Joshua 2:1

Then Joshua son of Nun secretly sent two spies from Shittim, saying, "Go, inspect the land, especially Jericho." So they went and entered the house of a prostitute named Rahab and stayed there.

Study Bible

Then Joshua son of Nun
Joshua, the leader of the Israelites after Moses, is a central figure in the conquest of Canaan. His name means "The LORD is salvation," which is significant as he leads the people into the Promised Land, a type of Christ leading believers into spiritual rest. Joshua is from the tribe of Ephraim and was one of the original twelve spies sent by Moses (Numbers 13:8).

secretly sent two spies from Shittim
Shittim, located east of the Jordan River, was the Israelites' last encampment before entering Canaan. The secrecy of the mission underscores the strategic and cautious approach Joshua took, learning from Moses' earlier experience with the twelve spies. This action reflects a blend of faith and prudence, as Joshua seeks to understand the land's challenges.

saying, “Go, inspect the land, especially Jericho.”
Jericho was a fortified city and a key strategic target in the conquest of Canaan. Its location was crucial as it controlled access to the central highlands. The focus on Jericho highlights its importance as the first major obstacle in the Israelites' path. The command to inspect the land shows Joshua's reliance on intelligence and preparation.

So they went and entered the house of a prostitute named Rahab
Rahab's house, likely an inn or tavern, was a place where travelers could stay, making it a strategic choice for the spies to gather information without arousing suspicion. Rahab's profession and her role in the narrative highlight God's grace and the inclusion of Gentiles in His plan. Rahab is later mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:5) and praised for her faith in Hebrews 11:31.

and stayed there
The spies' stay at Rahab's house sets the stage for her pivotal role in aiding the Israelites. This act of staying signifies a divine appointment, as Rahab's faith and actions lead to her and her family's salvation. Her story foreshadows the inclusion of all nations in God's redemptive plan, as seen in the New Testament.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with leading them into the Promised Land. His name in Hebrew, "Yehoshua," means "The LORD is salvation."

2. Two Spies
Unnamed men sent by Joshua to scout the land of Canaan, particularly Jericho. Their mission was crucial for the Israelites' strategy in conquering the land.

3. Shittim
The location from which the spies were sent. It was the last encampment of the Israelites before crossing the Jordan River into Canaan.

4. Jericho
A fortified city in Canaan, significant for its strategic location. It was the first city the Israelites were to conquer in their campaign to take the Promised Land.

5. Rahab
A Canaanite woman described as a prostitute. Her house was strategically located on the city wall, making it a suitable place for the spies to gather intelligence and plan their escape.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience and Strategy
Joshua's decision to send spies demonstrates the importance of preparation and strategy in fulfilling God's commands. Believers are encouraged to seek God's guidance and plan wisely in their endeavors.

God's Sovereignty and Inclusion
Rahab's inclusion in the account shows God's sovereignty in using unexpected people to fulfill His purposes. It reminds us that God can use anyone, regardless of their past, for His glory.

Faith in Action
Rahab's actions exemplify faith in action. Her willingness to help the spies at great personal risk demonstrates the kind of faith that leads to salvation and transformation.

The Role of Courage
Both the spies and Rahab exhibited courage. The spies risked their lives to gather intelligence, and Rahab risked hers to protect them. Courage is often required to follow God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Joshua's leadership in sending the spies, and how can we apply strategic planning in our spiritual lives?

2. How does Rahab's account challenge our perceptions of who God can use for His purposes?

3. In what ways does Rahab's faith inspire us to take bold actions in our own faith journey?

4. How does the account of the spies and Rahab illustrate the theme of God's grace and redemption throughout the Bible?

5. How can we demonstrate courage in our faith, similar to the spies and Rahab, in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 11:31
This verse highlights Rahab's faith, which led to her being spared during the destruction 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 relationship between faith and works.

Matthew 1:5
Rahab is listed in the genealogy of Jesus, showing God's grace and the inclusion of Gentiles in His redemptive plan.