In “The Walls of Jericho,” you will witness the incredible story of Joshua, the faithful leader of the Israelites. Guided by God, Joshua sent spies to the city of Jericho, where they were protected by a courageous woman named Rahab. As the Israelites camped near Jericho, Joshua encountered the Commander of the army of the Lord, who instructed him on how to conquer the city. With unwavering obedience, Joshua followed these instructions, leading his people to victory as the walls of Jericho came tumbling down. This captivating story showcases the faithfulness of Joshua and the fulfillment of God’s promises to the Israelites.
Through this video by Saddleback Kids, you will witness how Joshua’s unwavering faith and dedication led the Israelites to overcome the city of Jericho. As they followed God’s instructions, the Israelites experienced the miraculous collapse of the city walls, reminding us of the importance of steadfast obedience and trust in God. This powerful Bible story serves as a reminder that God is always faithful to fulfill His promises, just as He did for Abraham, Isaac, Israel, Joseph, and Moses. Join Joshua on this captivating journey and be inspired by the strength of faith and divine intervention.
Background
Introduction
In the biblical account of the Walls of Jericho, a prominent figure emerges as the leader of the Israelites on their journey to the promised land: Joshua. Joshua was chosen by God to lead his people, and his faithfulness and obedience played a crucial role in the conquest of Jericho and the fulfillment of God’s promises.
The leader Joshua
Joshua, originally known as Hoshea, was Moses’ assistant and a trusted figure among the Israelites. After Moses’ death, God appointed Joshua as the new leader, instructing him to lead the Israelites into the promised land. Joshua’s name means “Yahweh is salvation,” which foreshadows the challenges he would face and the victories he would achieve through God’s power.
Spies in Jericho
Before launching an attack on Jericho, Joshua sent two spies into the city to gather information. Stepping into a city filled with uncertainty and danger, the spies relied on their wits and the protection of God. They were unexpectedly sheltered by a woman named Rahab, who later played a pivotal role in the events that unfolded.
Protection by Rahab
Rahab, a courageous and wise woman, showed kindness and faithfulness to the Israelite spies. She risked her own safety by hiding them on her rooftop and providing them with a plan to escape. In return for her assistance, the spies assured Rahab and her family’s safety when they returned to conquer the city. Rahab placed a scarlet cord in her window as a reminder to the Israelites of their promise, symbolizing her faith and trust in God’s deliverance.
Crossing the Jordan
Arrival near Jericho
After crossing the Jordan River, the Israelites found themselves camped near the city of Jericho. The journey to this point had been filled with trials and tribulations, but now they stood on the precipice of their first major conquest in the promised land.
Joshua encounters the Commander of the Lord’s army
One day, as Joshua was surveying the area near Jericho, he encountered a mysterious figure. This figure identified himself as the Commander of the army of the Lord, and Joshua immediately recognized the divine presence. The Commander revealed to Joshua the plan to take Jericho but emphasized the importance of following God’s instructions precisely.
God’s Instructions
The plan to take Jericho
God’s plan to take Jericho was unconventional and relied solely on faith in His power. Joshua was instructed to gather his soldiers and march around the city for six days. On the seventh day, the priests would carry the Ark of the Covenant while blowing ram’s horns. The entire nation of Israel would march around the city seven times, and at the command, they would give a great shout. It was through this act of obedience and trust that the walls of Jericho would fall.
Marching around the city
For six consecutive days, the Israelites obediently followed God’s command and marched silently around the city of Jericho. The sight of these marching soldiers must have struck fear into the hearts of the inhabitants of Jericho, as they knew the Israelites were a people guided by a powerful God.
Blowing the ram’s horn
On the seventh day, the Israelites prepared themselves for the climactic moment of the conquest. The priests carried the Ark of the Covenant while blowing the ram’s horns. The sound of the horns reverberated through the city, signaling the final stage of God’s plan.
The people’s shout
As the Israelites completed their seventh lap around the city, Joshua gave the command for the people to give a loud shout. The people followed his instructions, lifting their voices in praise and faith. Miraculously, at that precise moment, the walls of Jericho crumbled before them. It was a testament to the power of God and the faithfulness of the Israelites.
The Fall of Jericho
Shouting for victory
The Israelites’ shout of victory marked the beginning of the end for the city of Jericho. Their faith and trust in God were rewarded as the seemingly impenetrable walls of the city tumbled to the ground. The resounding shout was a declaration of their belief in God’s deliverance and their readiness to take possession of the promised land.
The walls fall
The fall of the walls of Jericho was a miraculous event that defied human understanding. It was a testament to God’s power and His faithfulness to His chosen people. Through Joshua’s obedience and the Israelites’ unwavering faith, God fulfilled His promise to bring down the fortified walls that stood in their path.
Israelites overtake the city
With the walls now reduced to rubble, the Israelites wasted no time in entering the city of Jericho. They overtook the city and claimed it as a victorious conquest. This triumph marked the beginning of their journey towards inhabiting the land that God had promised them.
Remembering Rahab
Rahab’s faithfulness
Rahab’s remarkable faith and bravery earned her a place of honor in the story of Jericho. Her protection of the Israelite spies and her unwavering trust in God’s promise made her an example of faithfulness. The Israelites remembered Rahab’s role in their victory and ensured her safety and that of her family, as promised.
Joshua’s fulfillment of God’s commands
Joshua’s leadership and obedience were vital in carrying out God’s plan. He followed every instruction given to him and led the Israelites with strength and courage. His actions demonstrated his deep faith and commitment to fulfilling God’s commands.
Taking other cities
With the fall of Jericho, the Israelites gained confidence and momentum for further conquests. Guided by Joshua, they went on to conquer many other cities in the promised land, as God had foretold. The conquest of Jericho was just the beginning of their journey towards the fulfillment of God’s promises.
Conclusion
God’s fulfillment of promises
The story of the Walls of Jericho is a powerful testament to God’s faithfulness and His ability to fulfill His promises. Despite the daunting challenges that stood in their way, the Israelites experienced firsthand the miraculous intervention of God in their conquest of Jericho. This victory served as a constant reminder that God always keeps His word and is present even in the most trying times.
Israelites living in the promised land
The conquest of Jericho marked a significant milestone in the Israelites’ journey to the promised land. With the walls fallen and the city overtaken, they could now establish themselves and live in the land that had been promised to their ancestors generations ago. The fall of Jericho paved the way for the Israelites to experience the blessings and abundance that God had in store for them.
