Joshua 6:20
Verse
Context
The Walls of Jericho
19For all the silver and gold and all the articles of bronze and iron are holy to the LORD; they must go into His treasury.”20So when the rams’ horns sounded, the people shouted. When they heard the blast of the horn, the people gave a great shout, and the wall collapsed. Then all the people charged straight into the city and captured it.21At the edge of the sword they devoted to destruction everything in the city—man and woman, young and old, oxen, sheep, and donkeys.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The people shouted with a great shout, that the wall fell down - There has been much learned labor spent to prove that the shouting of the people might be the natural cause that the wall fell down! To wait here, either to detail or refute any such arguments, would be lost time: enough of them may be seen in Scheuchzer. The whole relation evidently supposes it to have been a supernatural interference, as the blowing of the trumpets, and the shouting of the people, were too contemptible to be used even as instruments in this work, with the expectation of accomplishing it in a natural way.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
THE WALLS FALL DOWN. (Jos 6:20-21) So the people shouted when the priests blew with the trumpets--Towards the close of the seventh circuit, the signal was given by Joshua, and on the Israelites' raising their loud war cry, the walls fell down, doubtless burying multitudes of the inhabitants in the ruins, while the besiegers, rushing in, consigned everything animate and inanimate to indiscriminate destruction (Deu 20:16-17). Jewish writers mention it as an immemorial tradition that the city fell on the Sabbath. It should be remembered that the Canaanites were incorrigible idolaters, addicted to the most horrible vices, and that the righteous judgment of God might sweep them away by the sword, as well as by famine or pestilence. There was mercy mingled with judgment in employing the sword as the instrument of punishing the guilty Canaanites, for while it was directed against one place, time was afforded for others to repent.
John Gill Bible Commentary
So the people shouted when the priests blew with the trumpets,.... As Joshua had charged them, Jos 6:16, and it came to pass, when the people heard the sound of the trumpet, and the people shouted with a great shout; that is, gave a loud shout, on hearing the long blast of the trumpets blown by the priests the seventh time, as they were no doubt directed by Joshua, agreeably to the order given to him; see Jos 6:5, that the wall fell down flat; the wall of the city of Jericho, as the Lord said it should; see Gill on Jos 6:5, so that the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they took the city; they went up to it from the plain, where they were, and entered it without any difficulty, the wall being fallen, and that everywhere: so that they went directly from the place where they were, and went in right over against them, into every quarter and, part of the city, and seized on it, and possessed it at once. Various things may be observed concerning this surprising event; as that it was supernatural, and cannot be ascribed to second causes, there being nothing in the procession round the city, the blowing of the trumpets, or shout of the people, that could occasion the wall to fall; and that no defences or fortifications are anything against God, when it is his will a city should be taken, with whom nothing is impossible; and that sometimes unlikely means are appointed and used by him for doing great things, that the power may appear to be his by which they are done; and that faith stops at nothing, when it has the word and promise of God to encourage and support it; and that God does everything in his own time and way. The falling of the walls of Jericho may be considered as an emblem of the fall of Babylon; these two cities agree, as in their greatness, so in their wickedness, Rev 17:4; and as Jericho stood in the way of Israel's inheriting the land, being a frontier and barrier town; so mystical Babylon stands in the way of the kingdom of Christ, and its spread in the world, and particularly of the conversion of the Jews, Rev 11:14. The fall of Jericho was very sudden, and when not expected by the inhabitants of it; and so will be the fall of Babylon, Rev 18:7; and as Jericho fell at the sound of rams horns, the destruction of antichrist, or mystical Babylon, will be through the preaching of the Gospel, Rev 14:6; and as the one was by the sounding of seven priests, at the seventh time of sounding, on the seventh day; so the ruin of antichrist will be at the seventh angel's sounding the seventh trumpet, and pouring out the seventh vial, Rev 10:7; and as at the destruction of the one, so of the other, but few saved from the common calamity, Rev 18:4; and both never to be raised up and built again, Rev 18:21; And it may be considered also as an emblem of the subjection of the Gentile world to Christ; which, like Jericho, or the moon, as some observe the name signifies, is very changeable; and as that city, and the inhabitants of it, an enemy to God, and his people, and yet made subject by the ministry of his word; as particularly it will be when the kingdoms of this world shall become his: or rather it may be an emblem of the subjection of particular souls to Christ, and the means thereof; who are like the walled city of Jericho in their unregenerate state, their hearts hard, stubborn, and inflexible, and enmity to God; are self-confident, vainly puffed up in their fleshly minds, and shut up in unbelief, and kept and guarded by Satan, the strong man armed; but all these strong holds of sin and Satan are brought down and demolished in conversion; and that by means of the sound of the Gospel, which is as despicable with men as the sound of the rams' horns were to the inhabitants of Jericho; but is a jubilee and joyful sound, a sound of love, grace, mercy, and salvation; and being accompanied with the Spirit and grace of God, is the power of God unto salvation; and mighty through him for the removing the hardness of men's hearts, and bringing them into subjection and obedience to Christ.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:20 Following Joshua’s last-minute commands, a final blast of the rams’ horns signaled the climax.
