CHURCH SCHOOL SUMUP

Theme: When Faith Changes Sides

Weekly Lesson

God’s Compassion for Rahab

Adults Topic: Joining Forces with Unlikely Allies

Rahab lived inside Jericho, but her faith was already moving beyond Jericho. She had heard what God had done for Israel, believed what she heard, and made a decision to align herself with what God was doing. Her story reminds us that God can see faith where we may only see history, and unlikely does not mean unusable.

Scripture Focus

Joshua 2:8–13; 6:16–17

Rahab confessed that Israel’s God was truly “God in heaven above and on earth below.” But her confession did not remain words. She protected the spies, sought mercy for her family, and acted upon what she believed. Rahab challenges us to move from hearing about God → believing God → acting on what we believe.

Hymnology

“O Zion, Haste, Thy Mission High Fulfilling”

This week’s hymn reminds the Church that the message of salvation must move beyond the boundaries of those already gathered inside. Somewhere there is another Rahab—someone others may overlook, but whose heart is already responding to God. Zion cannot fulfill her mission if we only make room for people who already look like Zion.

Key Takeaway

God sees faith where we may only see history. Rahab’s past did not determine her purpose. The woman introduced as an outsider to Israel’s covenant community ultimately became part of Israel – and part of the genealogy of Jesus Christ. Remember: Unlikely does not mean unusable. Outsider does not mean unreachable. Past does not determine purpose.

Application Prompt

Who have I already decided God probably cannot, or will not, use? This week, ask God to help you look beyond labels, history, and your own expectations. Could God already be working in someone you have overlooked? And where is God asking you to move beyond simply hearing what He has said and begin acting on what you believe?

This Week’s Affirmation

I will believe what God has revealed, act on my faith, and make room for those He is drawing, knowing God can use unlikely people to accomplish His purpose. Believe. Act. Make room.