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…. The Curse Of Jericho. Josh 6:26 1 Kings 16:34. Ignorance Is Dangerous Over 500 years separated Joshua & Hiel Jericho’s battle fought around 1300 B.C. Hiel’s efforts occurred in 9th century B.C. Some might give Hiel a “pass” because of the passage of time
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The Curse Of Jericho Josh 6:26 1 Kings 16:34
Ignorance Is Dangerous • Over 500 years separated Joshua & Hiel • Jericho’s battle fought around 1300 B.C. • Hiel’s efforts occurred in 9th century B.C. • Some might give Hiel a “pass” because of the passage of time • Yet, Bethel & Jericho only 13 miles apart
Ignorance Is Dangerous • Most likely, Hiel loved his children…yet, he chose to ignore this curse • Illustrates most people are “ignorant” • God will hold people accountable 2 Chron 15:3 Hos 4:1, 6 6:6 • Those in ignorance can’t lead others to God Mt 15:14
Ignorance Is Dangerous • “Diligent knowledge” always overcomes “careless ignorance” 2 Tim 2:15 Acts 17:11
Evil Influences Are Destructive • Hiel is primarily responsible for his actions • Yet, through one’s influence, others can be led astray Mt 18:6-7 • When Hiel rebuilt Jericho, Ahab was king in Israel 1 Kings 16:33-34 • “…in his days” Ù a reference to Ahab
Evil Influences Are Destructive • When Hiel rebuilt Jericho, Ahab was king in Israel 1 Kings 16:33-34 • Ahab = “exceedingly wicked” • Hiel was from Bethel 1 Kings 12:29 • Most likely…also influenced by Jeroboam • Hiel had been led in a certain direction
Evil Influences Are Destructive • One would think after Hiel lost his 1st born, he would have stopped rebuilding Jericho • Illustrates the power of unbelief…especially when led astray cp. Lk 23:35-37, 39 • Hiel returned to work after burying his 1st born only to bury his youngest son
Evil Influences Are Destructive • How corruptive evil companions are !! 1 Cor 15:33
God’s Word Is Unfailing • Most impressive in all this story • It always stands true…will be vindicated Isa 55:10-11 • Hiel should have known that if God said it, it would happen • Time passing doesn’t matter 2 Pet 3:3-8
God’s Word Is Unfailing • Hiel should have known that if God said it, it would happen • His word doesn’t pass away Mt 24:35 • What has gone forth from the Lord’s lips will not be altered Psa 89:34
Jericho was not to be rebuilt Conclusion • Israel stood in Jericho’s ashes Josh 6:24 • They had marched, blown, and shouted • They had taken the city successfully • All except Achan had obeyed the Lord • God had 1 more command…
Conclusion • We are quick to take comfort in rewards God promises for faithfulness • We also need to not ignore warnings He promises for disobedience • God is not a man that lies Num 23:19 • His character has 2 “sides” Rom 11:22
Conclusion • We need to beware the actions of Hiel… lest we also fall under the “curse” Gal 1:6-9