The readings today lead to a conclusion of "wise and foolish." Israel, under Joshua's leadership, is weakened by Achan's violation of the holy covenant. (And Achan was stoned) Jesus concludes the Sermon on the Mount with the parable of the "Wise and Foolish Builders." In so many of the readings of the Bible two outcomes are possible. First, a wise outcome of following the covenant or commandments of God. Second, a foolish outcome of disobedience. How many stories of the Bible have these two themes? Is this not the first human story of Adam and Eve? Is this not the human story?
In regard to Achan's stoning is this because sins that lead a whole people astray lead to a stiffer penalty? Psalm 130:3 says "Lord if you kept a record of all sins who could stand?" I am a bit bewildered by the lack of mercy for Achan but notice the hope with this passage. Jesus does say in Matthew 7..."not everyone who says 'Lord' will enter the kingdom. So many Biblical teachings deal with wise, foolish, and the need of mercy. The "rock solid" teaching today is about destruction that comes from building on the sand.
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