Joshua 6:20
The Walls of Jericho
19For all the silver and gold and all the articles of bronze and iron are holy to the LORD; they must go into His treasury.”20So when the rams’ horns sounded, the people shouted. When they heard the blast of the horn, the people gave a great shout, and the wall collapsed. Then all the people charged straight into the city and captured it.21At the edge of the sword they devoted to destruction everything in the city—man and woman, young and old, oxen, sheep, and donkeys.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Hebrews 11 - Part 7
By Leonard Ravenhill5.4K29:48JOS 6:20MAT 7:1ACT 6:8ACT 7:2HEB 11:33In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of faith and how it will be tested. He shares a personal anecdote about a young girl who remembered his sermon from three years ago and how it impacted her life. The preacher then discusses the story of Noah and how he had faith in God's promise of a flood, even though it had never rained before. He highlights the need for the church to be on fire for God and warns of a coming doomsday. The preacher concludes by reminding the audience of the examples of faith in Hebrews 11 and how these individuals accomplished great things without even having a Bible.
The Devil Is After One Thing in Your Trial
By Carter Conlon4.2K51:57Spiritual WarfareJOS 6:20JDG 4:6JDG 7:20JDG 11:32JDG 16:281SA 16:131SA 17:451CO 10:13HEB 11:31HEB 12:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having God's word deeply rooted within us to resist the devices of darkness. They rebuke depression and lies of the devil, declaring their salvation and God's plan for their life. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the victory found in God, as symbolized by the horse and rider being thrown into the sea. The speaker also highlights the necessity of studying the Bible and holding onto the promises found within it.
(Men Who Saw God) 4. Joshua
By Roy Hession3.0K54:42JoshuaJOS 6:20ISA 6:1ZEC 4:6MAT 6:33LUK 24:36ACT 9:3REV 2:17In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Joshua and the battle of Jericho. Joshua, feeling inadequate with his small army, encounters a man with a drawn sword who reveals himself as the captain of the host of the Lord. The preacher emphasizes that victory is never in doubt when God is the captain and His spirit is at work. He encourages the audience to have a personal relationship with God and to surrender their own ideas and initiatives to His guidance. The sermon also includes a testimony of revival in South Africa, where churches experienced a transformation when they let go of their own efforts and allowed God to work through them.
(Guidelines) Archaeology
By J. Vernon McGee2.8K02:19EXO 34:28JOS 6:20ISA 53:5MAT 6:33ROM 1:202TI 3:16HEB 4:12In this sermon, the speaker discusses how archaeology has provided evidence that supports the authenticity of the Word of God. They mention that in the past, some people denied the mosaic authorship of the Pentateuch because they believed writing did not exist during Moses' time. However, the discovery of ancient writings by archaeologists has disproven this argument. The speaker also mentions the excavation of the city of Jericho and the evidence of its walls falling down, which further supports the accuracy of the Bible. They briefly mention the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls and how they did not discredit the Bible as some liberals had hoped. Overall, the sermon emphasizes how archaeology has substantiated the Word of God.
Cranbrook 1993 10-4-93 Am
By George Warnock2.3K50:42SeminarEXO 15:23JOS 6:201SA 3:1ISA 43:181CO 14:8JAS 1:17REV 12:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of following the direction and orders of the captain of the hosts of the Lord. He uses the example of Joshua receiving the blueprint for the conquest of Jericho, where God instructed the priests to take trumpets and the Ark of the Covenant to walk around the city instead of using swords. The speaker expresses concern that many have misunderstood and misused the gifts God has given them. He calls for a humble and obedient heart, asking God to show them how to give back the glory and power they receive, so that it may ultimately glorify God.
