Now Jericho was strongly fortified because of the Israelites—no one leaving or entering. The Lord said to Joshua, “Look, I have handed Jericho, its king, and its fighting men over to you. March around the city with all the men of war, circling the city one time. Do this for six days. Have seven priests carry seven ram’s-horn trumpets in front of the ark. But on the seventh day, march around the city seven times while the priests blow the trumpets. When there is a prolonged blast of the horn, and you hear its sound, have all the people give a mighty shout. Then the city wall will collapse, and the people will advance, each man straight ahead.” Joshua 6:1-5
Warfare! Do you know anything about the strategies of warfare? How about ancient warfare? From the above passage of scripture, what is the first phase of the conquest of Jericho? What is the promise that God made to Joshua in verse 2? What was phase two of conquering the city? What do you think the effect was of this strategy of taking down Jericho?
A walled city is easy to protect, to defend. It isn’t easy to penetrate. The most effective method in attacking a city is by surrounding it and cutting off its supplies. This means cutting off water and food supply. Starvation would force them out and fight. In phase two of attacking Jericho, there were specific instructions. This would require obedience and faith of the Israelites. Now reread the above verses? Can you imagine what the Jericho soldiers were thinking about the Israelites? Marching around the city walls carrying the ark before them? Do you think the soldiers thought that these Israelites were crazy? They had heard about their God and the miraculous things He has done for the Israelites. They responded with fear.
The Israelites obeyed God’s commands – His instructions. Since they did this, God caused the walls of Jericho to fall to the ground. All, but the wall where Rahab lived. Let’s continue to read chapter 6: 15-25. What were Joshua’s instructions about the city and Rahab? What did the people do to Jericho? Who rescued Rahab and her family? Where did they take them? What happened to Rahab after the battle was over?
Do you see a correlation between Rahab and the church?
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for showing us your great love for us through others. You are so mighty and wonderful. I pray that we will have faith like Rahab’s.
In Jesus Name
Amen
