Joshua Chapter 6

Joshua Chapter 6: The Fall of Jericho

Introduction

Joshua 6 records one of the most famous events in biblical history: the conquest of Jericho by the Israelites. Jericho was the first city that the Israelites encountered as they entered the Promised Land. This chapter demonstrates God's power, Israel's obedience, and the fulfillment of God's promise to give them the land of Canaan.

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Verse-by-Verse Explanation

1. Jericho Was Securely Shut (Joshua 6:1)

"Now Jericho was securely shut up because of the children of Israel; none went out, and none came in."

• Jericho was a heavily fortified city with thick walls.

• The people inside were terrified of the Israelites because they had heard about how God had dried up the Jordan River and given the Israelites victory over the Amorite kings (Joshua 2:9-11).

• The city was in lockdown, showing that human strength and defenses were no match for God's plan.

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2. God's Instructions to Joshua (Joshua 6:2-5)

God gave Joshua specific instructions on how Jericho would be conquered:

• Verse 2: "See, I have given Jericho into your hand, its king, and the mighty men of valor."

  • Even before the battle started, God declared victory.

  • This shows God's sovereignty—He fights for His people.

• Verses 3-5:

  • Israel was to march around Jericho once a day for six days.

  • On the seventh day, they were to march around it seven times.

  • The priests would carry the Ark of the Covenant and blow trumpets.

  • On the seventh day, after the seventh lap, when the priests blew a long blast, the people were to shout, and the walls would collapse.

Key Lessons:

• Israel was called to trust God’s plan, even though it seemed unusual.

• The battle would not be won by military power but by faith and obedience.

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3. Israel's Obedience (Joshua 6:6-14)

Joshua relayed God's command to the priests and the people.

• Verse 6-7:

  • The priests carried the Ark, signifying God's presence.

  • The soldiers led the procession, followed by the Ark, then the people.

  • Everyone had to remain silent except for the sound of the trumpets.

• Verses 8-14:

  • They obeyed exactly as commanded, marching once each day for six days.

Why March in Silence?

• Silence helped them focus on God's presence rather than talking or doubting.

• It showed discipline and complete trust in God's timing.

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4. The Seventh Day and the Fall of Jericho (Joshua 6:15-21)

• On the seventh day, Israel marched around the city seven times.

• When the priests blew the trumpets, Joshua commanded the people to shout.

• "The wall fell down flat. Then the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they took the city." (Joshua 6:20)

Key Themes:

1. Supernatural Victory – The walls did not fall because of human effort but because of divine intervention.

2. Faith in Action – The Israelites demonstrated faith by obeying God's unusual battle plan.

3. Judgment on Sin – Jericho was under divine judgment because of its wickedness.

• Verse 21:

  • The Israelites destroyed everything as commanded, including men, women, and animals.

  • This was part of God’s judgment, ensuring that Israel would not adopt Canaanite idolatry.

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5. Rahab and Her Family Are Spared (Joshua 6:22-25)

• Joshua instructed the two spies to rescue Rahab and her family.

• "And Joshua spared Rahab the harlot, her father's household, and all that she had." (Joshua 6:25)

• Rahab’s faith saved her. She later became part of Jesus' genealogy (Matthew 1:5).

Lessons from Rahab:

• God's mercy is available to those who trust Him, regardless of their past.

• Faith leads to salvation.

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6. The City Is Cursed (Joshua 6:26-27)

Joshua pronounced a curse: "Cursed be the man before the Lord who rises up and builds this city Jericho." (Joshua 6:26)

• This curse was fulfilled in 1 Kings 16:34 when Hiel of Bethel rebuilt Jericho at the cost of his sons.

• This reminds us that God’s word always comes true.

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Theological Themes in Joshua 6

1. God Fights for His People – The fall of Jericho was entirely God's doing.

2. Faith and Obedience – The Israelites won by faith, not by military might.

3. Judgment and Mercy – Jericho faced judgment, but Rahab received mercy.

4. God’s Sovereignty – God's promises are always fulfilled.

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Conclusion

Joshua 6 is a powerful story of faith, obedience, and divine intervention. It teaches us that:

• Victory comes through trusting God.

• Faith requires action.

• God’s promises are sure.