Rahab: A Story of Courage, Faith, and Transformation

Listed along with other heroes of our Christian faith in the book of Hebrews, chapter 11, Rahab is one of the most fascinating and inspirational characters in the Bible.

First of all, Rahab is a woman exalted in a time when women were not typically seen much less heard. But throughout the Scriptures, we see God repeatedly hold women in a different light than we do historically as humans.

Where we fail our women, God lifts them up and causes them to rise.

She is a Gentile—not a Hebrew, Israelite, or Jew. Yet, Rahab winds up being an integral part of Jesus Christ’s human lineage. Later on in her life, Rahab marries an Israelite named Salmon. They have a son named Boaz. Boaz marries Ruth and they have a son named Obed who becomes the father of Jesse who in turn becomes the father to David, the future king of Israel. Only God can bring a plan such as this to fruition.

God uses whom He chooses.

But as if being a woman and a Gentile weren’t already enough of an obstacle, we learn that Rahab is also a prostitute.

The Roman historian Josephus refers to her as an innkeeper. She has a home and a family whom she provides for in ways that we wouldn’t expect a woman of faith to do.

Again, we are reminded that God sees people differently than we do. Having every right to judge, God sees us through eyes of grace and a heart of mercy. We—who have absolutely no right to judge—too many times view people with hatred and condemnation.

By faith Rahab the prostitute did not perish with those who were disobedient, because she had given a friendly welcome to the spies.

Hebrews 11:31 ESV

When we explore Rahab’s story, we discover a woman whose life exemplifies courage, faith, and transformation.

Rahab’s story is primarily found in the book of Joshua, chapters 2 and 6.

Rahab lived in the city of Jericho during the time that the Israelites, under Joshua’s leadership, were about to enter the Promised Land. Despite her background as a prostitute, Rahab played a pivotal role in the Israelite spies’ safety and, consequently, in the Israelites’ conquest of Jericho.

Key Stories and Events:

1. Protection of the Spies: Rahab hid two Israelite spies who had come to scout Jericho in preparation for its conquest. Recognizing the God of Israel as the supreme God of heaven and earth, she asked for kindness and protection for her family in return when Jericho would be taken (Joshua 2:1-21).
2. The Scarlet Cord: As a sign of her agreement with the spies, Rahab was instructed to tie a scarlet cord in her window. This cord not only signified her house to be spared during the attack but also symbolizes her faith and the salvation to come through Christ (Joshua 2:18-21).
3. Preservation and Integration: True to their word, the Israelite spies ensured Rahab and her family were spared during Jericho’s fall (Joshua 6:22-25). Rahab’s story doesn’t end here; she is later integrated into the Israelite community, marrying Salmon, and becoming an ancestor of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5).

Virtues and Lessons:

From Rahab’s story, we learn several important virtues and lessons:

1. Faith: Despite her past and the culture she came from, Rahab recognized the power and sovereignty of God, putting her faith in Him over the fears of her current circumstances.
2. Courage: Rahab showed remarkable bravery by hiding the spies and lying to the authorities of Jericho about their presence. Her actions were risky but showcased her determination to do what she believed was right.
3. Transformation: Rahab’s story is a powerful testament to the belief that anyone can change and be used by God for significant purposes. Her past did not define her future in the eyes of God.

Rahab’s life encourages us to look beyond our past, recognize the power of faith, and consider how courage can lead to transformation not just for ourselves but for future generations. There are things we do–choices we make today– that have a ripple effect that we will likely never see.

God is, always has been, always will be, in the transformation business until such a time Jesus returns. More about that in a future post.

How does Rahab’s transformation inspire you in your own life?

In what areas of life do you feel like you need to exhibit more faith and courage?

Don’t forget to tell somebody about Jesus!

Rainer Bantau —The Devotional Guy™