Joshua 7: Achans Sin & Consequences

Introduction: Joshua 7 offers valuable insights into sin’s impact and the importance of obedience. It graphically illustrates the consequences of disobedience but also God’s mercy when sin is addressed correctly. This analysis aims to inspire believers by highlighting God’s holiness, justice, and mercy, as underscored in Joshua 7.

I. Joshua 7:1-5 – Achan’s Sin and Its Consequences
Achan’s sin was hidden from the Israelites, but not from God (Proverbs 15:3). As a result of his disobedience, the Israelites were defeated at Ai. These verses underscore the severe consequences of sin and how it affects not just the individual but the community at large (1 Corinthians 5:6). It also illustrates the importance of obedience to God’s commandments (Deuteronomy 11:26-28).

II. Joshua 7:6-9 – Joshua’s Response to Defeat
Faced with defeat, Joshua turns to God in prayer and mourning. His prayer (verse 7) reflects a heart broken by the consequences of sin. Joshua’s reaction demonstrates the importance of turning to God in times of distress (Psalm 50:15), and the necessity of acknowledging our failures and seeking His guidance (Proverbs 3:5-6).

III. Joshua 7:10-15 – God’s Response and Instruction
God reveals the reason for Israel’s defeat, highlighting His absolute holiness and intolerance of sin (Habakkuk 1:13). God’s instruction in verse 13 for the Israelites to consecrate themselves exhibits His expectation of His people to be holy and separate from sin (1 Peter 1:16). The instruction to bring the tribes and families before Him shows that God deals with sin directly and expects us to do the same (Ephesians 5:11).

IV. Joshua 7:16-21 – Achan’s Confession
Achan finally confesses his sin. His confession underscores the necessity of acknowledging our sins before God as a step towards receiving forgiveness (1 John 1:9). It also shows how covetousness can lead to sin (Exodus 20:17), reminding us to guard our hearts against such desires (Proverbs 4:23).

V. Joshua 7:22-26 – The Judgement of Achan
The judgement of Achan underscores the seriousness of sin and the certainty of God’s justice (Romans 6:23). The stoning of Achan and his family, while harsh, demonstrates the devastating consequences of disobedience (Deuteronomy 28:15). The creation of a memorial (The Valley of Achor) serves as a reminder of God’s justice and the consequences of sin (Psalm 9:16).

Conclusion: Joshua 7 is a potent reminder of God’s holiness, the destructive power of sin, and the importance of obedience. The chapter underscores the significance of personal responsibility and the communal impact of individual actions. Yet, within its sobering narrative, it also highlights God’s mercy and justice, reminding believers that while sin is destructive, confession and repentance can set the stage for divine mercy and restoration. It inspires us to live lives that honor God, to shun disobedience, and to seek His face earnestly in moments of failure and distress.