The Story Of Rahab

Almost isn’t enough

Saved by Faith: The Story of Rahab

Bible Passage: Joshua 6:22–27

Summary: In this passage, Rahab, a Canaanite prostitute, shows faith in God by hiding the Israelite spies and asking for the safety of her family during the destruction of Jericho. Her faith leads to a promise of deliverance, demonstrating that trust in God can lead to unexpected salvation.

Application: This sermon encourages Christians to recognize that God can save anyone, regardless of their past. It also reminds us that mere doubt or partial faith is not enough; true faith involves a commitment to act on that belief, showcasing how God honors those who have faith in Him during difficult times.

Teaching: The lesson illustrates that faith is not confined to cultural or moral backgrounds. Rahab's story is a testament to God's grace and the transformational power of faith. It teaches us that those who seem farthest from God can be brought close through faith and obedience to His word.

How this passage could point to Christ: Rahab is a type of the church and a picture of salvation by grace through faith. Her story foreshadows Christ's redemptive work, illustrating how faith in God leads to salvation, which is a central theme throughout Scripture, culminating in the New Testament where Jesus exemplifies complete obedience and faithfulness to God’s mission.

Big Idea: True faith leads to salvation and protection, even for those who might seem unworthy; it’s not about being almost enough but completely trusting in God's promises.

Recommended Study: While preparing your sermon, consider delving into the cultural background of Rahab and the concept of faith in ancient Israel. Look into the significance of her profession and the implications of her actions, which may raise exegetical questions about inclusion and grace. Utilizing Logos, you can explore academic commentaries that address these themes and examine parallel texts in the New Testament that reference Rahab, such as Hebrews 11:31 and James 2:25, to enrich your understanding of her faith.

1. Rahab’s Remarkable Rescue

Joshua 6:22-23

You could highlight Rahab’s quick obedience as an act of faith. Her actions to save the spies and her dealings with them were grounded in a deep belief in their God. Energy is drawn from Rahab’s example—that true faith moves beyond mere lip service to conviction-filled actions. Rahab’s faith wasn’t hindered by her past or her social standing; rather, it was her earnest steps towards God's protection that led to her and her family’s salvation.

2. Rahab’s Remarkable Redemption

Joshua 6:24-25

Maybe consider how Rahab’s deliverance was not just personal but extended to her entire family due to her faith. This portion of the sermon can delve into how God’s promise was fulfilled amidst Jericho’s destruction. In a broader sense, it shows how faith has communal impacts, offering salvation for households that trust in God. This reflects the wider biblical narrative of collective salvation through faith.

3. Rahab’s Remarkable Legacy

Joshua 6:26-27

Consider focusing on the legacy left by Rahab’s faith. As the destruction culminates in fulfilling God’s judgement on Jericho, the narrative shifts to how the Lord was with Joshua, magnifying the theme that God honors faithfulness. Rahab’s story doesn’t end but impacts history, as she becomes an ancestor of Christ. Her faith interweaves with the divine plan, fulfilling the promise that faith, even from the least expected, is recognized and blessed by God.