Topical Bible: Faith: Rahab, in Hospitality to the Spies

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Rahab, a resident of Jericho, is a prominent figure in the biblical narrative due to her extraordinary act of faith and hospitality towards the Israelite spies. Her account is primarily found in the Book of Joshua, where she plays a crucial role in the Israelites' conquest of Jericho. Rahab's actions are later commended in the New Testament, highlighting her faith and the significance of her deeds.

Biblical Account

The account of Rahab is detailed in Joshua 2. As the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land, Joshua sent two spies to scout the city of Jericho. The spies entered the city and lodged at the house of Rahab, who is described as a prostitute. Despite her profession, Rahab's actions demonstrate a profound faith in the God of Israel.

When the king of Jericho learned of the spies' presence, he sent orders to Rahab to bring them out. However, Rahab hid the men on her roof and misled the king's messengers, saying, "Yes, the men came to me, but I did not know where they had come from. At dusk, when it was time to close the city gate, they left. I do not know which way they went. Go after them quickly, you may catch up with them" (Joshua 2:4-5).

Rahab's decision to protect the spies was motivated by her belief in the power and sovereignty of the God of Israel. She confessed to the spies, "I know that the LORD has given you this land and that the fear of you has fallen upon us, so that all who live in the land are melting in fear because of you" (Joshua 2:9). Rahab acknowledged the miraculous works of God, including the parting of the Red Sea and the defeat of the Amorite kings, Sihon and Og.

In exchange for her kindness and protection, Rahab requested assurance for the safety of her family when the Israelites would attack Jericho. The spies agreed, instructing her to tie a scarlet cord in her window as a sign, and to gather her family in her house to ensure their safety (Joshua 2:17-21).

New Testament References

Rahab's faith and actions are celebrated in the New Testament, where she is mentioned in the "Hall of Faith" in Hebrews 11. The author of Hebrews writes, "By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies in peace, did not perish with those who were disobedient" (Hebrews 11:31). Her inclusion in this chapter underscores her faith as exemplary and worthy of emulation.

Additionally, Rahab is cited in the Epistle of James as an example of faith demonstrated through works. James states, "In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute justified by her actions when she welcomed the spies and sent them off on another route?" (James 2:25). This reference highlights the integral relationship between faith and deeds, illustrating that genuine faith is evidenced by action.

Significance in Salvation History

Rahab's account is not only a testament to her personal faith but also plays a significant role in the broader narrative of salvation history. Her inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus Christ, as recorded in Matthew 1:5, signifies the grace and redemption available to all, regardless of past sins or social status. Rahab, a Gentile and a woman of ill repute, becomes an ancestor of the Messiah, demonstrating God's inclusive plan of salvation.

Rahab's faith and hospitality towards the spies exemplify the transformative power of belief in God. Her actions, driven by faith, led to the preservation of her family and her integration into the community of Israel. Her account continues to inspire believers to trust in God's promises and to act courageously in faith.

Nave's Topical Index

Joshua 2:9,11
And she said to the men, I know that the LORD has given you the land, and that your terror is fallen on us, and that all the inhabitants of the land faint because of you.
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Hebrews 11:31
By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.
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Library

The Rewards of Faith and Hospitality. Rahab.
... On account of her faith and hospitality, Rahab the harlot was saved. For when spies
were sent by Joshua, the son of Nun, to Jericho, the king of the country ...
/.../chapter xii the rewards of faith.htm

The Letter of the Church of Rome
... 12 Because of her faith and hospitality Rahab the harlot was saved. ?^2For when
the spies were sent to Jericho by Joshua the son of Nun, the king of the land ...
/.../richardson/early christian fathers/the letter of the church.htm