Joshua:2

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* Verse 1-7 - Faith in God 's promises ought not to do away , but to encourage our diligence in the use of proper means . The providence of God directed the spies to the house of Rahab . God knew where there was one that would be true to them , though they did not . Rahab appears to have been an innkeeper ; and if she had formerly been one of bad life , which is doubtful , she had left her evil courses . That which seems to us most accidental , is often overruled by the Divine providence to serve great ends . It was by faith that Rahab received those with peace , against whom her king and country had war . We are sure this was a good work ; it is so spoken of by the apostle , James strkjv @2:25 . and she did it by faith , such a faith as set her above the fear of man . Those only are true believers , who find in their hearts to venture for God ; they take his people for their people , and cast in their lot among them . The spies were led by the special providence of God , and Rahab entertained them out of regard to Israel and Israel 's God , and not for lucre or for any evil purpose . Though excuses may be offered for the guilt of Rahab 's falsehood , it seems best to admit nothing which tends to explain it away . Her views of the Divine law must have been very dim : a falsehood like this , told by those who enjoy the light of revelation , whatever the motive , would deserve heavy censure . * Verse 8-21 - Rahab had heard of the miracles the Lord wrought for Israel . She believed that his promises would certainly be fulfilled , and his threatenings take effect ; and that there was no way of escape but by submitting to him , and joining with his people . The conduct of Rahab proved that she had the real principle of Divine faith . Observe the promises the spies made to her . The goodness of God is often expressed by his kindness and truth , Psalms strkjv @117:2 . in both these we must be followers of him . Those who will be conscientious in keeping promises , are cautious in making them . The spies make needful conditions . The scarlet cord , like the blood upon the doorpost at the passover , recalls to remembrance the sinner 's security under the atoning blood of Christ ; and that we are to flee thereto for refuge from the wrath of a justly offended God . The same cord Rahab used for the saving of these Israelites , was to be used for her own safety . What we serve and honour God with , we may expect he will bless , and make useful to us . * Verse 22-24 - The report the spies brought was encouraging . All the people of the country faint because of Israel ; they have neither wisdom to yield , nor courage to fight . Those terrors of conscience , and that sense of Divine wrath , which dismay the ungodly , but bring not to repentance , are fearful forebodings of approaching destruction . But grace yet abounds to the chief of sinners . Let them , without delay , flee to Christ , and all shall be well . **** Matthew Henry 's Commentary ****

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