Rahab, whose story is related in the book of Joshua, is commended in the New Testament as an example of obedient faith (Heb. 11:31; James 2:24-26).

Considering her background, Rahab’s faith is remarkable; she was the product of a very corrupt culture (Gen. 15:12-16; Lev. 18:24-30).

Yet, despite her obvious moral shortcomings, she was prepared to trust in the might and mercy of Jehovah.

Faith Demonstrated by Rahab (Josh. 2:1-14)Promises Made to Rahab (Josh. 2:15-24)Promises Kept to Rahab (Josh. 6:17, 22-25)

Rahab is identified as a harlot four times in Scripture (Josh. 6:17, 25; Heb. 11:31; James 2:25).

Harlotry was a sinful and shameful practice, whether symbolic (Exod. 34:11-17; Lev. 17:7; 20:6; Num. 25:1-3), or actual (Lev. 19:29; Deut. 23:17-18; Prov. 6:24-35; 7:6-23; 23:26-28; 29:3).

By identifying herself with Israel, Rahab became accountable to the Mosaic Covenant, for the same standard applied to the native Israelite and also the stranger, i.e., proselyte (Exod. 12:18-20, 48-49; Lev. 16:29-31; 17:15-16; 18:26-29; 20:2; 24:16; Num. 15:30-31).

She is honored as an ancestor of Christ, and the mother of a good and godly man (Matt. 1:5-6).

She is honored as a heroine of faith (Heb. 11:31). She is also honored as an example of works (James

2:24-26).

Faith in God changes people: It can make a saint out of the lowest sinner.

Finally, consider also the example of Hosea, whose harlot wife was guilty of infidelity and immorality (Hos. 1:1-2; 2:1-7).

Yet, Hosea lovingly received her back, upon the conditional requirement that she demonstrate renewed faithfulness (Hos. 3:1-5).

In like manner, God will receive us back, if we bear fruit in keeping with repentance (Matt. 3:7-10; Eph. 5:6-14).