The Faith of Rahab

Hebrews 11:31

(Read Joshua 2:1-24; 6:24-25)

1. Skim through Joshua 2:1-24. This chapter describes the two spies' mission journey. What was the implication of their journey-report? How do you think their report impacted the Lord's army? 

2. Think about the way Rahab helped (or 'welcomed') the two spies. How would you rate her service for them? What did she risk to protect and serve them the way she did? 

3. Read Joshua 2:8-11, and think about what she said to the spies, particularly the following expressions: (1) "I know"; (2) "We have heard"; and (3) "we heard of it, our hearts melted and everyone's courage failed". What did she do with what she "heard"? What didn't the rest of the people (in Jericho) do with what they heard? What made the difference in their responses? 

4. Consider the deal she struck with the spies. What do the following expressions show us about the nature of the agreement she made with the spies? (1) "Swear to me by the Lord"; (2) "Give me a sure sign"; (3) "Our lives for your lives!"; (4) "This oath you made us swear"; (5) "binding"; (6) "this scarlet cord"; and (7) "blood". 

5. Read Joshua 6:24-25. Who were saved? How did they get saved? How else did the Lord bless Rahab? (Cf. Matthew 1:1, 5)  

6. Read Hebrews 11:31 and compare it with James 2:24, 25. What does James 2:24, 25 tell us about the work of faith?