Joshua 2:12

Now therefore, please swear to me by the LORD that you will indeed show kindness to my family, because I showed kindness to you. Give me a sure sign

Study Bible

Now therefore, please swear to me by the LORD
Rahab's request for an oath "by the LORD" indicates her recognition of the God of Israel's supreme authority. This reflects the cultural practice of invoking a deity to guarantee the truthfulness and binding nature of an oath. Rahab's acknowledgment of the LORD suggests her faith in the God of Israel, contrasting with the Canaanite gods of her people. This moment foreshadows the inclusion of Gentiles into God's covenant community, as seen in the New Testament with figures like Cornelius in Acts 10.

that you will indeed show kindness to my family
The term "kindness" here is translated from the Hebrew word "hesed," which denotes loyal love or covenant faithfulness. Rahab's plea for her family's safety highlights the importance of familial bonds in ancient Near Eastern culture. This request for "hesed" mirrors God's covenantal love for Israel and prefigures the New Testament concept of grace extended to all believers, regardless of their background.

because I showed kindness to you
Rahab's actions in hiding the spies demonstrate her faith and allegiance to the God of Israel, despite her Canaanite background. Her kindness is a practical expression of her faith, aligning with James 2:25, which commends her for her works. This reciprocal kindness reflects the biblical principle of sowing and reaping, as seen in Galatians 6:7-9, and underscores the importance of faith being accompanied by action.

Give me a sure sign
Rahab's request for a "sure sign" indicates her desire for assurance and security, a common practice in ancient covenants where signs or tokens were used to confirm agreements. This request can be seen as a precursor to the New Testament sacraments, such as baptism and communion, which serve as signs and seals of God's promises to believers. The scarlet cord later given to Rahab becomes a symbol of her faith and the salvation of her household, reminiscent of the Passover blood in Exodus 12, which protected the Israelites from judgment.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rahab
A Canaanite woman living in Jericho, known for her occupation as a prostitute. She plays a crucial role in aiding the Israelite spies.

2. Israelite Spies
Two men sent by Joshua to scout the land of Jericho. They are the recipients of Rahab's plea for kindness.

3. Jericho
A fortified city in Canaan, significant as the first city conquered by the Israelites under Joshua's leadership.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, invoked by Rahab as she seeks protection for her family.

5. The Covenant of Kindness
Rahab's request for a reciprocal act of kindness, rooted in the Hebrew concept of "chesed," which implies loyalty and faithfulness.

Teaching Points

Faith in Action
Rahab's account exemplifies how genuine faith is demonstrated through courageous actions. Her belief in the God of Israel led her to risk her life for the spies.

The Power of Kindness
The reciprocal nature of kindness, as seen in Rahab's request, underscores the biblical principle of sowing and reaping. Acts of kindness can lead to unexpected blessings.

God's Inclusive Plan
Rahab's inclusion in the lineage of Jesus (Matthew 1:5) illustrates God's redemptive plan for all people, regardless of their past or background.

The Importance of Covenants
Rahab's plea for a covenant of kindness reflects the biblical theme of covenants as binding agreements that require faithfulness and loyalty.

Trust in God's Promises
Rahab's reliance on a "sure sign" from the spies mirrors the believer's trust in God's promises for protection and salvation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rahab's faith challenge us to act courageously in our own lives, even when it involves risk?

2. In what ways can we show kindness to others, and how might this reflect God's kindness to us?

3. How does Rahab's account encourage us to view our past in light of God's redemptive power?

4. What are some modern-day "covenants" or commitments we can make to demonstrate our faithfulness to God and others?

5. How can we trust in God's promises when facing uncertain or dangerous situations, as Rahab did?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 11:31
Rahab is commended for her faith, highlighting her belief in the God of Israel and her actions in protecting the spies.

James 2:25
Rahab's works are cited as evidence of her faith, demonstrating the importance of actions accompanying belief.

Exodus 12:13
The concept of a "sign" for protection, as seen in the Passover, parallels Rahab's request for a sure sign of safety.

Genesis 12:3
The promise to Abraham that all nations would be blessed through him, foreshadowing the inclusion of Gentiles like Rahab in God's plan.