Focal Passage: Joshua 7:10-23
Have you ever been warned about something dangerous and ignored the warning?
I recently experienced this in my own home. My boys wanted to build a fire in our backyard fire pit, so we did. Before lighting it, I explained that fire is not something to play with because it can be dangerous. Despite the warning, one of my boys decided to pick up a hot ember from the edge of the fire. It did not take long for him to learn that his father’s warning was there for a reason! I am confident he will not make that mistake again.
Just as I warned my sons about a danger that could harm them, God gives His people warnings in His Word. Joshua 7 contains a sobering warning about the danger of hidden sin.
To understand the weight of this passage, we need to remember the context. Joshua was leading Israel into the Promised Land. God had just given them a miraculous victory over Jericho. After the victory, the Lord commanded the people not to take any of the devoted things from the city. He clearly warned them that disobedience would bring judgment. Yet one man, Achan, ignored God’s command.
In Joshua 7, we learn that Achan secretly took some of the devoted things, and the anger of the Lord burned against Israel. Achan likely believed that his sin would affect no one but himself. However, Scripture teaches us that sin never occurs in a vacuum. Hidden sin always has consequences.
There are four observations from this chapter that we should consider.
First, sin hinders our relationship with God. Achan’s actions were not merely a mistake; they were an act of unfaithfulness against the Lord. His sin disrupted fellowship with God and brought divine discipline upon the nation.
Second, sin hinders spiritual growth and victory. Before Achan’s sin, Israel had experienced remarkable success as they trusted and obeyed God. Yet after his disobedience, Israel suffered defeat at Ai. Their progress stopped because sin had entered the camp. When we cling to unconfessed sin, it can hinder our walk with God and our ability to experience the joy and growth that come through obedience.
Third, sin affects others. In verse 5, 36 Israelite men lost their lives because of Israel’s defeat. These were sons, husbands, fathers, and brothers. The consequences of Achan’s sin extended far beyond himself. Our culture often tells us that personal choices only affect the individual, but Scripture teaches otherwise.
Finally, sin must be dealt with. God commanded Joshua to confront the sin in the camp. What was hidden had to be brought into the light. The same principle remains true today. What we cover, God will uncover. If fellowship with God is to be restored, sin must be confessed.
Someone once said that sin will keep you longer than you want to stay, cost you more than you want to pay, and take you further than you want to go. Heed God’s warning today. Do not allow hidden sin to remain in your heart. Bring it before the Lord Jesus Christ.
Through His death and resurrection, He offers forgiveness, cleansing, and restoration to all who repent and trust in Him. B&