The Fall of Jericho: A Study in Obedience and Divine Power
A study of the fall of Jericho, focusing on obedience and God's power.
1. The Number of Marches: A Detailed Account
1.1 The Initial Marches: Six Days of Silence
Verses: Joshua 6:3; Joshua 6:8-10
- God's specific instructions were to march around the city once a day for six days.
- The people were to remain silent during these marches.
- The ark of the covenant was central to the procession.
1.2 The Seventh Day: Seven Marches and a Shout
Verses: Joshua 6:4; Joshua 6:15
- On the seventh day, they marched around the city seven times.
- The priests blew the trumpets, signaling a change.
- At Joshua's command, the people shouted, signifying their faith and obedience.
2. The Significance of the Marches
2.1 Obedience as an Act of Faith
Verses: Hebrews 11:30; Joshua 6:2-5
- The repeated marching tested the Israelites' faith and obedience.
- It demonstrated that victory came through following God's instructions, not military might.
- The silence during the first six days emphasized reliance on God's power.
3. The Result of Obedience: Divine Intervention
3.1 The Miraculous Collapse
Verses: Joshua 6:20; Joshua 6:16
- The walls of Jericho fell miraculously after the final march and shout.
- This event demonstrated God's power to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
- It showed that victory comes not by human strength, but by divine intervention.
4. Applying the Story of Jericho to Our Lives
4.1 Lessons for Today
Verses: Ephesians 3:20; Proverbs 3:5-6
- The story of Jericho teaches us to trust God's plan, even when it seems illogical.
- It highlights the importance of obedience in receiving God's blessings.
- It reminds us that God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think.