Fearless Faith with Rahab · Woodlawn Student Ministry

Scripture

Joshua 2:8–14

⁸Before the men fell asleep, she went up on the roof ⁹and said to them, “I know that the Lord has given you this land and that the terror of you has fallen on us, and everyone who lives in the land is panicking because of you. , ¹⁰For we have heard how the Lord dried up the water of the Red Sea before you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to Sihon and Og, the two Amorite kings you completely destroyed across the Jordan. ¹¹When we heard this, we lost heart, and everyone’s courage failed because of you, for the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on earth below. ¹²Now please swear to me by the Lord that you will also show kindness to my father’s family, because I showed kindness to you. Give me a sure sign ¹³that you will spare the lives of my father, mother, brothers, sisters, and all who belong to them, and save us from death.”

¹⁴The men answered her, “We will give our lives for yours. If you don’t report our mission, we will show kindness and faithfulness to you when the Lord gives us the land.”

Sermon Outline

1

FEAR OF GOD LEADS TO FEARLESS FAITH

FEAR OF GOD LEADS TO FEARLESS

Supporting Scripture: Joshua 2:9

⁹and said to them, “I know that the Lord has given you this land and that the terror of you has fallen on us, and everyone who lives in the land is panicking because of you. ,

Key Truth: Rahab saw what everyone else in Jericho saw—the power of Israel’s God—but she responded differently. She chose to fear (respect, trust, honor) the Lord above anyone or anything else. Her faith made her bold. Illustration 1: Think of a student who stands up to a bully. They are scared, but their respect for what is right is bigger than their fear of what could happen to them. Illustration 2: Picture someone who changes their friend group because they want to follow Jesus for real, not just fit in. Their respect for God outweighs their fear of missing out. Reflection Pause: - Why do you think Rahab responded in faith when others only felt fear? - What is the difference between being scared of God and respecting or trusting Him?

2

FAITH SHOWS UP IN BOLD ACTIONS

FAITH SHOWS UP IN BOLD

Supporting Scripture: Joshua 2:12–13

¹²Now please swear to me by the Lord that you will also show kindness to my father’s family, because I showed kindness to you. Give me a sure sign ¹³that you will spare the lives of my father, mother, brothers, sisters, and all who belong to them, and save us from death.”

Key Truth: Real faith moves us to take risks, even when it’s scary. Rahab did not just say she trusted God; she put her life on the line to protect God’s people. Her faith led to real action. Illustration 1: Think about a missionary who leaves behind comfort and safety to go share the gospel in a dangerous place. They do it because they trust God’s call. Illustration 2: Remember a whistleblower who risks their career or reputation to stand up for what is right. Doing the right thing is risky, but worth it when you trust the truth. Reflection Pause: - When have you had to do something bold because of your faith? - How does acting in faith sometimes cost us something?

3

GOD REDEEMS OUR STORY FOR HIS GLORY

GOD REDEEMS OUR STORY FOR HIS

Supporting Scripture: Hebrews 11:31

³¹By faith Rahab the prostitute welcomed the spies in peace and didn’t perish with those who disobeyed.

Key Truth: Rahab’s background did not stop God from including her in His plan. Because of her faith, she became part of Israel—and later, part of the family line that led to Jesus. God redeems every surrendered life. Illustration 1: A person with a criminal record gets a second chance, and years later, they mentor others away from the same mistakes. Their past does not cancel their future. Illustration 2: Someone grows up without a family, but God brings them into a new community where they are fully known and loved. God’s grace builds new stories. Reflection Pause: - Why do you think God loves using unlikely people for His work? - How can God use your story—mistakes and all—for something bigger?

Where it lands

APPLICATION Practical Steps: 1. Identify an area where you feel “disqualified” or unworthy. Tell God about it honestly. 2. Ask God to show you where you can act in faith, even if it feels risky or scary. 3. Look for someone in your life who needs bold encouragement or help this week. Take action as God leads. 4. Remember: God can use every part of your story for His glory. Leader Note: Challenge your group to take one risk for Jesus this week—big or small. Celebrate steps of faith, not just “results.” CLOSE / CHALLENGE Rahab did not let her past keep her from trusting God or stepping out in faith. The gospel is for anyone who trusts Jesus, no matter their background. J. I. Packer wrote, “True faith is neither a mere passive dependence upon Christ nor a self-centered exercise, but a lively reliance upon Him.” Gospel Tie-In: Because of Jesus, no one is disqualified from God’s love or purpose. His grace is for all who believe and act in faith—just like Rahab.