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A Prostitute's Theology

Joshua had learned an important lesson from his earlier "spy-life". Two many cooks spoil the broth or too many kooks spoil the story. Moses had sent 12 chosen leaders to spy out the Promised land and they had come back with the "good and bad" news. So, Joshua sent just two.

These two unnamed men encountered a frightened but wise woman at her workplace. In their interchange with Rahab, she opened her heart to the coming doom of her city but also expressed her confidence that there was hope for her family. Rahab was named because she would become an important figure in the distant future. 

Hebrews 11:31 says, By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies, was not killed with those who were disobedient.

That is a revelation! It was her faith in the LORD that saved her and her house. Look again at what she said. 

“I know that the Lord has given you this land - In her mind, and in fact, it was a done deal. The land was given. This was not only a bold declaration but it must have greatly encouraged the two spies. She uses the sacred name YHWH as she declares her faith in the coming destruction. This destruction had been anticipated for 40 years and there had been no seeking of repentance by the city dwellers. 

- and that a great fear of you has fallen on us, so that all who live in this country are melting in fear because of you. 

We have heard how the Lord dried up the water of the Red Sea for you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to Sihon and Og, the two kings of the Amorites east of the Jordan, whom you completely destroyed. 
11 When we heard of it, our hearts melted in fear and everyone’s courage failed because of you, for the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below.

12 “Now then, please swear to me by the Lord that you will show kindness to my family, because I have shown kindness to you. Give me a sure sign 13 that you will spare the lives of my father and mother, my brothers and sisters, and all who belong to them—and that you will save us from death.”
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