The story of Rahab the “harlot” in Joshua 2 is an interesting one that raises questions about honesty, lying and God’s perspective on this. Surely Rahab was doing right by protecting the spies thus aligning herself with God’s plan and God’s people. But she blatantly lied to do so. How is that commendable?
In our “safe” world it is difficult to understand such challenges, the same ones faced by those who hid Jews from the Nazis. I really don’t have a full understanding of it but I do see a beautiful truth in this story.
All who remained in Rahab’s house were saved regardless of their guilt, sin or history. They were spared simply because they believed Rahab and came into the house. If they left the house they would surely die along with everyone else during God’s time of judgment on Jericho.
Rahab performed a righteous act – sparing the lives of the spies. But in doing so she sinned – lied. What an incredible picture of our wonderful Lord who performed a righteous act of obeying the Father but in doing so became the greatest sinner the world has ever known. The sin of the world was laid on Him. But “His sin” led to salvation for all who are “in Christ” – protected by the “scarlet cord” of His blood.
All who are “in Christ” will be saved during the time of God’s judgment because of Christ’s act of righteousness and His favor with the Father. Those defending themselves by their own effort and acts will surely die. Does God condone lying? Is it OK if we continue in our immorality? Of course not! but He does provide salvation for all who are “in the house” – in Christ.
_____________________
1 Corinthians 6:9-11
Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals, nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God. Such were some of you; but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our God.
Ephesians 2:13
But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.
______________________
If you like what you are reading, why not sign up in the upper right side of this page to receive these devotions through email?
…righteous act of obeying the Father but in doing so
became the greatest sinner the world has ever known.
Very interesting.