What can we learn about God's justice from the destruction in Joshua 6:24? Setting the Scene “Then they burned the city and everything in it, but they put the silver, gold, and articles of bronze and iron into the treasury of the house of the LORD.” (Joshua 6:24) • Jericho’s destruction came after God’s explicit command (Joshua 6:17). • The people of Canaan had reached the full measure of their iniquity (Genesis 15:16). • Israel served as God’s instrument of judgment, not a rogue aggressor (Deuteronomy 9:4–5). What the Flames Tell Us About Sin • Sin has a definite payday—“the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). • God’s justice is never arbitrary; Jericho’s downfall culminated centuries of divine patience (2 Peter 3:9). • Once God’s deadline arrives, judgment is swift and total (Matthew 24:37–39). Why the Treasure Was Spared • God distinguishes between what is cursed and what is consecrated. • The silver and gold were holy to the LORD, foreshadowing that even in judgment He preserves resources for His worship (Exodus 12:35–36; Haggai 2:8). • Justice never nullifies God’s right to claim devotion and honor. Justice and Mercy Side by Side • Rahab and her household were rescued (Joshua 6:22–23), proving judgment does not eclipse mercy for those who believe (Hebrews 11:31). • God’s wrath against sin magnifies the beauty of His salvation—“steadfast love surrounds the one who trusts in the LORD” (Psalm 32:10). • The cross mirrors Jericho: righteous wrath poured out, yet a scarlet cord of deliverance offered to all who trust Christ (Isaiah 53:5–6; John 3:16). Lessons for Our Walk Today • Treat sin seriously; hidden compromise invites certain loss (Joshua 7). • Submit to God’s timeline—He is patient but will not overlook rebellion forever (Nahum 1:3). • Devote the best of your resources to the Lord; judgment clarifies what truly belongs to Him (Proverbs 3:9). • Rejoice in deliverance: just as Rahab trusted the LORD before the walls fell, place faith in Christ now, while mercy is available (2 Corinthians 6:2). |
    |