The conquering of the city of Jericho should have been the beginning of a series of victories for the people of Israel. Unfortunately, that is not what happened. After defeating the people of Jericho, Israel encountered a devastating loss in the small city of Ai (Joshua 7:2-9). This happened because someone had sinned by taking some of the banned spoils of war from Jericho (Joshua 7:10-15; 6:18-19).  Eventually, it was revealed to Joshua that Achan was the one guilty of this sin (Joshua 7:18-26). Because of one man’s sin, many Israelites died, and God’s presence left His people.

What can we learn from Achan’s sin?

Sin was real.

  • This is something that many in our culture deny. Most do not like to call out and acknowledge the reality of sin.
  • When explaining to Joshua why Israel did not experience victory at Ai, God plainly told him that it was because of sin. It was because Achan had violated the Lord’s standard.
  • Sin is real and serious in the eyes of God!

Sin was exposed.

  • While Joshua was unaware of what Achan had done, God was not (Psalm 139:2-12; Proverbs 5:21; 15:3; Hebrews 4:13). There is nothing that we can hide from God! This should motivate us to turn from sin whenever we are tempted.
  • While Achan tried to keep this sin hidden, God exposed it to all of Israel.
  • God may also expose our private sins in this life. Even if He doesn’t, the Lord will undoubtedly expose them on the Judgment Day (2 Corinthians 5:10; Ecclesiastes 12:14).

Sin impacted others.

  • Achan’s sin impacted the entire nation of Israel. Thirty-six Israelite soldiers died as a result of it. Achan’s family was burned and stoned. The journey for Israel was halted entirely.
  • Our sins can also have a rippled effect. They can impact our prayers for others (James 5:16). They can influence others to sin (1 Corinthians 5:6). They can hurt our influence with the world (Matthew 5:16).

Sin had consequences.

  • Achan and his family were punished for this evil (Joshua 7:15, 24-26). Achan’s family were probably guilty of trying to hide this sin also. Sin always puts people on a path to receive the wrath of God!
  • The ultimate consequence of sin is death (Romans 6:23). The “death” that Paul is referring to is spiritual death or eternal separation from God.
  • This is why it is essential that we always correctly deal with our sins (1 John 1:8-10).

Conclusion:

Where are you? Like Achan, are you harboring a secret sin?