The Spies Leave Through the Window

Joshua 2:1-24

The Big Idea

Courage can include helping others wisely and following careful instructions.

The Bible Story

Rahab Helps the Spies

Joshua 2:15-16 tells how Rahab helped the two spies leave her house. Because her house was built into Jericho’s city wall, she let them down through the window by a rope. She directed them toward the hills and told them to hide there for three days, until the men searching for them had returned. Then the spies could continue on their way. This moment is part of the account of Joshua sending two unnamed men to explore Jericho. Rahab had already hidden them and recognized the LORD’s power. She had also asked the spies to protect her household, and they had agreed under specific conditions. The rope in this scene is used for their escape. The scarlet cord belongs to the instructions that follow and should not be shown in its place. The account later says that the spies hid in the hills, returned to Joshua, and reported that the LORD had given Israel the land. This page focuses only on their careful departure through Rahab’s window.

Themes

A promise of protection Courage in protecting others Faith expressed through action Following agreed instructions Recognition of the LORD’s power

Bible moment

The Bible moment

Look closely

What children can notice

Rahab helps the two spies descend by a rope through the window of her house, built into Jericho’s wall. She points toward the hills, showing their planned route and the careful, quiet nature of their escape.

Talk together

Talk about it

How did Rahab help the spies leave safely?
What showed careful planning in their escape?

For families, church, and class

Use this page

Use this page with Joshua 2:15-16 in family worship, Sunday school, or a classroom lesson. Explain that the rope and scarlet cord have different places in the account. Invite children to notice Rahab’s courage, the spies’ careful plan, and their direction toward the hills. Keep discussion gentle and avoid adding the later battle of Jericho.

Source note