The Fall of Jericho: Obedience and Victory through Faith

Joshua 6 recounts a tale of triumph that emerges from obedience and steadfast faith in God. It serves as a powerful reminder that even the most formidable challenges can crumble before unwavering faith. As we encounter our own 'walls of Jericho,' let us remember to trust in God's plan, obey His commands, and hold fast to our faith.

God's Instructions for the Siege (Verses 1-5)

God provides Joshua with specific instructions on how to besiege Jericho. The Israelites are to march around the city once a day for six days, and seven times on the seventh day, with the priests blowing trumpets of rams' horns.

The March around Jericho (Verses 6-14)

Joshua commands the people to proceed as instructed by God. For six days, the Israelites march around Jericho, the Ark of the Covenant leading the way and the priests blowing the trumpets.

The Fall of Jericho (Verses 15-21)

On the seventh day, after marching around the city seven times, the priests blow the trumpets, the people shout, and the walls of Jericho collapse. The Israelites enter the city and destroy everything, sparing only Rahab and her family.

Rahab's Salvation (Verses 22-25)

Joshua sends two men to rescue Rahab and her family in acknowledgment of her help. They bring Rahab, her family, and all they have, out of the city. Rahab lives among the Israelites to this day.

Joshua's Curse on Jericho (Verses 26-27)

Following the destruction, Joshua pronounces a curse on anyone who would dare to rebuild Jericho. Joshua's fame spreads throughout the land.

In Joshua Chapter 6, we witness the miraculous fall of Jericho, one of the most powerful and memorable events in the Old Testament. Led by Joshua, the Israelites demonstrate their faith and obedience, and through God's intervention, the seemingly impregnable city walls collapse.

1. Faith and Obedience
2. Divine Intervention
3. God's Power and Justice
4. The Consequences of Disobedience1. The Siege and Fall of Jericho
2. The Role of the Ark of the Covenant
3. Rahab's Salvation
4. Joshua's Curse on Jericho1. Joshua
2. The Israelites
3. Rahab
4. The inhabitants of Jericho1. The City of Jericho
2. The Promised Land (Canaan)

1. What does the shutting up of Jericho symbolize about the state of the city and its fear of the Israelites?

2. In the context of the story, what significance do the numbers seven and six hold?

3. How can we interpret the LORD's detailed strategy to Joshua about taking the city?

4. How does this passage illustrate the concept of obedience and trust in God, even when His commands might seem unusual or impractical?

5. How does the marching in silence until the final day reflect the discipline and obedience of the Israelites? How can this apply to us today when following God's directions?

6. What does the action of the people giving a mighty shout teach us about unity and collective faith in God's promises?

7. How does the narrative highlight the importance of God's precise instructions? How can we apply this to our lives?

8. Why did Joshua command the people not to shout or even speak until he told them to?

9. What can we learn from Rahab's situation? How did her actions of faith and loyalty impact her future?

10. How does this event reflect the belief in the holy destruction or devotion of items to God? How does this translate into today's perspective?

11. How do you interpret the heavy curse Joshua places on the rebuilding of Jericho? What do you think this says about remembering and respecting God's judgment?

12. How can the preservation of Rahab and her family amidst the destruction of Jericho be viewed as a symbol of grace and redemption?

13. What lessons can we learn from the act of sparing Rahab and her family, but destroying everything else in Jericho?

14. Why was it important for the silver, gold, bronze, and iron to be placed in the treasury of the LORD's house?

15. What significance does Joshua's fame spreading throughout the land hold in the context of the Israelites' journey and mission?

16. Why was the specific instruction given to avoid the things devoted to destruction? What implications might this hold for us today?

17. Why do you think the text emphasizes the complete destruction of Jericho, including men, women, and animals?

18. How does the fate of Jericho reflect on the concept of divine justice and judgment?

19. How can the devotion of items to the LORD's treasury be seen as a form of giving back or acknowledging God's sovereignty?

20. How can we apply the principle of obedience as seen in this passage to the modern day situations where God's instructions might not align with our understanding or expectations?