Joshua 6:17-21 is about the Israelites following God’s instructions to conquer the city of Jericho through faith and obedience, demonstrating the power of God to overthrow obstacles and secure victory for His chosen people.
17 And the city and all that is within it shall be devoted to the Lord for destruction. Only Rahab the prostitute and all who are with her in her house shall live, because she hid the messengers whom we sent.
18 But you, keep yourselves from the things devoted to destruction, lest when you have devoted them you take any of the devoted things and make the camp of Israel a thing for destruction and bring trouble upon it.
19 But all the silver and gold, and every vessel of bronze and iron, are holy to the Lord; they shall go into the treasury of the Lord.”
20 So the people shouted, and the trumpets were blown. As soon as the people heard the sound of the trumpet, the people shouted a great shout, and the wall fell down flat, so that the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they captured the city.
21 Then they devoted all in the city to destruction, both men and women, young and old, oxen, sheep, and donkeys, with the edge of the sword.
Setting the Scene for Joshua 6:17-21
The scene described in Joshua 6:17-21 takes place in the ancient city of Jericho. The Israelites, led by Joshua, have been wandering in the wilderness for forty years after leaving Egypt. Now, they stand on the cusp of entering the Promised Land. Jericho, with its massive walls, is the first city they must conquer to claim the land that God has promised them.
Joshua gathers his people, including the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant, outside the walls of Jericho. They have been instructed by God to march around the city once a day for six days, with the priests blowing trumpets made of ram’s horns. On the seventh day, they are to march around the city seven times, and when they hear a long blast of the trumpet, the people are to shout with a great shout. As they follow these instructions, the walls of Jericho miraculously collapse, allowing the Israelites to conquer the city.
The scene is filled with anticipation and faith as the Israelites follow God’s commands, trusting in His power to deliver them. The sound of the trumpets, the marching of the people, and the crumbling of the walls create a dramatic and awe-inspiring moment that solidifies the Israelites’ belief in God’s faithfulness and power.
What is Joshua 6:17-21 about?
This verse captures a pivotal moment in the history of the Israelites as they conquer the fortified city of Jericho by following God’s instructions. The act of marching around the city may seem unconventional and perhaps even illogical from a strategic standpoint. However, it serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, obedience, and trust in God’s guidance. It showcases how the Israelites chose to rely on God’s plan rather than their own understanding or military might. God caused the walls of Jericho to crumble, leading to their victory, by obeying His commands, they witnessed the miraculous intervention of God.
Imagine the faith and courage it took for the Israelites to march around a fortified city without any weapons or aggression. This story challenges us to reflect on our own trust in God’s plans and our willingness to follow His guidance even when it may seem unconventional or against our own reasoning. It reminds us of the power of faith in overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles and how God’s ways are often beyond our human comprehension. We can draw inspiration from the faith of the Israelites and remember that with God’s guidance, we can overcome our challenges and uncertainties.
Understanding what Joshua 6:17-21 really means
The passage in Joshua 6:17-21 recounts the dramatic fall of Jericho, a significant event in the Israelites’ conquest of the Promised Land. Joshua, the leader of the Israelites, obediently follows God’s instructions to conquer the city. The command to devote everything in Jericho to the Lord, except for Rahab and her family, symbolizes complete obedience and dedication to God. This act of devotion signifies the Israelites’ trust in God’s plan for their victory and their willingness to follow His guidance without question.
The key phrases in this passage hold profound meanings that resonate with timeless truths. The directive to devote the city and all its contents to the Lord emphasizes the importance of wholehearted commitment and surrender to God’s will. It serves as a reminder that true obedience involves giving everything to God, holding nothing back. The sparing of Rahab and her family highlights God’s mercy and faithfulness to those who demonstrate faith and assist His people. It showcases how God rewards those who trust in Him and act in accordance with His purposes.
Related biblical passages such as Hebrews 11:30-31, Deuteronomy 7:2-6, and James 2:25 further illuminate the themes of faith, obedience, and mercy present in the story of Jericho. These passages emphasize the significance of faith in God’s promises, the necessity of following His commands completely, and the inseparable link between faith and action. They provide a broader context for understanding the events in Joshua 6:17-21 and highlight the enduring principles that underpin God’s interactions with His people.
The relevance of this passage to people today is profound. It challenges believers to prioritize obedience to God above all else, even when His commands may seem challenging or unconventional. The story of Rahab serves as a powerful reminder of God’s mercy and grace towards those who turn to Him in faith, regardless of their past. Additionally, the warning against taking the devoted things cautions us against the dangers of greed and disobedience, urging us to remain steadfast in following God’s will and avoiding temptations that can lead us astray.
To illustrate the importance of collective obedience and integrity, consider a community project where everyone is called to contribute towards a common goal. If one person selfishly withholds resources meant for the project, it not only hampers progress but also undermines the unity and trust within the community. Similarly, the Israelites were cautioned against taking the devoted things, as disobedience would not only bring destruction upon themselves but also jeopardize the entire community’s well-being. This anecdote underscores the significance of individual accountability within the broader context of communal responsibility.
In conclusion, the account of Jericho’s fall and Rahab’s salvation serves as a poignant reminder of the power of faith, the necessity of obedience, and the boundless mercy of God. It challenges us to trust in God’s plans, act with integrity, and recognize that our choices have far-reaching consequences not only for ourselves but for our communities as well. As we reflect on this passage, may we be inspired to deepen our faith, uphold obedience to God’s commands, and extend mercy and grace to others as we walk in His ways.
How does faith overcome seemingly impossible obstacles?
Faith overcomes seemingly impossible obstacles by trusting in the power and guidance of God. The Israelites faced the seemingly insurmountable obstacle of the fortified walls of Jericho in the story of Joshua 6:17-21. However, by following God’s instructions and having faith in His promise, they were able to see victory in the most unlikely circumstances. This act of faith involved obedience, perseverance, and trust in God’s plan, even when it seemed impossible from a human perspective.
When faced with obstacles that seem overwhelming, faith gives us the strength and courage to press on and keep believing that God can make a way where there seems to be no way. We are able to overcome challenges that we could never overcome on our own by anchoring our trust in God’s faithfulness and power. This story reminds us that with faith, all things are possible, and God is able to do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine.
Application
Let’s take a cue from the Israelites in Joshua 6:17-21 and follow God’s guidance with unwavering determination towards success. Just like how they conquered Jericho through obedience and faith, we too can overcome any challenges that lie ahead. Let’s trust in God’s plan and have faith that He will break down any barriers blocking our path to fulfillment. So, will you join me in stepping out boldly today, embracing God’s purpose for your life?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.