Joshua 22:20

Was not Achan son of Zerah unfaithful regarding what was set apart for destruction, bringing wrath upon the whole congregation of Israel? Yet it was not only Achan who perished because of his sin!'"

Study Bible

Was not Achan son of Zerah
This phrase introduces Achan, a significant figure whose actions had profound consequences for Israel. Achan, whose name in Hebrew means "troubler," was a member of the tribe of Judah. His lineage, "son of Zerah," connects him to the broader narrative of Israel's history, emphasizing the importance of family and tribal identity in the Old Testament. The mention of Achan serves as a reminder of the personal responsibility each individual holds within the community of God's people.

unfaithful regarding what was set apart for destruction
The term "unfaithful" in Hebrew is "ma'al," which conveys a sense of treachery or betrayal. Achan's sin was not merely a personal failing but a breach of covenant with God. The "what was set apart for destruction" refers to the devoted things from Jericho, which were to be destroyed or given to the Lord as an offering. Achan's taking of these items was a direct violation of God's command, highlighting the seriousness of disobedience and the sacredness of God's instructions.

and did not wrath fall on the whole congregation of Israel?
The "wrath" mentioned here is God's righteous anger, which in Hebrew is "aph," often depicted as a burning or kindled anger. This wrath affected the "whole congregation of Israel," illustrating the communal nature of sin and its consequences. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the actions of one could bring repercussions upon the entire community, underscoring the interconnectedness of the people of God and the importance of collective holiness and obedience.

He was not the only one who perished because of his sin
This phrase serves as a sobering reminder of the far-reaching impact of sin. The Hebrew word for "perished" is "abad," meaning to be lost or destroyed. Achan's sin led to the defeat of Israel at Ai and the loss of life among the Israelites. This highlights the biblical principle that sin, while personal, often has communal consequences. It serves as a warning to the faithful about the seriousness of sin and the importance of living in accordance with God's will to avoid bringing harm to oneself and others.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Achan
A member of the tribe of Judah who sinned by taking forbidden items during the conquest of Jericho, leading to Israel's defeat at Ai.

2. Zerah
Achan's father, mentioned to trace Achan's lineage within the tribe of Judah.

3. Israel
The nation chosen by God, which suffered consequences due to Achan's sin.

4. Jericho
The city whose spoils were devoted to destruction, from which Achan took forbidden items.

5. Ai
The city where Israel faced defeat due to Achan's sin, highlighting the communal impact of individual disobedience.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
Achan's account illustrates that sin is not just a personal matter but can have communal consequences. We must be vigilant in our personal holiness.

Corporate Responsibility
The entire nation of Israel suffered due to Achan's sin, reminding us that our actions can impact our community, family, and church.

Obedience to God's Commands
The command to destroy everything in Jericho was clear. Disobedience, even in seemingly small matters, can lead to significant consequences.

Repentance and Restoration
While Achan's account ends tragically, it serves as a warning and a call to repentance. God desires restoration and purity among His people.

Guarding Against Temptation
Achan's downfall began with coveting. We must guard our hearts against desires that lead us away from God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Achan's sin and its consequences reflect the communal nature of sin within the body of Christ today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are obedient to God's commands, even in areas that seem insignificant?

3. How can the church effectively address sin within its community while maintaining a spirit of grace and restoration?

4. What steps can we take to guard our hearts against covetousness and other temptations that lead us away from God's will?

5. How does understanding the impact of Achan's sin help us appreciate the importance of repentance and the grace offered through Jesus Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 7
Provides the full account of Achan's sin, the subsequent defeat at Ai, and the process of identifying and punishing Achan.

1 Corinthians 5
Discusses the impact of sin within a community and the need for purity within the church.

Romans 5:12-19
Explores the concept of one man's sin affecting many, drawing a parallel between Adam's sin and Achan's.

Hebrews 12:15
Warns against allowing a "root of bitterness" to grow, which can defile many, similar to how Achan's sin affected Israel.

Deuteronomy 13:17
Emphasizes the importance of destroying what is devoted to destruction to avoid bringing sin into the community.