Background:
Before you read the story of Rahab in Joshua, picture her in this scene. She is an inhabitant of Jericho, a great walled city. She is a Canaanite woman in a pagan culture that worships multiple gods, notably the god Baal and goddess Ashtoreth. These gods were associated with temple prostitution and the slaughter of newborns as offerings to Baal. Their worship rituals revolved around sensual sexual practices. Rahab is noted as a harlot or prostitute, in a culture that did not value purity. The home of Rahab was most likely an inn or tavern where prostitution was part of the business plan. Rahab was most likely the proprietress of this establishment. Now that you have on your eastern lens, let’s look at the rest of the story.
Memory Verse:
“No wonder our hearts have melted in fear! No one has the courage to fight after hearing such things. For the LORD your God is the supreme God of the heavens above and the earth below.” (Joshua 2:11, NLT)
Reflection:
As you begin this week’s study, pray that God will show you people in your life about whom you are making assumptions based on appearance.
Study Guide Available
For the corresponding study guide, please contact Melissa Renner at melissar@stonebriar.org.
