Understanding Joshua 2:12

Verse: "Now therefore, I pray you, swear unto me by the Lord, since I have shewed you kindness, that ye will also shew kindness unto my father's house, and give me a true token."

Overview

In Joshua 2:12, the story revolves around Rahab, a woman who aids two Israelite spies in Canaan. This verse captures her plea for protection for herself and her family, showcasing the themes of faith, kindness, and covenant. Rahab's request serves as a significant moment of intercession, and her faith links her story with God's grace and redemption.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: Henry highlights Rahab's faith and courage. In a dangerous time, she chooses to act in faith rather than fear. He points out that her request for a "true token" indicates her understanding of the covenant nature of promises; it’s not just a simple request but a serious commitment to the relationship being built between the Israelites and her family.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes emphasizes the significance of Rahab's kindness and her appeal to the spies. He notes that her actions are not just about self-preservation but also demonstrate her belief in the power of the God of Israel, which she recognizes through their presence. This acknowledges the theme of divine providence and how God's plans often include unlikely individuals.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke comments on the importance of the “true token” that Rahab asks for, suggesting that it symbolizes the assurance of safety that God's people should seek. He explains that this act of securing a promise also parallels the covenant relationship that God establishes with His people throughout Scripture.

Key Themes

• Faith and Salvation: Rahab's faith stands out as she believes in the God of Israel and acts upon that faith, which leads to her family's salvation.
• Covenant and Promise: The request for a "true token" indicates the seriousness of oaths and promises in Scripture, showing how God’s promises are foundational to His dealings with humanity.
• Kindness and Mercy: Rahab’s act of kindness is reciprocated when the spies promise to protect her family, illustrating the mutuality of mercy that characterizes the relationships in both the Old and New Testaments.
• Redemptive History: Rahab, a Gentile, becomes part of the redemptive story of Israel, foreshadowing how God’s grace extends beyond Israel to all nations.

Bible Verse Cross-References

• Hebrews 11:31: "By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace." This emphasizes Rahab's faith and its consequence for her salvation.
• James 2:25: "Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?" This reinforces the theme of faith leading to action.
• Matthew 1:5: "And Salmon begat Boaz of Rahab; and Boaz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse." Rahab is highlighted in the lineage of Jesus, demonstrating her significance in redemptive history.
• Exodus 12:13: "And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you." This connects the concept of a sign or token in salvation to Rahab's request.
• Isaiah 54:10: "For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee." This relates to the kindness and mercy shown to Rahab.
• Romans 10:13: "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." This underlines the universal call to salvation, which Rahab exemplifies.
• Genesis 9:6: "Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man." The importance of life and protection resonates with Rahab’s plea for her family’s safety.

The Importance of Cross-Referencing

Understanding the connections between Bible verses, like those involving Rahab, allows for deeper insights into God's character and His dealings with humanity. Utilizing a Bible concordance and various cross-reference guides can enhance your study experience.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

Here are some methods to effectively use Bible cross-references:

• Utilize a Bible reference resource to explore themes prevalent in Joshua 2:12.
• Engage in cross-reference Bible study to draw parallels between Rahab’s story and other biblical figures, like Moses or David.
• Employ a cross-reference Bible study method focusing on personal application of stories similar to Rahab’s, finding meaning in her actions.

Conclusion

The story of Rahab in Joshua 2:12 illustrates a rich tapestry of faith, redemption, and the power of God's promises. By examining this verse alongside its cross-references, one can see the interconnected nature of Scripture and the themes that run throughout the Bible.

Ultimately, the narrative surrounding Rahab calls to every believer to recognize and act upon faith, sowing kindness and invoking God’s mercies, thus becoming a part of His unfolding plan of redemption.