Faith Beyond Worthiness: The Legacy of Rahab

 

Summary

In today's gathering, we explored the profound story of Rahab from the book of Joshua, a narrative that challenges our perceptions of worthiness and faith. Rahab, a woman of seemingly low status, played a pivotal role in the history of Israel and ultimately in the lineage of Jesus Christ. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of faith and the unexpected ways God can use anyone for His purposes.

We began by acknowledging the long-awaited answered prayers for our community, particularly the opportunity to share the gospel within local schools. This is a moment of celebration and a call to continue praying for the ripple effects of these efforts. As we delved into the book of Joshua, we reflected on the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua, emphasizing the daunting task Joshua faced in leading the Israelites into the Promised Land. This transition mirrors our own feelings of inadequacy when called to step into roles that seem beyond our capabilities.

Rahab's story is a powerful illustration of faith in action. Despite her background, she recognized the power of the God of Israel and chose to align herself with His people, risking everything to protect the Israelite spies. Her faith was not just a passive belief but an active decision that led to her and her family's salvation. This act of faith not only saved her but also placed her in the genealogy of Jesus, highlighting the legacy that faith can create.

We are reminded that faith is not about our worthiness but about God's ability to use us despite our flaws. Rahab's inclusion in the lineage of Jesus serves as a powerful reminder that our past does not define our future in God's kingdom. Her story encourages us to step into our Holy Spirit-led assignments with courage, knowing that our actions can have lasting impacts beyond our immediate understanding.

As we concluded, we prayed for our mission team heading to Germany, recognizing that their willingness to serve is part of a larger legacy of faith that can transform lives and communities. We are all called to get up and lead in our unique assignments, trusting that God will provide and that our faith can create ripples throughout history.

Key Takeaways:

- Faith Transcends Worthiness: Rahab's story teaches us that faith is not about our perceived worthiness but about God's power to use us despite our flaws. Her faith led to her inclusion in the lineage of Jesus, showing that our past does not define our future in God's kingdom. [01:02:22]

- Faith in Action: Rahab's decision to protect the Israelite spies was an active demonstration of her faith. This act not only saved her family but also created a legacy that impacted the history of Israel and the lineage of Jesus. Our faith should lead us to action, trusting that God will use our efforts for His purposes. [01:06:18]

- God Provides Through Faith: When we step out in faith, God provides for our needs. Rahab's story illustrates that her faith in God's promises led to her protection and the salvation of her family. We can trust that God will provide for us when we act in faith. [01:07:10]

- Legacy of Faith: Rahab's inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus highlights the lasting impact of faith. Our actions, when led by the Holy Spirit, can create a legacy that extends beyond our lifetime, influencing future generations. [01:17:18]

- Embrace Your Holy Spirit-Led Assignment: We are all called to step into our unique assignments with courage and faith. Like Rahab, our willingness to act can lead to transformative outcomes, both in our lives and in the lives of others. [01:19:56]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [14:44] - Answered Prayers for the Community
- [17:19] - Transition of Leadership to Joshua
- [50:42] - Challenges in Teaching Scripture
- [51:31] - Joshua's Leadership and Faith
- [52:32] - Ordinary People, Extraordinary Faith
- [53:16] - Rahab's Story Begins
- [54:17] - Crossing the Jordan
- [55:11] - Spies in Jericho
- [56:27] - Rahab's Risk and Faith
- [59:31] - God's Work in Small Details
- [01:00:41] - Rahab's Declaration of Faith
- [01:01:34] - Leaning into Faith
- [01:02:22] - Faith and God's Provision
- [01:06:18] - Rahab's Faith in Action
- [01:07:10] - Faith and Legacy
- [01:17:18] - Rahab's Legacy in Jesus' Lineage
- [01:19:56] - Embracing Our Assignments
- [01:25:54] - Prayer for the Germany Mission Team

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: Rahab's Faith and Legacy

Bible Reading:
- Joshua 2:1-21
- Hebrews 11:30-31
- Matthew 1:5-6

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Observation Questions:

1. What actions did Rahab take to protect the Israelite spies, and what risks were involved in her decision? [56:27]

2. How did Rahab's declaration of faith in the God of Israel influence her actions and decisions? [01:00:41]

3. What was the significance of the scarlet cord in Rahab's story, and how did it serve as a sign of her agreement with the spies? [01:05:12]

4. How is Rahab's story connected to the genealogy of Jesus, and what does this inclusion signify? [01:14:49]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does Rahab's story challenge the traditional views of worthiness and faith within the context of biblical narratives? [01:02:22]

2. In what ways does Rahab's faith serve as an example of faith in action, and how does this relate to the concept of faith leading to works? [01:06:18]

3. How does the story of Rahab illustrate the idea that God can use anyone, regardless of their past, for His purposes? [01:07:10]

4. What does Rahab's inclusion in the lineage of Jesus teach us about the legacy of faith and its impact on future generations? [01:17:18]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on a time when you felt unworthy or inadequate. How can Rahab's story inspire you to step out in faith despite those feelings? [52:32]

