Achan, the Son of Carmi (Joshua 7)

2022-04-02

Achan the son of Carmi was called the troubler of Israel. His name even means troublesome. Sadly, he lived up to his name. Out of the thousands of Israel, he was the only one who broke the terms of the herem; everything was to be destroyed at Jericho. There was no personal spoil to be taken, but he took a Babylonian garment, and some gold and silver.

Because of this, Israel suffered a humiliating defeat at Ai, where they were supposed win easily (so they thought in self-confidence; Joshua 7:3).

You can see how this Scripture is fulfilled in the New Testament saying, “A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump” (1 Corinthians 5:6; Galatians 5:9). One man can ruin something for a multitude. A little bit of sin ruins everything.

But we ask ourselves, how this man could be so foolish. Surely, he would be found out. “...be sure your sin will find you out.” (Numbers 32:23). Of course, he was foolish. But how many times has every single one of us rationalized as this troubler did, saying to ourselves about some sin, that no one will ever find out? Every sin is a testimony to our lack of belief in God’s omniscience or His righteousness judgment.

And Joshua said, Why hast thou troubled us? the LORD shall trouble thee this day. And all Israel stoned him with stones, and burned them with fire, after they had stoned them with stones. (Joshua 7:25)