How does Achan's confession in Joshua 7:20 teach about personal accountability? Immediate Context of the Confession • After Israel’s surprising defeat at Ai, the LORD identifies hidden sin as the cause (Joshua 7:11–12). • Lot is cast, tribe by tribe, until Achan is singled out (Joshua 7:16-18). • Joshua urges him, “Give glory to the LORD… tell me what you have done” (Joshua 7:19). Achan’s Words—Personal Ownership “So Achan answered Joshua, ‘It is true. I have sinned against the LORD, the God of Israel. This is what I did:’ ” (Joshua 7:20) • “It is true” — no excuses, no softening. • “I have sinned” — first-person admission; he doesn’t blame the crowd, the battle, or circumstances. • “against the LORD” — recognizes that every disobedience is ultimately Godward (Psalm 51:4). • “This is what I did” — details follow (v. 21), confirming that genuine confession names the sin. Key Lessons on Personal Accountability • Hidden sin hurts the whole community (Joshua 7:12; 1 Corinthians 12:26). • God calls each believer to answer for personal choices (Romans 14:12). • Confession must be truthful, specific, and God-focused (Proverbs 28:13; 1 John 1:9). • Delayed admission does not erase consequences: Israel’s loss, Achan’s judgment, and a warning “written for our instruction” (1 Corinthians 10:11). • Accountability safeguards holiness: the camp was purified only when sin was exposed and judged (Joshua 7:24-26). Practical Takeaways for Today • Invite the Lord’s searching eye before discipline forces exposure (Psalm 139:23-24). • Keep short accounts: daily confess known sin rather than letting it fester. • Understand that private rebellion never stays private; it affects family, church, and witness. • Embrace both confession and repentance—turn from the sin you name (Acts 3:19). • Remember God’s consistent principle: “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked. For whatever a man sows, he will reap in return” (Galatians 6:7). |
    |