In a recent episode of Grace to You, John MacArthur turns to Hebrews 11 to ask what it means to live a faith that pleases God. He uses the story of Joshua and the harlot Rahab to illustrate that faith is not about results, but about trust, obedience, and courage.

Faith Beyond the Promise

MacArthur begins by looking at the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph—who all died before the covenant’s fulfillment. Their faith, he notes, was not measured by the promises being realized but by a steadfast trust in God’s word. He invites listeners to consider whether their own faith is rooted in trust rather than expectation.

Obedience in the Face of the Impossible

The next illustration is the fall of Jericho. The Israelites were commanded to march around the city for six days and then seven times on the seventh day. MacArthur points out how this seemingly absurd order demonstrates faith that is willing to obey, even when the outcome is uncertain. He then turns to Rahab, who hid the spies and was spared when the city was destroyed. Her story shows that faith can arise in the most unlikely hearts.

God’s Use of Unlikely Heroes

MacArthur highlights how Joshua and Rahab are listed side by side in the Hall of Faith and how Rahab appears in the genealogy of Jesus. He emphasizes that God can use anyone—regardless of past sin or social status—to accomplish His purposes. The lesson invites listeners to see their own potential to be part of God’s story.

To hear how John MacArthur unpacks these themes and offers practical insight into living a faith that pleases God, listen to the full episode.