Scriptures: Joshua 2:1-15
Reflection Song: “Make Me Over Again” by Tonéx
What Had Happened Was…(the modern summary)
So Boom…(the revelation)
Rahab may not have a dedicated book in the Bible and is mentioned in fewer than 30 verses, but her impact was instrumental to important figures in Scripture. When mentioning Rahab, many start with her past, limiting her role to a prostitute who saved the spies rather than leading with her bloodline being traced to Jesus. Context shows that Rahab was not a prostitute by choice but by circumstance. Looking at the layout of Jericho, the master planning was steeped in a caste system that determined where you lived. The inner walls of the city were safer and better fortified, housing the elite, while the less wealthy lived in the land between the outer and inner walls. The poorest of them actually built their homes into the city wall itself, with the retaining wall serving as their exterior back wall, where Rahab lived. Rahab’s profession was less about questionable morality and more about a woman with no resources trying to support her family. She cared so deeply for them that she risked her life not only to hide the spies, but also to deceive the King and his men.
Aside from Rahab’s redemption arc, one of the most fascinating historical moments is found in her story: the collapse of the wall of Jericho. Archaeologists and scholars have visited the site to see if there is a scientific explanation for the city’s destruction. There are many theories mixed with physical evidence about why the wall fell. These theories range from Jericho’s location near a seismic zone to the mechanical resonance theory, which suggests that the sound frequency of the army’s shouting and trumpet blasts, combined with the force of Joshua’s army marching, exceeded the natural frequency of the walls made of mud and brick.
An even more interesting point than the collapse itself is how the walls fell. Studies show that both the interior and exterior walls of Jericho fell outward, creating a ramp of rubble for the Israelites to climb. Architecturally, Rahab’s house was secure since it was built into the retaining wall on the exterior, but the collapse of the inner wall would have demolished her home. However, scholars confirm that the north portion of the exterior wall did not fall with the rest. This is significant because in Joshua 6:22, Joshua instructs his men to locate Rahab and her family after the collapse. This suggests that Rahab lived in the northern section of the wall that was spared, her family being the recipients of God’s selective destruction on Jericho.
Whether you find meaning in scientific theories or in the knowledge that this city has been excavated, know that we serve a God who created and defies science. When God is ready for walls to fall, they obey His command.
QTNA (Questions That Need Answers)
- Although labels don’t define us, they can still cause deep pain. What labels in your life have been difficult to shake, and why?
- Scripture Recharge: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” (2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV)
- Sometimes God’s instructions don’t make sense at the moment. What challenges make it hard for you to keep marching until Day 7, trusting that the breakthrough is coming?
- Scripture Recharge: “But for me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may tell of all your works.” (Psalm 73:28 ESV)
- Rahab’s transformation from prostitute to a matriarch in Christ’s lineage was a complete turnaround. How often do you bring your dreams before God, and how can we practice gratitude both in the mountains and in the valleys?
- Scripture Recharge: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV)
- God’s covering is both beautiful and supernatural. Rahab’s home was spared from collapse and invasion. Can you share a time when God stepped in and protected you, even when the odds were against you?
- Scripture Recharge: “But you, O Lord, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head.” (Psalm 3:3 ESV)
- Rahab believed God would give Israel victory even before she personally experienced Him. There is power in being in the proximity of God’s presence. How can we build up our faith so that we have confidence in God’s power and authority in our lives?
- Scripture Recharge: “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” (Psalm 16:11 ESV)
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