Joshua 2:19

If anyone goes out the door of your house into the street, his blood will be on his own head, and we will be innocent. But if a hand is laid on anyone with you in the house, his blood will be on our heads.

Study Bible

If anyone goes out the door of your house into the street
This phrase emphasizes the importance of staying within the designated place of safety. In the context of Joshua 2, Rahab's house serves as a sanctuary during the impending destruction of Jericho. This mirrors the Passover in Exodus 12, where the Israelites were instructed to stay indoors with the blood of the lamb on their doorposts to be spared from the angel of death. The concept of a place of refuge is a recurring theme in Scripture, symbolizing God's protection for those who obey His instructions.

his blood will be on his own head
This expression indicates personal responsibility for one's actions. In ancient Near Eastern culture, the phrase "blood on one's head" signifies accountability for one's own death due to disobedience or negligence. This principle is echoed in Ezekiel 33:4, where the watchman warns the people, and those who ignore the warning bear their own guilt. It underscores the biblical theme of individual responsibility before God.

and we will be innocent
The spies' declaration of innocence reflects a legal and moral release from guilt. In the covenantal context, they are bound to protect Rahab and her family only if the conditions are met. This reflects the biblical principle of conditional covenants, where blessings and protection are contingent upon obedience. The spies' promise is reminiscent of the covenantal faithfulness God expects from His people.

But if a hand is laid on anyone with you in the house
This phrase underscores the assurance of protection for those who remain within the designated safe zone. It highlights the seriousness of the spies' oath to Rahab, ensuring her safety as part of their agreement. This protection is reminiscent of the cities of refuge described in Numbers 35, where individuals could find safety from avengers. It also foreshadows the ultimate protection found in Christ, who offers refuge to all who come to Him.

his blood will be on our heads
Here, the spies take on the responsibility for any harm that befalls Rahab's family if they remain in the house. This reflects the biblical principle of bearing one another's burdens, as seen in Galatians 6:2. It also illustrates the concept of substitutionary atonement, where one party takes on the consequences for another's safety, pointing to Christ's sacrifice on behalf of humanity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rahab
A Canaanite woman living in Jericho who hid the Israelite spies. Her faith and actions led to her and her family's salvation.

2. Israelite Spies
Sent by Joshua to scout the land of Jericho. They made a covenant with Rahab for her protection.

3. Jericho
A fortified city in Canaan, significant for its impending conquest by the Israelites.

4. Joshua
The leader of Israel after Moses, responsible for leading the Israelites into the Promised Land.

5. The Covenant
An agreement between Rahab and the spies, symbolized by a scarlet cord, ensuring her family's safety during the conquest.

Teaching Points

Faith and Action
Rahab's account teaches that true faith is accompanied by action. Her belief in the God of Israel led her to protect the spies, risking her own life.

God's Grace and Redemption
Rahab, a non-Israelite and a sinner, is included in the lineage of Jesus (Matthew 1:5), demonstrating God's grace and the power of redemption.

The Importance of Obedience
The condition of staying inside the house for protection emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's instructions for salvation.

Covenant and Protection
The covenant made with Rahab shows the seriousness of promises and the protection that comes from being under God's covenant.

Community Responsibility
The passage highlights the responsibility of the community to protect those within their care, reflecting the broader biblical principle of loving and safeguarding one another.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rahab's faith challenge our understanding of who can be used by God for His purposes?

2. In what ways does the account of Rahab and the spies illustrate the concept of salvation through faith and obedience?

3. How can we apply the principle of community responsibility in our own church or family settings?

4. What does Rahab's inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus teach us about God's grace and redemption?

5. How can the covenant between Rahab and the spies inspire us to be faithful in our commitments to God and others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
The Passover, where the blood on the doorposts protected the Israelites, parallels the protection promised to Rahab's household.

Hebrews 11:31
Rahab is commended for her faith, showing her belief in the God of Israel.

James 2:25
Rahab's actions are highlighted as an example of faith demonstrated through works.