11:31

By faith Rahab: This woman developed genuine faith even though she was brought up among people who acted disobediently. The Canaanites, including those in Jericho, were so steeped in idolatry, gross immorality, and violence that God judged them worthy of annihilation. (Le 18:3, 24, 25) In addition, Paul calls her the prostitute (Jos 2:1), not to shame her, but to highlight that “her former life adds to the marvel of her repentance, faith, and preservation,” according to one reference work. Despite her immoral profession, when Rahab heard of how Jehovah blessed and protected his people, she was drawn to this God. (Jos 2:8-11) She put her faith into action by siding with Jehovah’s people. (Jas 2:24, 25) As a result, she and “her whole family” were saved. (Jos 6:23) She left the ruins of Jericho and her old life behind. (Jos 6:24, 25) In time, Rahab even married an Israelite, Salmon, and became an ancestress of the Messiah.​—Mt 1:5; compare study note on Mt 1:3.