What can we learn from Rahab's faith about trusting God's promises today? Setting the Scene “ I know that the LORD has given you this land and that the dread of you has fallen on us, so that all who dwell in the land melt in fear of you.” (Joshua 2:9) Rahab Recognized God’s Sovereignty • She speaks in the past tense—“has given”—before Israel has crossed the Jordan. • Faith = taking God at His word (Numbers 23:19). • Today: Anchor confidence not in circumstances but in what God has already declared finished—our salvation (John 19:30) and His coming kingdom (Revelation 11:15). Faith Rooted in Reliable Testimony • Rahab had only heard reports (Joshua 2:10–11) yet believed. • “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17) • Scripture’s record of God’s past acts fuels present trust; His written word is fully true (Psalm 119:89). Trust That Acts Courageously • She hides the spies at great personal risk (James 2:25). • Genuine faith produces works that align with God’s promises (Ephesians 2:10). • Modern parallel: Obedience that defies cultural pressure because God’s verdict outweighs human opinion (Acts 5:29). God’s Promises Extend to Outsiders • Rahab was a Canaanite and a prostitute; grace reached her (Ephesians 2:12–13). • She enters Israel’s lineage and appears in Messiah’s genealogy (Matthew 1:5). • No background disqualifies anyone who turns to the Lord; His promises are “yes” and “amen” in Christ (2 Corinthians 1:20). Visible Tokens of Invisible Assurance • The scarlet cord (Joshua 2:18–21) pictured redemption, foreshadowing the blood of Christ (1 Peter 1:18–19). • God often pairs a tangible sign with His word—Rainbow (Genesis 9), Communion (Luke 22:19). • Today we cling to the cross and the empty tomb as historic anchors for future hope (1 Corinthians 15:3–4, 20). Legacy of Faith for Our Day • Hebrews 11:31 lists Rahab among the faithful; her story proves faith is possible in hostile settings. • Trust God’s character when outcomes remain unseen—“We walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7) • When fear rises, recall Rahab: God keeps every promise, includes unlikely people, and turns simple trust into world-shaping history. |
    |