Joshua 7:11

Israel has sinned; they have transgressed My covenant that I commanded them, and they have taken some of what was devoted to destruction. Indeed, they have stolen and lied, and they have put these things with their own possessions.

Study Bible

Israel has sinned;
This phrase indicates a collective responsibility for sin within the community of Israel. In the context of Joshua 7, the sin of Achan is seen as affecting the entire nation. This reflects the communal nature of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where the actions of one can impact the whole. This concept is echoed in other parts of Scripture, such as in 1 Corinthians 5:6, where Paul warns that a little leaven leavens the whole lump, emphasizing the impact of individual sin on the community.

they have transgressed My covenant that I commanded them,
The covenant referred to here is the Mosaic Covenant, which includes the laws and commandments given to Israel at Mount Sinai. Transgressing the covenant means breaking the agreement and disobeying God's commands. This breach of covenant is a serious offense, as it signifies a rejection of God's authority and provision. The covenant relationship is central to Israel's identity and mission, as seen in Deuteronomy 28, where blessings and curses are outlined based on obedience or disobedience to the covenant.

and they have taken some of what was devoted to destruction.
The term "devoted to destruction" refers to the Hebrew concept of "herem," which involves dedicating something to God, often through complete destruction, as an act of judgment and purification. In the context of the conquest of Canaan, certain items and people were to be destroyed as a means of purging idolatry and sin from the land. Achan's taking of these items was a direct violation of God's command, as seen in Joshua 6:18-19, where the Israelites were warned not to take any of the devoted things.

Indeed, they have stolen and lied,
This phrase highlights the specific sins of theft and deceit. Achan's actions involved not only taking what was forbidden but also concealing his sin from the community and from God. This deceit is reminiscent of the sin of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1-11, where lying to the Holy Spirit resulted in severe consequences. The emphasis on honesty and integrity is a recurring theme in Scripture, as seen in Proverbs 12:22, which states that lying lips are an abomination to the Lord.

and they have put these things with their own possessions.
By placing the devoted items among their own possessions, Achan attempted to integrate sin into his life without consequence. This act of hiding sin is a common human tendency, yet it is futile before an omniscient God. The concealment of sin is addressed in Psalm 139:7-12, which speaks of God's inescapable presence. This phrase also serves as a warning against the dangers of covetousness and materialism, as seen in 1 Timothy 6:10, where the love of money is described as the root of all kinds of evil.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israel
The collective nation of God's chosen people, who have entered the Promised Land under Joshua's leadership. In this context, Israel is held accountable for the sin of one individual, Achan, highlighting the communal nature of sin and responsibility.

2. Joshua
The leader of Israel, successor to Moses, tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land. He is responsible for addressing the sin within the camp and restoring the covenant relationship with God.

3. Achan
An Israelite from the tribe of Judah who disobeyed God's command by taking devoted items from Jericho, leading to Israel's defeat at Ai. His actions serve as a cautionary tale about the consequences of disobedience.

4. Ai
A city in Canaan where Israel faced unexpected defeat due to Achan's sin. This event underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands for victory and blessing.

5. The Devoted Things
Items that were to be destroyed or dedicated to the Lord as part of the conquest of Jericho. Achan's taking of these items represents a breach of God's covenant and a failure to honor His holiness.

Teaching Points

The Communal Impact of Sin
Sin is not just a personal issue; it affects the entire community of believers. We must be vigilant in addressing sin within our midst to maintain purity and unity.

The Importance of Obedience
Obedience to God's commands is crucial for experiencing His blessings and victory. Disobedience leads to defeat and separation from God's favor.

The Consequences of Hidden Sin
Hidden sin can lead to unexpected consequences and hinder our relationship with God. Confession and repentance are necessary to restore fellowship with Him.

God's Holiness and Justice
God's response to sin reflects His holiness and justice. We must approach Him with reverence and a commitment to uphold His standards.

The Need for Accountability
Accountability within the community of believers helps prevent sin and encourages spiritual growth. We should support one another in living according to God's Word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the sin of one individual, like Achan, affect the entire community of believers today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are obedient to God's commands in our daily lives?

3. What steps can we take to uncover and address hidden sins in our hearts and communities?

4. How does understanding God's holiness and justice influence our approach to sin and repentance?

5. What role does accountability play in maintaining a healthy and holy community of believers, and how can we foster it in our church or small group?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 7:25-26
These verses warn against taking devoted things, emphasizing the need for Israel to remain pure and obedient to God's commands. This connection highlights the seriousness of Achan's sin and the broader implications for the community.

1 Corinthians 5:6-7
Paul speaks about the impact of sin within the church, using the metaphor of leaven. This connection illustrates how individual sin can affect the entire community, similar to Achan's impact on Israel.

Hebrews 12:1
Encourages believers to lay aside every weight and sin that entangles. This connection serves as a reminder of the need for personal holiness and vigilance against sin.