Exceptional Bible CharactersSample

Rahab was a young Canaanite prostitute living in Jericho. She was not one of God's people. Everything about her context was opposite to God's way. Yet, she put her faith in God, who she acknowledged, 'is God in heaven above and on the earth below'. Rahab put her faith in the God of Israel, whom she had heard about. Her actions in aiding the Israelite spies led to her salvation during the destruction of Jericho. Rahab was saved because of her faith in God (Hebrews 11:31) - just as we are saved when we put our faith in Christ (Ephesians 2:8). Yet while we are saved by grace through faith, true faith requires and is exemplified by action (James 2), demonstrated by Rahab looking after the spies. Rahab chose to leave her family, her culture, and her religion so that she could belong to the Lord. In the end, she married the Israelite Salmon, and her heritage of faith was great. She became the mother of Boaz, the husband of Ruth. And she is named in the lineage of Jesus Himself (Matthew 1:5). Rahab's past was wiped clean when she came to belong to God, and she was honoured.
Question: How does Rahab's story inspire and encourage you? Do you also have a past which God has wiped clean? Are you accepting of brothers and sisters in Christ who came to faith from a different background to yours?
Scripture
About this Plan

There are so many characters in Scripture, many who stand out in our minds as 'superheroes' for one reason or the other. Yet despite their amazing achievements, often it is their weaknesses, their struggles, which resonate with us and set an example for us to learn from. These exceptional characters provide 'superhero' moments, as well as more 'human' moments, which, can strengthen our faith and trust in God.
More
Related plans

Huge Hope: Major Power in the Minor Prophets

DON’T FIGHT ALONE: How Isolation Keeps Us Stuck in Anxiety and Why Community Helps Us Win Mental Battles

Commissioned: Passion to Purpose: Living the Great Commission

God Is Writing Your Story

Reclaim Easter

The Weight of Love: Reflections on Jesus' Death and Resurrection

Losing Lexi: One Mother's Story of Grace in the Midst of Addiction and Loss

Darkness to Destiny: Unleashing God’s Power in a Dark World

From Lament to Hope: Wellbeing and Happiness in the Psalms
