The Sin of Achan: Seen by God, Called to Confess

Lessons of Faith from Joshua - Sabbath School Lesson 6 -  Monday 

The Sin of Achan

Scripture Focus: Joshua 7:16–19

In Joshua 7:16–19, we witness a solemn and sobering moment in Israel's history. God leads Joshua through a careful and deliberate process to reveal Achan’s hidden sin. Tribe by tribe, clan by clan, household by household—until finally, Achan stands exposed.

This slow and precise procedure reveals two powerful truths:

1. God’s Holiness and Justice

God knew exactly who sinned from the beginning, yet He allowed the process to unfold. This demonstrates His perfect justice—not rushing to judgment but revealing truth in a way that leaves no doubt. Achan could not hide, and neither can we.
Scripture reminds us:

“Be sure your sin will find you out.” — Numbers 32:23
“Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight.” — Hebrews 4:13

2. God’s Patience and Grace

Even in judgment, God showed grace. Achan had time to confess, yet he remained silent until confronted. God gave room for repentance, but Achan resisted until exposure was unavoidable. Grace was extended, but judgment followed when grace was rejected.

“My Son” — A Call of Compassion

When Joshua says to Achan, “My son” (Joshua 7:19), it is not sarcasm or cold formality. It reflects a shepherd’s heart—even toward one who sinned. Joshua appeals to Achan with dignity and compassion, urging him to “give glory to the Lord… and tell me what you have done.”

This tender address reveals God's heart through His servant:

• God does not delight in judgment

• God desires confession and restoration

• God moves toward sinners with love before justice falls

Living with the God Who Sees

Knowing that God sees everything—our actions, motives, and even our hidden thoughts—can feel sobering. It should.

But it also brings comfort.

There is no sin so hidden He cannot forgive it when brought into the light. And there is no pain, struggle, or secret cry He does not notice.

How does this knowledge impact us?

• It keeps us humble

• It calls us to integrity even when no one else is watching

• It guards us from the lie that private sin has private consequences

• It draws us closer to God, who sees and still loves

How should it change us?

We live openly before God—not hiding, not pretending, but walking in confession, honesty, and daily surrender. We live as people who both fear God’s holiness and trust His mercy.

“Search me, O God, and know my heart… see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” — Psalm 139:23–24

---

Prayer

Father,
You are holy, just, and full of grace. Nothing is hidden from Your sight. Search my heart and reveal anything that dishonors You. Give me the courage to confess, the humility to turn from sin, and the faith to trust Your forgiveness. Help me live with integrity, knowing Your eyes are always upon me—not to condemn me, but to guide me into holiness and life.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

More: The Enemy Within - Sabbath School Lesson 6 - The Lessons of Faith from Joshua

Sabbath School Quarterly Online: The Lessons of Faith from Joshua