Joshua 22:20

Was not Achan son of Zerah unfaithful regarding what was set apart for destruction, bringing wrath upon the whole congregation of Israel? Yet it was not only Achan who perished because of his sin!'"

Study Bible

Was not Achan son of Zerah unfaithful regarding what was set apart for destruction
Achan's story is found in Joshua 7, where he disobeyed God's command by taking items from Jericho that were devoted to destruction. This act of unfaithfulness highlights the seriousness of violating God's commands, especially concerning items devoted to Him. Achan's lineage, being a descendant of Zerah, connects him to the tribe of Judah, emphasizing that even those from prominent tribes were not exempt from judgment. The term "set apart for destruction" refers to the Hebrew concept of "herem," where certain things were devoted to God, often through destruction, to purify the community and maintain holiness.

bringing wrath upon the whole congregation of Israel
Achan's sin had communal consequences, illustrating the interconnectedness of the Israelite community. This reflects the biblical principle that sin can affect not just the individual but the entire community. The wrath of God manifested in Israel's initial defeat at Ai, showing that disobedience could hinder the nation's progress and success. This communal aspect of sin is echoed in other scriptures, such as 1 Corinthians 5:6, where Paul warns that a little leaven leavens the whole lump, indicating how sin can spread and impact the larger body.

Yet it was not only Achan who perished because of his sin!
The consequences of Achan's sin extended beyond himself, leading to the death of his family and the loss of Israelite soldiers at Ai. This serves as a sobering reminder of the far-reaching effects of sin. The communal punishment underscores the seriousness with which God views covenant faithfulness and the need for collective responsibility. This principle is seen throughout scripture, where the actions of one can bring consequences upon many, as in the case of Adam's sin affecting all humanity (Romans 5:12). The narrative also foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who bore the sins of many, reversing the curse of sin and death for those who believe.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Achan
A member of the tribe of Judah who sinned by taking forbidden items during the conquest of Jericho, leading to Israel's defeat at Ai.

2. Zerah
Achan's father, mentioned to trace Achan's lineage within the tribe of Judah.

3. Israel
The nation chosen by God, which suffered consequences due to Achan's sin.

4. Jericho
The city whose spoils were devoted to destruction, from which Achan took forbidden items.

5. Ai
The city where Israel faced defeat due to Achan's sin, highlighting the communal impact of individual disobedience.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
Achan's account illustrates that sin is not just a personal matter but can have communal consequences. We must be vigilant in our personal holiness.

Corporate Responsibility
The entire nation of Israel suffered due to Achan's sin, reminding us that our actions can impact our community, family, and church.

Obedience to God's Commands
The command to destroy everything in Jericho was clear. Disobedience, even in seemingly small matters, can lead to significant consequences.

Repentance and Restoration
While Achan's account ends tragically, it serves as a warning and a call to repentance. God desires restoration and purity among His people.

Guarding Against Temptation
Achan's downfall began with coveting. We must guard our hearts against desires that lead us away from God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Achan's sin and its consequences reflect the communal nature of sin within the body of Christ today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are obedient to God's commands, even in areas that seem insignificant?

3. How can the church effectively address sin within its community while maintaining a spirit of grace and restoration?

4. What steps can we take to guard our hearts against covetousness and other temptations that lead us away from God's will?

5. How does understanding the impact of Achan's sin help us appreciate the importance of repentance and the grace offered through Jesus Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 7
Provides the full account of Achan's sin, the subsequent defeat at Ai, and the process of identifying and punishing Achan.

1 Corinthians 5
Discusses the impact of sin within a community and the need for purity within the church.

Romans 5:12-19
Explores the concept of one man's sin affecting many, drawing a parallel between Adam's sin and Achan's.

Hebrews 12:15
Warns against allowing a "root of bitterness" to grow, which can defile many, similar to how Achan's sin affected Israel.

Deuteronomy 13:17
Emphasizes the importance of destroying what is devoted to destruction to avoid bringing sin into the community.