2. Rahab's faith led her to take significant risks. Is there a situation in your life where you feel called to take a risk for your faith? What steps can you take to move forward? [01:01:34]

3. Consider the legacy you are creating through your actions and faith. What specific steps can you take to ensure that your faith leaves a positive impact on future generations? [01:17:18]

4. Rahab's story shows that our past does not define our future in God's kingdom. How can you let go of past mistakes and embrace the new identity God offers you? [01:14:49]

5. Rahab's faith was demonstrated through her actions. Identify one area in your life where you can put your faith into action this week. What will you do to make it happen? [01:06:18]

6. How can you support others in your community who may feel unworthy or inadequate, helping them to see their potential in God's plan? [01:09:32]

7. Rahab's story is a reminder of God's provision through faith. In what area of your life do you need to trust God more fully, and how can you actively demonstrate that trust? [01:07:10]

Devotional

Day 1: Faith Transcends Our Past
Faith is not about our perceived worthiness but about God's power to use us despite our flaws. Rahab's story in the book of Joshua is a profound example of this truth. Despite her background and status, Rahab recognized the power of the God of Israel and chose to align herself with His people. Her faith was not just a passive belief but an active decision that led to her and her family's salvation. This act of faith not only saved her but also placed her in the genealogy of Jesus, highlighting the legacy that faith can create. Rahab's inclusion in the lineage of Jesus serves as a powerful reminder that our past does not define our future in God's kingdom. Her story encourages us to step into our Holy Spirit-led assignments with courage, knowing that our actions can have lasting impacts beyond our immediate understanding. [01:02:22]

Hebrews 11:31 (ESV): "By faith Rahab the prostitute did not perish with those who were disobedient, because she had given a friendly welcome to the spies."

Reflection: Is there a part of your past that you feel disqualifies you from being used by God? How can you begin to see yourself through the lens of God's grace and potential today?


Day 2: Faith in Action
Rahab's decision to protect the Israelite spies was an active demonstration of her faith. Her actions were not just about self-preservation but were rooted in a deep belief in the God of Israel. This act of faith not only saved her family but also created a legacy that impacted the history of Israel and the lineage of Jesus. Rahab's story challenges us to consider how our faith can lead us to action. It is a reminder that faith is not merely a belief system but a call to live out our convictions in tangible ways. When we step out in faith, trusting that God will use our efforts for His purposes, we can create ripples that extend far beyond our immediate circumstances. [01:06:18]

James 2:25 (ESV): "And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way?"

Reflection: What is one specific action you can take today to demonstrate your faith in God? How can this action impact those around you?


Day 3: God Provides Through Faith
When we step out in faith, God provides for our needs. Rahab's story illustrates that her faith in God's promises led to her protection and the salvation of her family. Despite the risks she faced, Rahab trusted in the God of Israel and was rewarded for her faith. This narrative encourages us to trust in God's provision, even when circumstances seem uncertain or daunting. It is a reminder that God is faithful to those who place their trust in Him, and He will provide for us in ways that we may not always anticipate. [01:07:10]

Philippians 4:19 (ESV): "And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus."

Reflection: In what area of your life do you need to trust God for provision? How can you actively place your trust in Him today?


Day 4: Legacy of Faith
Rahab's inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus highlights the lasting impact of faith. Her story is a testament to how one person's faith can influence generations to come. Rahab's actions, led by her belief in the God of Israel, created a legacy that extended beyond her lifetime, influencing the history of Israel and the lineage of Jesus. This narrative encourages us to consider the legacy we are creating through our faith and actions. It is a reminder that our lives can have a profound impact on future generations when we live out our faith with intention and purpose. [01:17:18]

Psalm 145:4 (ESV): "One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts."

Reflection: What kind of legacy do you want to leave for future generations? How can your faith today contribute to that legacy?


Day 5: Embrace Your Holy Spirit-Led Assignment
We are all called to step into our unique assignments with courage and faith. Like Rahab, our willingness to act can lead to transformative outcomes, both in our lives and in the lives of others. Rahab's story is a powerful reminder that God can use anyone, regardless of their past, to fulfill His purposes. It encourages us to embrace the assignments God has given us, trusting that He will equip us for the tasks at hand. When we step out in faith, led by the Holy Spirit, we can be confident that our actions will have a lasting impact. [01:19:56]

Ephesians 2:10 (ESV): "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."

Reflection: What is one specific assignment or calling you feel God is leading you to embrace? How can you take a step of faith towards fulfilling that calling today?

