1. Rahab helps the spies (1-7)

Rahab was a prostitute and a citizen of Jericho. When the Israeli spies came to her house, she protected them. She betrayed her own people and risked her life by lying to the king of Jericho. Why?

2. I heard about the Lord your God (8-24)

Rahab had heard about the mighty works of God on behalf of the Israelites. She believed that God had dried up the Red Sea to deliver Israel from Egypt, and that he had given Israel victory over the Amorites. She believed that the God of Israel was the God of heaven and earth, and that he would give Canaan to Israel. By faith, she helped the spies. She told them that the hearts of the people of Jericho were melting because of the God of Israel. She let them down by a rope through a window, and hung a scarlet cord in the window. They promised to protect her and her household. Her faith planted faith in Israel. She is listed among the heros of faith (Heb 11:31), and she is included in Jesus' genealogy (Mt 1).

Application: Lord, root my faith in your history. Teach me commitment to you and your people.
One Word: By faith, Rahab...