Joshua 2:3

So the king of Jericho sent to Rahab and said, "Bring out the men who came to you and entered your house, for they have come to spy out the whole land."

Study Bible

So the king of Jericho
The mention of the "king of Jericho" situates this narrative within a historical and political context. Jericho was a fortified city, one of the oldest known in the world, strategically located in the Jordan Valley. The king's authority and concern reflect the city's significance and the threat perceived from the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "king" (מֶלֶךְ, melek) denotes a ruler with sovereign power, emphasizing the gravity of the situation as the king himself is involved.

sent word to Rahab
Rahab, a Canaanite woman, plays a pivotal role in this narrative. Her mention here is significant, as it highlights God's use of unexpected individuals to fulfill His purposes. The phrase "sent word" indicates a formal communication, suggesting the urgency and seriousness of the king's command. Rahab's inclusion in the biblical narrative underscores themes of redemption and divine providence, as she later becomes an ancestor of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5).

Bring out the men
The king's command to "bring out the men" reflects the immediate threat perceived by the city of Jericho. The Hebrew verb used here (יָצָא, yatsa) means to go out or bring forth, indicating a demand for action. This phrase sets the stage for Rahab's courageous decision to protect the spies, demonstrating her faith and aligning herself with God's people.

who came to you and entered your house
This phrase highlights the clandestine nature of the spies' mission. The king's knowledge of their presence suggests a well-organized intelligence network within Jericho. The act of entering Rahab's house signifies a breach of security, yet it also becomes a place of refuge and divine intervention. The house, in biblical symbolism, often represents a place of safety and covenant, foreshadowing Rahab's role in the salvation narrative.

for they have come to spy out the whole land
The purpose of the spies' mission is explicitly stated here: to "spy out the whole land." The Hebrew root for "spy" (רָגַל, ragal) implies careful observation and reconnaissance. This mission is part of God's larger plan to give the Israelites the Promised Land. The phrase underscores the tension between human plans and divine sovereignty, as God orchestrates events to fulfill His promises to Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The King of Jericho
The ruler of the city of Jericho, a Canaanite city-state. His authority and concern for the security of his city are evident as he seeks to capture the Israelite spies.

2. Rahab
A resident of Jericho, known as a harlot, who plays a crucial role in the Israelite spies' mission. Her actions demonstrate faith and courage.

3. The Spies
Two Israelite men sent by Joshua to scout the land, especially Jericho, as part of Israel's preparation to enter the Promised Land.

4. Jericho
A fortified city in Canaan, significant for its strategic location and as the first city to be conquered by the Israelites under Joshua's leadership.

5. The Mission
The espionage mission undertaken by the Israelite spies to gather intelligence on Jericho, which is pivotal for Israel's conquest of Canaan.

Teaching Points

Faith in Action
Rahab's account exemplifies how faith can lead to courageous actions. Despite her background, her faith in the God of Israel prompted her to protect the spies, showing that God can use anyone for His purposes.

God's Sovereignty
The account demonstrates God's control over events. The spies' encounter with Rahab was not by chance but part of God's plan to deliver Jericho into Israel's hands.

The Role of Risk in Faith
Rahab took significant risks by hiding the spies. This teaches us that faith often requires stepping out of our comfort zones and trusting God with the outcomes.

Redemption and Transformation
Rahab's inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1) shows God's redemptive power and willingness to transform lives, regardless of past sins.

Obedience to God's Mission
The spies' mission underscores the importance of obedience to God's directives, even when the path is fraught with danger and uncertainty.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rahab's faith challenge our understanding of who can be used by God for His purposes?

2. In what ways does the account of Rahab and the spies illustrate the concept of faith being accompanied by works?

3. How can we apply the principle of taking risks for our faith in our daily lives?

4. What does Rahab's transformation and inclusion in the lineage of Jesus teach us about God's grace and redemption?

5. How can we discern and obey God's mission for us, even when it involves stepping into unknown or dangerous situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 11:31
This verse highlights Rahab's faith, which led to her being spared during the fall of Jericho. It connects her actions to the broader theme of faith in action.

James 2:25
This passage emphasizes Rahab's justification by works when she received the spies and sent them out another way, illustrating the harmony of faith and works.

Joshua 6
The fall of Jericho, where Rahab's faith and actions lead to her and her family's salvation, fulfilling the promise made by the spies.