Quotes


What Jake alluded to is that, if you don't know, I worked with youth in this community. And for over 20 years, more than that probably, so much prayer to make inroads into the high school, inroads to the campus, for moms groups, from Young Life, for Youth for Christ, for churches, just praying the opportunity to deliver the gospel inside the school. And I'm going to get choked up. This is answered prayer of 20 plus years of prayer for that. And it soaks it. Yeah, by all means, give it up for God. [00:14:44] (40 seconds)


And how that has overflowed into the other schools. I think of Andrew down at his house hosting a youth alpha for his school district. And so I really want you to embrace this moment of celebrating what's about to happen, but also praying for it. And I'm going to get choked up. This is answered prayer of 20 plus years of prayer for it. Praying that on the other side of this, that there will be testimonies of kids having been brought to the foot of the cross and surrendering their lives to Jesus. A ripple. You're going to hear that in my message. A ripple effect throughout the whole community and to go on into history. And so let's take some time to pray for that and go into worship. [00:15:24] (42 seconds)


And those are really big shoes to fill. Moses. Moses was no slouch when it came to leadership. He's memorialized through scripture as one of the highest levels of faith in leadership. And rightfully so. Rightfully so because it took a lot of courage. It took a lot of faith. And Moses didn't initially find himself worthy in that. He didn't see himself as one of those leaders that could take that mantle and go into his Holy Spirit -led assignment. And I'm sure many of us, of you, have felt that way. [00:51:31] (38 seconds)


I've mentioned a few times that I love the accounts of biblical history where we see ordinary people do extraordinary things. I think it's even more fun and more amazing when those ordinary people are deeply flawed and God still uses them. We're going to be looking at Joshua 2, so you can start turning there now. We'll be looking at Joshua 6 a little bit. One of those flawed but used people is in Joshua 2. And the story of her life just sends shockwaves through history, through the Bible. [00:52:32] (42 seconds)


When we heard this, we lost heart and everyone's courage failed because of you. For the Lord, don't miss this, for the Lord, your God, all capitalized, for the Lord, your God, in heaven and above on earth below. Your God is the God of everything. Was she fearful? Yes. Was she terrified? Yes. But I don't think it was because of fear. That she is risking everything. Something else is happening in this woman's heart. She has moved from a place of disbelief to a place of belief in faith. [01:00:41] (40 seconds)


She moved from fear into belief, into faith. Belief that the God of these strange and really scary people was the true God in heaven. This pagan woman who was surrounded by evil. Surrounded by traditions of multiple gods. She moves into a place where she is being transformed. Something's happening inside. She's experiencing faith. Now, don't become complacent with that word. That word faith. We speak on it so much and rightfully so, for good reasons. But for some, it may become Christian background noise. [01:01:34] (42 seconds)


You see, Rahab took her faith and showed how powerful it was by turning it into action. It didn't just come from her desire to be saved from destruction, though she wanted to. She wanted to save her entire family line. But her faith shows that she believed that a sworn agreement in the Lord's name is binding and powerful. No matter what happens with these men, her faith was in that binding agreement in the Lord, not just in them. By the Lord, she can be assured that her protection would come. [01:06:18] (42 seconds)


If you feel inadequate, if you feel unworthy, know that God sees so much more. He sees a child, like Psalm says, knit together in the mother's womb. I will praise you because I've been remarkably and wondrously made. Your works are wondrous, and I know this very well. My bones were not hidden from you when I was made. And so I will praise you because I've been remarkably secret. When I was formed in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw me when I was formless. All my days were written in your book and planned before a single one of them began. [01:08:20] (33 seconds)


In the case of Rahab, God sees a woman turning her back on a broken and far from him life and turning to the life God always desired for her. The life that he desired for every child in his creation. He saw her turning to him, to a life in God that would bring about blessing. Like our series really points to, she is getting up and moving, moving into her Holy Spirit, God -led assignment. In this moment, in this time. [01:09:13] (42 seconds)


Joshua said to the two, The two men who had scouted the land go to the prostitute's house and bring the woman out there and all who were with her just as we swore to her. So the young men who had scouted went in and brought out Rahab and her father and mother, brothers and all who belonged to her. They brought out her whole family and settled them outside the camp of Israel. They burned the city and everything in it, but they put the silver and gold and the articles of bronze and iron into the treasury of the Lord's house. However, Joshua spared Rahab the prostitute, her father's family, and all who belonged to her. Because she hid the messengers Joshua had sent to spy on Jericho and she still lives in Israel today. [01:12:48] (39 seconds)


That last truth, it reverberates through all of Israel and their history in amazing ways. You see, Rahab's willingness to get up and to lead out of faith goes far beyond the moment, that moment, in time. Look at Matthew chapter 1, an account of the genealogy of Jesus Christ. Yes, I'm going to go through a genealogy, and yes, it's another thing. They didn't assign this one to me. I chose this one all by myself. Genealogies are important, though, and you're going to see why. [01:17:18] (34 seconds)


The actions empowered by the Lord, used in his Holy Spirit, God -led assignments, can and will go beyond the moment that it existed in. It will make ripples throughout history, beyond our faith and courage and obedience in that moment. Faith will move forward. A new lineage, a new adoption, a new family, a new legacy, a new life, a new family, a new family, a new family, a new family, a new family, a new family, wouldn't you want it to be said of you what is said of Rahab in Hebrews? Look at Hebrews 11 .30. By faith, the walls of Jericho fell down after being marched around by the Israelites for seven days. [01:17:58] (41 seconds)


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Transcript
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