Joshua 2:2

And it was reported to the king of Jericho: "Behold, some men of Israel have come here tonight to spy out the land."

Study Bible

And it was reported to the king of Jericho:
The city of Jericho was a significant Canaanite city, strategically located near the Jordan River. The king of Jericho would have been a local ruler, possibly a vassal under a larger Canaanite confederation. The report reaching the king indicates a well-organized intelligence network within the city, highlighting the tension and fear among the Canaanites due to the Israelites' approach. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God orchestrating events to fulfill His promises to Israel.

“Behold, some men of Israel have come here tonight:
The phrase "some men of Israel" refers to the two spies sent by Joshua, as detailed earlier in the chapter. Their mission was to gather intelligence on Jericho's defenses and the morale of its people. The mention of "tonight" suggests urgency and secrecy, emphasizing the covert nature of their mission. This aligns with the biblical narrative of God using seemingly small and secretive actions to achieve His purposes, as seen in other biblical accounts like Gideon's night attack (Judges 7).

to spy out the land.”
Spying out the land was a common military tactic in ancient times, used to assess the strength and weaknesses of enemy territories. This mission echoes the earlier reconnaissance of Canaan by the twelve spies in Numbers 13, though with a more successful outcome. Theologically, this act of spying can be seen as a step of faith and obedience to God's command to take possession of the land He promised to Abraham and his descendants (Genesis 12:7). The spies' mission foreshadows the eventual conquest of Jericho, demonstrating God's faithfulness in delivering the land to Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King of Jericho
The ruler of the city of Jericho, a significant Canaanite city. His role is crucial as he receives the report about the Israelite spies.

2. Men of Israel
These are the spies sent by Joshua to scout the land, particularly Jericho, as part of Israel's strategy to conquer the Promised Land.

3. Jericho
A fortified city in Canaan, known for its strong walls. It represents the first major obstacle for the Israelites in their conquest of Canaan.

4. Spying Mission
The event where the Israelite spies enter Jericho to gather intelligence, which is a strategic move in the broader context of Israel's military campaign.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Human Affairs
The report reaching the king of Jericho demonstrates God's control over the unfolding events, even in enemy territory.

The Importance of Obedience and Strategy
The spies' mission underscores the need for strategic planning and obedience to God's directives in achieving His purposes.

Faith and Risk
The spies' willingness to enter enemy territory reflects a faith that takes risks for the sake of God's promises.

God's Use of Unlikely Individuals
Rahab, a resident of Jericho, becomes a key figure in the account, illustrating how God can use unexpected people to fulfill His plans.

The Role of Fear and Perception
The king's reaction to the spies' presence shows how fear and perception can influence decisions and actions, both positively and negatively.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the report to the king of Jericho illustrate the theme of God's sovereignty in the book of Joshua?

2. In what ways does the mission of the spies in Joshua 2 compare and contrast with the earlier spying mission in Numbers 13-14?

3. How can we apply the principle of strategic planning and obedience in our personal lives and spiritual journeys?

4. What lessons can we learn from the faith and risk-taking of the Israelite spies, and how can this be applied to modern-day challenges?

5. How does the account of Rahab and the spies encourage us to see the potential for God to use unlikely individuals in His plans?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 13-14
The earlier mission of the twelve spies sent by Moses to scout the Promised Land, highlighting the continuity and change in Israel's approach to conquest.

Hebrews 11:31
Rahab's faith is commended, showing the impact of the spies' mission on individuals within Jericho.

James 2:25
Rahab's actions are cited as an example of faith demonstrated through works, connecting to the account of the spies.