahab The spies enter Jericho and lodge at the house of Rahab, a prostitute. This choice of lodging is significant as it provides a cover for their mission. Rahab's house is located on the city wall, which later becomes crucial for their escape. 3. King of Jericho Seeks the Spies The king of Jericho is informed of the spies' presence and sends orders to Rahab to bring them out. This reflects the heightened alertness and fear among the Canaanites regarding the Israelites. 4. Rahab Hides the Spies Rahab hides the spies under stalks of flax on her roof and misleads the king's men by saying the spies had already left the city. Her actions demonstrate her faith and allegiance to the God of Israel. 5. Rahab's Declaration of Faith Rahab acknowledges the LORD's sovereignty, saying, "I know that the LORD has given you this land" (Joshua 2:9). Her declaration is a pivotal moment, showing her belief in the God of Israel over the gods of Canaan. 6. Rahab's Request for Kindness Rahab requests that the spies show kindness to her family in return for her help, using the Hebrew word חֶסֶד (chesed), which denotes loyal love or covenant faithfulness. 7. The Spies' Oath to Rahab The spies agree to spare Rahab and her family, binding themselves with an oath. They instruct her to tie a scarlet cord in her window as a sign, reminiscent of the Passover blood on the doorposts. 8. Spies Escape to the Hills Rahab helps the spies escape by letting them down through a window with a rope. They flee to the hills and hide for three days, ensuring their safety from the king's men. 9. Spies Report to Joshua After safely returning, the spies report to Joshua, affirming that "the LORD has surely delivered the entire land into our hands" (Joshua 2:24). Their report strengthens the resolve of the Israelites to proceed with their conquest. Connections to Additional Scriptures Hebrews 11:31 By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies in peace, did not perish with those who were disobedient. James 2:25 In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute justified by her actions when she welcomed the spies and sent them off on another route? Matthew 1:5 Rahab is listed in the genealogy of Jesus, highlighting her inclusion in God's redemptive plan. Prayer Points Thank God for His Sovereignty Praise God for His ability to use anyone for His purposes, regardless of their past. Pray for Faith and Courage Ask God to strengthen your faith and give you the courage to act on it, even in challenging situations. Seek God's Mercy and Protection Pray for God's mercy and protection over you and your family, just as Rahab did. Embrace Redemption Thank God for the redemption offered through Jesus Christ and pray for the inclusion of all people in His family. Bible Study Questions 1. How do you perceive Rahab's character, given her profession and actions in Joshua 2? 2. How does Rahab's faith compare to your own? 3. Rahab lied to protect the spies. Is it justifiable to lie in certain situations? Why or why not? 4. How does Rahab's understanding of God influence her decisions? 5. How can you apply Rahab's courage in your life when facing difficult situations? 6. Discuss the significance of the scarlet cord in the story. What does it symbolize? 7. How does this chapter illustrate God's mercy and redemption? 8. What role does loyalty play in the narrative of Joshua 2? 9. How do the actions of the spies reflect their trust in God? 10. How can Rahab’s act of loyalty and faith be a model in your relationships? 11. Can you identify a moment in your life when you took a risk for your faith, like Rahab did? 12. How can this story of divine providence encourage you in times of uncertainty? 13. How does the theme of redemption resonate in your personal life? 14. How did Rahab’s faith impact her future and her family’s future? 15. How do you see God’s hand at work in the strategy of conquering Jericho? 16. How might this story inspire you to act with courage in your current circumstances? 17. Discuss how Rahab's story sheds light on the nature of true faith. 18. How can the actions of Rahab serve as a lesson for you when facing fear? 19. How would you handle a situation where you had to choose between following orders and doing what you believe is right? 20. What can you learn from Rahab about living in a society that does not acknowledge your faith? Topics 1. Spies Sent to Jericho Joshua sends two men as spies to scout the land, especially Jericho. This mission is crucial for the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. The Hebrew word for "spy" (רָגַל, ragal) implies a careful and secretive exploration. 