Hebrews 11:30

By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the people had marched around them for seven days.

Study Bible

By faith
The phrase "By faith" is a recurring theme throughout Hebrews 11, often referred to as the "Faith Chapter." It emphasizes the centrality of faith in the lives of believers. The Greek word for faith, "pistis," implies trust, conviction, and reliance on God. In the context of Hebrews, faith is not merely intellectual assent but an active trust in God's promises, even when they are not yet visible. This faith is the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). It is a reminder that the Christian life is lived by faith, not by sight, and that faith is the means by which believers receive God's promises.

the walls of Jericho
The "walls of Jericho" refer to the formidable fortifications of the ancient city of Jericho, which was the first city conquered by the Israelites in the Promised Land. Archaeological evidence supports the existence of a walled city at Jericho during the Late Bronze Age, consistent with the biblical account. The walls symbolize human obstacles and challenges that seem insurmountable. In the biblical narrative, these walls were not overcome by military might or human strategy but by divine intervention, illustrating that God's power can bring down any barrier when His people act in faith.

fell down
The phrase "fell down" describes the miraculous collapse of Jericho's walls. The Hebrew root word "naphal" conveys the idea of falling or being overthrown. This event is recorded in Joshua 6, where the Israelites, following God's instructions, marched around the city for seven days, and on the seventh day, the walls fell after the people shouted and the priests blew their trumpets. This miraculous event underscores the power of God to accomplish His purposes and the importance of obedience to His commands. It serves as a testament to the fact that when God is at work, even the most daunting obstacles can be overcome.

after the people had marched around them for seven days
The phrase "after the people had marched around them for seven days" highlights the obedience and perseverance of the Israelites. The number seven in the Bible often signifies completeness or perfection, and the seven-day march around Jericho was a test of faith and patience. The Israelites' obedience to God's seemingly unusual instructions demonstrated their trust in His plan. This act of faith was not passive but involved active participation and endurance. It serves as an encouragement to believers that faith often requires persistence and that God's timing is perfect, even when His methods are beyond human understanding.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jericho
An ancient city in the land of Canaan, known for its fortified walls. It was the first city conquered by the Israelites under Joshua's leadership after crossing the Jordan River.

2. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, who led the people into the Promised Land. He was instrumental in the conquest of Jericho, following God's specific instructions.

3. The Israelites
The people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and brought to the Promised Land.

4. The Walls of Jericho
Massive fortifications that surrounded the city of Jericho, symbolizing a formidable obstacle to the Israelites' conquest of Canaan.

5. The Seven-Day March
The act of faith where the Israelites, following God's command, marched around the city of Jericho once a day for six days and seven times on the seventh day, leading to the miraculous collapse of the walls.

Teaching Points

Faith in Action
The Israelites' obedience to God's unconventional battle plan demonstrates that faith often requires action, even when the outcome is unseen or seems impossible.

Obedience to God's Instructions
The fall of Jericho underscores the importance of following God's specific instructions, trusting in His wisdom and timing.

God's Sovereignty and Power
The miraculous collapse of the walls highlights God's sovereignty and power over human obstacles, encouraging believers to trust in His ability to overcome challenges.

Perseverance in Faith
The seven-day march teaches the value of perseverance and patience in faith, as God's promises may require sustained effort and trust.

Community of Faith
The collective faith and obedience of the Israelites remind us of the strength found in a community united in purpose and trust in God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Jericho challenge our understanding of faith and obedience in our personal lives?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of "faith in action" to overcome obstacles we face today?

3. How does the account of Jericho encourage us to trust in God's timing and methods, even when they seem unconventional?

4. What are some "walls" or strongholds in our lives that require God's intervention, and how can we actively participate in their demolition through faith?

5. How can we foster a community of faith that supports and encourages collective obedience to God's instructions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 6
This chapter provides the detailed account of the fall of Jericho, including God's instructions to Joshua and the Israelites' obedience, which resulted in the miraculous victory.

Hebrews 11:1
This verse defines faith as the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen, which is exemplified in the Israelites' actions at Jericho.

2 Corinthians 10:4
This passage speaks about the spiritual nature of our warfare and the divine power to demolish strongholds, paralleling the spiritual victory seen in the fall of Jericho.