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Faith Beyond the Expected

Franklin Avenue Baptist Church · New Orleans, LA Preached Sunday, Aug 23, 2026 Joshua 2:1-11

In this message from Franklin Avenue Baptist Church, the pastor explores Rahab's story in Joshua 2 as part of a month-long series on faith drawn from Hebrews 11. The sermon highlights how God's grace can place even the most unexpected individuals among the faithful. The service also celebrated nine baptisms, reflecting the congregation's commitment to public profession of faith.

9AM Worship Service

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Video Clips 6 clips

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5-Day Devotional 5 days

“Rahab shouldn't have made the list. In the Bible's great "Hall of Faith", a chapter filled with patriarchs, prophets, and heroes, there's a prostitute from Jericho.”

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Small Group Discussion Guide

“Because of the unconditional love of God, because of the unforgettable mercy of God, and because of the amazing grace of God, Rahab went from being a harlot to a hero.”

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Instagram Posts 3 posts

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Sermon Quiz

“According to Joshua 2, where did Rahab hide the two Israelite spies sent by Joshua?”

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Small Group Deep Study Guide

“Rahab had no covenant standing, no family connection to Israel, no religious credentials. What she received was pure, unearned grace. This is the theological engine of her story.”

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Facebook Posts 3 posts

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Individual Study Guide

“Rahab's confession in Joshua 2:11 virtually quotes Israel's own creedal affirmation from Deuteronomy 4:39. A Canaanite prostitute speaks Israel's theology back to Israel's spies. This is a remarkable moment of Gentile inclusion in biblical theology.”

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Social Posts for Pastor 3 posts

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Pastor's Blog Post

“When the walls of Jericho came crashing down in Joshua 6, the entire city was destroyed, except for one house. Rahab's house. When the dust settled, her home was the only one still standing. That's the favor of God.”

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Guest Blog Post

“There's a question most of us have quietly asked ourselves at some point: Is it too late for me? Have I done too much, gone too far, or made too many mistakes for God to do anything meaningful with my life?”

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Social Posts for Volunteers 3 posts

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Golden Moments

“He did it for Rahab. He did it for me. He'll do it for you. Does that mean you'll be perfect? No. I still make mistakes. I still mess up. But God is a God of another chance.”

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Questions this sermon answers

What does it mean to follow Jesus in baptism?

According to this sermon, baptism is a public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ. Drawing from Acts 2, it follows repentance and signals that a person has given their heart to the Lord. It is a joyful, communal celebration, heaven itself rejoices over each soul that comes to repentance.

How do I know God keeps his promises?

This sermon teaches that God's promises are reliable and enduring. Romans 8:28 is cited: all things work together for good for those who love God. Even when circumstances are hard or don't look promising, trusting God means believing he will deliver, provide, and do exceedingly above what you can imagine.

Why is faith so important for a Christian?

This sermon, based on Hebrews 11's 'hall of faith,' teaches that faith is God's design for his people. Even unlikely individuals are included in the hall of faith by God's grace. Walking by faith means trusting God when things are difficult, knowing he will never leave or forsake you.

More sermons on Joshua, faith, salvation, worship.

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