The Shady Lady of Jericho

An Unusual Suspect

Can we talk about the spies for a moment? It doesn’t seem they were…good at spying. From the moment they enter, they’re marked. From the time the leave, they need Rahab’s help the entire time.

Rahab the harlot…not innkeeper.

Not just a harlot, but a liar! Two things: first, the Bible does this, I BELIEVE, to underscore Rahab’s sin; but second, the Bible makes no comment on what we’re to think about this. Our inclination is to quibble over the ethical nature of Rahab’s deceit, but the text is utterly unconcerned with whether her lying is right or wrong!

In the city of Jericho — a pagan.

Honestly, we’re all unusual suspects in the halls of faith (Rom.3:9-26).

An Unlikely Confession

Rahab’s favorable treatment of the spies is rooted in her understanding of God.

Note her confession and the grounds for it: God is God alone (of heaven and earth) and He has done mighty things for Israel.

Her confession leads her to plead for mercy and grace.

When you rightly understand who God is, you also know He is the only one who can save you from yourself.

An Uncommon Report

The report of the spies should remind the reader of a previous report given by spies who looked into the Promised Land.

It’s uncommon because it serves as a stark contrast between the previous generation and the current generation.

They recount “everything that had happened to them.” This unbelievable story of God’s deliverance assures them God’s at work.

BUT WHY INCLUDE THE STORY AT ALL?!

Rahab’s inclusion is unnecessary to the entrance into the Land. The text actually flows more naturally from chapter 1 to chapter 3.

This means Rahab’s story is the point! It’s a story of incredible grace and God’s goodness to anyone who will call upon Him!

How do we become recipients of that grace? The scarlet cord is quite a vivid reminder!

Questions for Consideration:

How are you moving from head knowledge about Jesus to a heart and life motivated by that belief?

How are you encouraged by Rahab and this beautiful story of grace?

What hope and encouragement do you draw from God’s mercy?