2. Rahab's Shelter The spies lodge at the house of Rahab, a prostitute. Rahab's house is strategically located on the city wall, which plays a significant role in the narrative. Her actions demonstrate a pivotal moment of faith and protection for the spies. 3. King of Jericho's Inquiry The king of Jericho learns of the spies' presence and sends orders to Rahab to bring them out. This highlights the tension and danger the spies face in enemy territory. 4. Rahab's Deception and Faith Rahab hides the spies and deceives the king's men, claiming the spies had already left. Her actions are motivated by her belief in the God of Israel, as she acknowledges His power and the fear He has instilled in the land. The Hebrew root for "faith" (אֱמוּנָה, emunah) underscores her trust and allegiance to God. 5. Rahab's Confession of Faith Rahab confesses her belief in the LORD, saying, "For the LORD your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below" (Joshua 2:11). This confession is significant as it marks her recognition of God's sovereignty. 6. The Oath of Protection Rahab requests protection for her family in exchange for her help. The spies agree, binding themselves with an oath. The Hebrew word for "oath" (שְׁבוּעָה, shevuah) indicates a solemn promise, emphasizing the seriousness of their agreement. 7. The Scarlet Cord Rahab is instructed to tie a scarlet cord in her window as a sign for her protection. The scarlet cord symbolizes safety and redemption, reminiscent of the Passover blood in Exodus. 8. Escape and Return The spies escape to the hills and later return to Joshua, reporting all that had happened. Their successful mission and the information they bring back are crucial for Israel's strategy in conquering Jericho. Themes 1. Divine Providence and Guidance The theme of divine providence is evident as God orchestrates events for the Israelites' benefit. Rahab's encounter with the spies is not coincidental but part of God's plan. The Hebrew root for "providence" (השגחה, hashgachah) implies God's active involvement in the world. Joshua 2:1 states, "Then Joshua son of Nun secretly sent two spies from Shittim, saying, 'Go, view the land, especially Jericho.'" 2. Faith and Obedience Rahab's faith in the God of Israel leads her to protect the spies, demonstrating her belief in God's power and promises. Her actions reflect the Hebrew concept of "emunah" (אמונה), meaning faithfulness or steadfastness. Joshua 2:11 highlights her faith: "When we heard this, our hearts melted and everyone’s courage failed because of you, for the LORD your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below." 3. Redemption and Inclusion Rahab, a Canaanite and a prostitute, is redeemed and included in the lineage of Israel due to her faith and actions. This theme underscores the inclusivity of God's grace. The Hebrew word "ga'al" (גאל), meaning to redeem, is relevant here. Joshua 2:12-13 shows Rahab seeking mercy: "Now therefore, please swear to me by the LORD that you will show kindness to my family, because I have shown kindness to you." 4. Covenant and Promise The spies make a covenant with Rahab, promising her safety in exchange for her help. This reflects the Hebrew concept of "berit" (ברית), meaning covenant. Joshua 2:14 records this agreement: "Our lives for your lives! the men assured her. 'If you do not report our mission, we will show you kindness and faithfulness when the LORD gives us the land.'" 5. God's Sovereignty Over Nations The fear of the LORD among the inhabitants of Jericho demonstrates God's sovereignty over all nations. The Hebrew root "mashal" (משל), meaning to rule or have dominion, is relevant. Joshua 2:9 captures this fear: "I know that the LORD has given you this land and that the fear of you has fallen upon us, so that all who live in the land are melting in fear of you." 6. Protection and Deliverance The theme of protection is evident as God ensures the spies' safe return. Rahab's house, marked by a scarlet cord, symbolizes deliverance. The Hebrew word "yasha" (ישע), meaning to save or deliver, is pertinent. Joshua 2:18-19 describes the sign of protection: "Unless, when we enter the land, you have tied this scarlet cord in the window through which you let us down, and unless you have brought your father and mother, your brothers, and all your family into your house." Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions