Teach kids the incredible story of Rahab and the spies from Joshua 2! Help them discover God’s love, redemption, and purpose through fun and meaningful activities.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand how Rahab showed courage and faith in the God of Israel.
- Learn that God can use anyone, no matter their background, for His purpose.
- Recognize how Rahab’s story is a picture of God’s redemption plan.
Introduction: Try This!
Play a game of “Spy Mission”! Hide a few small toy spies around the room and let the children find them. Then ask:
“What would you do if you had to help someone in danger?”
Introduce the idea that Rahab made a brave choice because she believed in God—even though it could have cost her everything.
Memory Verse:
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 (NIV)
Bible Story Summary (Joshua 2)
The story of Rahab is found in Joshua 2. As Joshua prepared to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, he sent two spies to explore the city of Jericho. There, they met Rahab, a woman whose home was built into the city wall.
Rahab had heard of the miracles God had done for His people, like parting the Red Sea, and she believed He was the one true God. Even though she was not an Israelite, Rahab chose to help the spies. She hid them on her rooftop and lied to the king’s soldiers to protect them.
In return, the spies promised to save her and her family when the city was taken—if she tied a red cord in her window. When Jericho fell, Rahab and her family were rescued, just as promised.
Rahab’s courage, faith, and decision to follow God not only saved her family, but placed her in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:5). Her story reminds us that God welcomes everyone who chooses to trust in Him, no matter their past.
Lessons from Rahab’s Story:
- Faith leads to courage: Rahab acted with boldness because she believed in God.
- God uses unlikely people: Rahab had a past, but her future was rewritten by her faith.
- God honors faith and obedience: Her simple act of tying a red cord led to salvation.
- Redemption is for everyone: No one is too far for God’s love and plan.
Creative Ways to Teach This Lesson:
- Fun and engaging worksheets: Use worksheets that promote learning and independent work.
- Red Cord Craft: Kids can create their own “cord of faith” with red yarn or ribbon.
- Spy Hide & Seek: Use figurines or paper cutouts to play a hiding game based on the story.
- Story Sequencing Cards: Help kids retell the story in order using printable cards.
- Role Play: Let children act out Rahab hiding the spies and talking with them.
- Faith Journal Prompt: “If I had to make a brave choice for God, what would I do?”
Closing Encouragement:
Rahab’s story is a powerful reminder that no matter our past, God can give us a new future when we put our faith in Him. Encourage children to trust God boldly and remember that faith, no matter how small, can make a big difference.
Looking for More?
Want ready-to-use activities to reinforce this lesson? Check out the Rahab and the Spies Bible Lesson Printable Pack!
It includes coloring pages, story activities, engaging worksheets, crafts, and printables, all in English and Spanish, to make this lesson unforgettable and accessible for all learners.
