Joshua 2:4

But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them. So she said, "Yes, the men did come to me, but I did not know where they had come from.

Study Bible

But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them.
Rahab, a resident of Jericho, took a significant risk by hiding the Israelite spies. This act of protection is pivotal in the narrative, demonstrating her faith and aligning her with God's purposes. In the cultural context of ancient Near Eastern societies, hospitality was a sacred duty, but Rahab's actions went beyond mere hospitality, indicating a recognition of the God of Israel's power. Her actions prefigure the concept of faith leading to righteousness, as later highlighted in Hebrews 11:31 and James 2:25, where Rahab is commended for her faith and works.

So she said, “Yes, the men did come to me,
Rahab's acknowledgment of the men's presence is a strategic move. In the context of ancient warfare and espionage, admitting the presence of foreign spies could have been dangerous. However, Rahab's admission is part of her calculated plan to protect them. This reflects her wisdom and courage, qualities that are often celebrated in biblical narratives. Her actions can be seen as a type of Christ, who provides refuge and protection to those who seek Him.

but I did not know where they had come from.
Rahab's statement is a half-truth, a common narrative device in biblical stories where characters navigate complex moral situations. This reflects the tension between truth and survival in a hostile environment. Her claim of ignorance about the spies' origins serves to mislead the king's men, protecting the spies and furthering God's plan for Israel. This moment underscores the theme of divine providence, where God uses unexpected individuals and means to accomplish His purposes, as seen throughout the biblical narrative.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rahab
A Canaanite woman living in Jericho, known for her occupation as a prostitute. She plays a crucial role in the Israelite spies' mission by hiding them and later helping them escape.

2. The Two Spies
Sent by Joshua to scout the land of Jericho. Their mission is to gather intelligence on the city and its defenses.

3. Jericho
A fortified city in Canaan, significant for being the first city conquered by the Israelites as they entered the Promised Land.

4. The King of Jericho
Represents the authority of Jericho, who seeks to capture the spies upon learning of their presence.

5. The Event of Hiding
Rahab's act of hiding the spies is a pivotal moment that demonstrates her faith and allegiance to the God of Israel over her own people.

Teaching Points

Faith in Action
Rahab's decision to hide the spies demonstrates that true faith often requires taking risks and making difficult choices. Her actions show that faith is not passive but active and courageous.

God's Sovereignty and Grace
Rahab, a non-Israelite and a woman of questionable reputation, is used by God to fulfill His purposes. This highlights God's sovereignty and grace, showing that He can use anyone, regardless of their past, for His glory.

The Importance of Truth and Deception
Rahab's lie to protect the spies raises questions about the morality of deception in certain situations. It invites believers to consider the complexities of truth-telling and the higher moral law of protecting life.

Allegiance to God Over Culture
Rahab's choice to side with the God of Israel over her own people challenges believers to consider where their ultimate allegiance lies, especially when cultural norms conflict with God's commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rahab's account challenge our understanding of who God can use for His purposes? Reflect on other biblical examples where God used unlikely individuals.

2. In what ways does Rahab's faith inspire you to take bold actions in your own life? Consider situations where you might need to act courageously for your faith.

3. How do Rahab's actions illustrate the concept of faith being demonstrated through works, as mentioned in James 2:25? How can you apply this principle in your daily life?

4. What does Rahab's account teach us about God's grace and redemption? How can this understanding impact the way we view ourselves and others?

5. How can Rahab's decision to protect the spies inform our understanding of truth and deception in complex situations? Discuss how you would handle a situation where telling the truth might endanger others.

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 11:31
Rahab is commended for her faith, which led her to welcome the spies in peace, showing her belief in the God of Israel.

James 2:25
Rahab's actions are highlighted as an example of faith being demonstrated through works, emphasizing the importance of active faith.

Exodus 1:15-21
The Hebrew midwives' defiance of Pharaoh's orders parallels Rahab's actions, as both involve risking their lives to protect God's people.