Joshua 2:9

and said to them, "I know that the LORD has given you this land and that the fear of you has fallen on us, so that all who dwell in the land are melting in fear of you.

Study Bible

and said to them,
Rahab, a resident of Jericho, speaks to the Israelite spies. Her role is significant as she is a Canaanite woman who recognizes the power of the God of Israel. This interaction highlights the theme of God's sovereignty and the inclusion of Gentiles in His plan.

“I know that the LORD has given you this land
Rahab acknowledges the divine promise given to the Israelites. This reflects the fulfillment of God's covenant with Abraham (Genesis 15:18-21) and the assurance of the land of Canaan to his descendants. Her statement is a testament to the widespread knowledge of God's deeds and promises.

and that the fear of you has fallen on us,
The fear of the Israelites among the Canaanites fulfills the prophecy in Exodus 23:27, where God promises to send His terror ahead of Israel. This fear is not just of the Israelites but of their God, who has demonstrated His power through the plagues in Egypt and the parting of the Red Sea.

so that all who dwell in the land are melting in fear of you.
The phrase "melting in fear" indicates a complete loss of courage and morale among the Canaanites. This fear is a direct result of the miraculous events that have preceded the Israelites' arrival, such as the defeat of Sihon and Og (Numbers 21:21-35). It underscores the psychological impact of God's intervention on behalf of His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rahab
A Canaanite woman living in Jericho, known for her faith and actions in hiding the Israelite spies. Her acknowledgment of God's power is significant in this passage.

2. Israelite Spies
Sent by Joshua to scout the land of Jericho, they encounter Rahab, who provides them with crucial information and assistance.

3. Jericho
A fortified city in Canaan, representing the first major conquest for the Israelites as they enter the Promised Land.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, whose reputation and power have instilled fear in the inhabitants of Canaan.

5. Canaanites
The inhabitants of the land of Canaan, who are described as being in fear due to the Israelites and their God.

Teaching Points

Acknowledgment of God's Sovereignty
Rahab's recognition of God's power and sovereignty over the land serves as a reminder of God's ultimate authority in our lives.

The Impact of God's Reputation
The fear of the LORD among the Canaanites highlights the power of God's reputation. As believers, we should live in a way that reflects God's glory and instills reverence in others.

Faith in Action
Rahab's faith led her to act courageously. Our faith should also lead us to take bold steps in obedience to God.

God's Plan for All Nations
Rahab, a non-Israelite, becomes part of God's redemptive plan, illustrating that God's purposes extend beyond ethnic and cultural boundaries.

The Role of Fear in Faith
The fear of the LORD can lead to wisdom and salvation, as seen in Rahab's account. We should cultivate a healthy reverence for God in our spiritual journey.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rahab's acknowledgment of God's power challenge or encourage your own faith journey?

2. In what ways can we, like Rahab, demonstrate our faith through actions in our daily lives?

3. How does the fear of the LORD manifest in your life, and how can it lead to greater wisdom and obedience?

4. What can Rahab's inclusion in God's plan teach us about God's view of people from different backgrounds and cultures?

5. How can we ensure that our lives reflect the reputation and glory of God to those around us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 15:14-16
This passage describes the fear that falls upon the nations as they hear of God's mighty acts, similar to the fear described by Rahab.

Hebrews 11:31
Rahab is commended for her faith, which is demonstrated in her actions in Joshua 2:9.

James 2:25
Rahab's faith is shown to be active through her works, aligning with her acknowledgment of God's power in Joshua 2:9.