How does Joshua 2:17 demonstrate the importance of faith in God's promises? Text “The men said to her, ‘We will be free from this oath you made us swear unless, when we enter the land, you tie this scarlet cord in the window through which you let us down, and unless you bring your father, mother, brothers, and all your father’s household into your home.’ ” (Joshua 2:17) Immediate Literary Context Rahab has concealed the spies, confessed that “the LORD your God is God in heaven above and on earth below” (v. 11), and pleaded for deliverance when Israel conquers Jericho. Verse 17 records the spies’ stipulation: Rahab must display a scarlet cord and gather her household inside. By accepting these terms she transfers her security from Jericho’s walls to Yahweh’s promise, illustrating lived faith. Faith Expressed Through a Visible Sign 1. The scarlet cord functions as a covenant token parallel to the Passover blood on Israelite doorposts (Exodus 12:7,13). 2. Faith is evidenced not merely in assent but in obedience: Rahab must act before the walls fall (Hebrews 11:31). 3. The cord’s placement “in the window” externalizes trust; hiding it, or removing it, would nullify the oath (v. 20). Thus Joshua 2:17 teaches that authentic faith confidently embraces God’s word and acts upon it, even while judgment still appears distant. Covenantal Structure and Oath Formula Ancient Near-Eastern treaties included stated conditions, a visible seal, and consequences. The spies echo that pattern, confirming the reliability of Scripture’s historical depiction. Rahab’s faith rallies around the oath as a miniature covenant: Yahweh’s representatives promise salvation; Rahab responds with loyal obedience. Typological Foreshadowing of Christ Early Christian writers (e.g., Justin Martyr, Dialogue 95) saw the scarlet cord as prefiguring Christ’s atoning blood. The cord’s color (שָׁנִי, shani) evokes cleansing through sacrificial blood (Leviticus 14:4–7; Hebrews 9:22). Rahab’s family, sheltered within the house, anticipates those “in Christ” who are covered by His resurrection victory. New Testament Affirmations • Hebrews 11:31 elevates Rahab among the faithful who “welcomed the spies in peace.” • James 2:25 underscores the inseparability of faith and works: Rahab’s faith is demonstrated by her actions. These passages confirm that Joshua 2:17 is a paradigmatic text for understanding saving faith as trust that expresses itself in obedient deeds. Archaeological Corroboration Extensive excavation at Tell es-Sultan (ancient Jericho) reveals that a lower mud-brick wall toppled outward, forming a ramp—exactly what Joshua 2 and 6 presuppose (John Garstang, 1930s; Bryant Wood, 1990). One short length of the north wall, adjoining domestic structures, remained standing—precisely where Rahab’s house “was built into the wall” (2:15). The material remains vividly affirm the historical credibility of the narrative. Practical and Missional Applications • Personal Assurance: Believers today “tie the scarlet cord” by publicly aligning with Christ—baptism, confession, and holy living. • Household Evangelism: Rahab’s concern for her family models intercessory outreach; salvation extends relationally. • Perseverance: The cord must remain until victory arrives; likewise, faith perseveres until Christ’s return. Conclusion Joshua 2:17 encapsulates the essence of faith in God’s promises: a confident reliance on His sworn word, manifested in obedient action, vindicated by historical fulfillment, and ratified in the New Testament as the pathway to salvation. |
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