Rahab lived in Jericho which was one of the principal seats of idol worship, The people worshipped Ashtoreth, the goddess of the moon. It is clear that Rahab was perceptive, intelligent and well informed. Rahab identified the spies and hid them, and deceived the king's men with a convincing story.

Spiritually, Rahab was not in an ideal situation to be able to accept the God of Israel. She was a citizen of a wicked city that was under God's condemnation. Rahab was part of a corrupt, depraved, pagan society. She was not part of the Israelites who enjoyed God’s favour in difficult situations. However, Rahab had one asset—she had heard about the power of God who enabled the Israelites to escape from their captivity and she had heard about their victories. She came to the conclusion: "For the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below" (Joshua 2:11). Rahab heard about God and her heart was moved towards the God of Israelites. Of course those who discussed the victories of the Israelites may not have realized the power of their words. What we speak has power to influence people. Our words can direct people to the Almighty God. Unless people hear the word how will they accept the true God. It is this change of heart, this faith—coupled with the actions prompted by faith—that saved her and her family.

She was, in fact, the first Gentile convert. She was saved from destruction because of her faith and trust. Nothing more is expected of a believer but faith without action is dead. She had to put a scarlet cord out of the window declaring her faith. As believers we are called to do something different from the world. Does our life exhibit the saving power of the blood of Christ? If the world cannot see the difference how can we hope to be saved? Of course we are saved by grace but we are expected to show our faith through our actions which alone can proclaim and validate our faith. Without the red cord, Rahab could not have been saved. Mere faith could not have made grace available to her.

Once Rahab obeys and decides to give up her former pattern of life, she is exalted and is found worthy to be a part of the lineage of Jesus Christ. Yes when we are saved by the blood of Christ and retain our salvation by our faithful dependence on Him and appropriate actions we are elevated to the position of co-heirs of Christ Jesus.

Rahab heard and believed. Her belief encouraged her to make the right choice, Her faith, trust and her action blessed her. Isn’t this the experience of every Christian? Faith without action cannot bring deliverance and fulfillment.

Dr. (Mrs.) Edriana Jeyasingh