Rahab

Q: Was Rahab right to lie to protect the spies?

Scripture commends Rahab's faith (Hebrews 11:31, James 2:25) without explicitly approving her lie. The focus is on her faith that led her to risk everything for God's people. God can use imperfect faith and redeem our flawed choices.

Woman of Jericho who hid the spies

Old Testament

Rahab was a prostitute in Jericho who hid the Israelite spies and helped them escape. In return, she and her family were spared when Jericho fell. She is praised in the New Testament for her faith and is listed in the genealogy of Jesus Christ.

Character Traits

FaithCourageousOutsider WelcomedRedeemed

Life Timeline

Hiding Spiesc. 1406 BC

Rahab hides Israelite spies and confesses faith in their God.

JOS 2:1-14

Covenantc. 1406 BC

Rahab receives promise of safety for her family, marked by a scarlet cord.

JOS 2:15-21

Salvationc. 1406 BC

Rahab and her family are saved when Jericho falls.

JOS 6:22-25

Integrationc. 1400 BC

Rahab marries Salmon and becomes an ancestor of David and Jesus.

MAT 1:5

Key Relationships

Jesus Christrelations.ancestor

Ancestor - Rahab appears in Jesus' genealogy, showing God's grace to outsiders.

Key Locations

Jericho

City where Rahab lived and was saved from destruction.

Spiritual Lessons

Faith Over Background

Rahab was a Canaanite prostitute—yet her faith earned her place in the 'Hall of Faith' (Hebrews 11) and Jesus' genealogy. God judges by faith, not past sins or ethnic background.

Key Verses

Joshua 2:1-21 Joshua 6:22-25 Hebrews 11:31

Frequently Asked Questions

Was Rahab right to lie to protect the spies?+

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