(Through the Bible) Joshua 1-8
By Chuck Smith2.1K1:16:26DEU 31:11JOS 1:7JOS 3:3JOS 5:13JOS 6:20JOS 9:1PSA 1:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the excitement and importance of walking after the Spirit. He references the story of Joshua encountering a man with a drawn sword near Jericho. The man reveals himself as the captain of the host of the Lord and instructs Joshua to remove his shoes because he is standing on holy ground. God speaks to Joshua, encouraging him to lead the Israelites and promising them victory in every place they set foot. The preacher emphasizes the need for faith and obedience in claiming the abundant life and prosperity that God has already given to believers.
The Ark of the Covenant: Around Jericho Part Iii
By Roy Hession1.9K53:54Ark Of The CovenantEXO 3:5JOS 6:13JOS 6:20ISA 64:4MRK 11:24EPH 6:12COL 2:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of cooperating with God's instructions, even when they seem feeble or unlikely to bring about victory. He uses the story of Joshua and the battle of Jericho as an example. The speaker highlights the significance of shouting and praising God in faith, even before seeing the walls of opposition come down. He also shares a personal anecdote about the power of prayer and waiting on God's timing. The sermon concludes with the reminder that leaders are servants before God and that Jesus is the ultimate captain of the hosts of the Lord.
Ai - Spiritual Warfare
By Stephen Kaung1.8K1:02:07EXO 24:12JOS 6:201SA 4:3ISA 65:10HOS 2:15MAT 6:33ROM 8:37In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Joshua and the battle of A.I. after the victory at Jericho. Joshua sends spies to scout out A.I., a smaller city, and they report that it would be an easy victory. However, when the Israelites attack, they are defeated and Joshua is devastated. The preacher highlights that the defeat was a result of sin in Israel and emphasizes the importance of avoiding the temptation of worldly desires. The sermon concludes with God assuring Joshua that he will give them victory over A.I.
Victory or Survival - Part 3
By Winkie Pratney1.5K21:17EXO 14:21JOS 6:20JDG 16:281SA 14:6MAT 6:33ROM 8:311CO 12:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and putting our faith into action. He uses the story of Jonathan and his armor bearer to illustrate this point. Jonathan and his companion bravely attack the Philistines, even though they are outnumbered. Through their courageous act, God brings confusion and fear upon the enemy, causing them to fight amongst themselves. The preacher encourages the audience to seek fresh revelations of God's power and greatness, and to be prepared for the second coming of Jesus as the ruling and reigning king.
Gideon
By Norman Grubb1.4K44:12GideonEXO 3:14EXO 14:14NUM 31:1JOS 6:20JDG 6:11JDG 7:7MAT 6:33In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Gideon from the Bible. Gideon and his men were facing a formidable enemy, but God instructed them to use unconventional methods to defeat their foes. With only 300 men, Gideon followed God's instructions to blow trumpets, break pitchers, and shout, causing confusion and fear among their enemies. This unexpected strategy led to their victory, showing that it was God's power at work, not their own. The sermon emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and following His guidance in all circumstances.
The Inward Shout of Faith
By Carter Conlon1.3K42:04JOS 6:20PSA 18:16PSA 46:10HEB 11:1This sermon emphasizes the power of faith in God's ability to work miracles in our lives. It encourages believers to trust in God's promises, acknowledge their insufficiency, and rely on the finished work of Christ. The message highlights the importance of an inward shout of faith, believing that with God all things are possible, and stepping out in faith to see walls of opposition come down through the power of God.
Hebrews 11:30-31
By Don McClure1.2K40:38JOS 1:8JOS 5:13JOS 6:20PSA 1:1MAT 6:33HEB 11:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not just sitting in the premises of faith, but truly standing on the promises of God. He uses the analogy of a mountain climber who loses his grip and is hanging on for dear life, needing assistance. The speaker also references the story of the children of Israel who were on the brink of entering the promised land but allowed their own doubts and fears to prevent them from receiving God's blessings. He highlights the need for a new dimension of faith, trust, and dependence on God, rather than relying on human ways and instincts. Ultimately, the speaker emphasizes the consequences of unbelief and the importance of fully embracing the abundant life that God has promised.
Exhortations
By Chuck Smith94025:05ExhortationLEV 17:11JOS 6:20PRO 30:10PRO 30:33MAT 27:46In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of holding onto the promises of God. He uses the analogy of four beautiful and powerful creatures: the lion, the greyhound (or horse), the he goat, and the horse leech. These creatures represent strength, grace, and persistence. The preacher also mentions four things that are never satisfied: the grave, the barren womb, the earth without water, and the fire. He warns against mocking and disobeying parents, using the imagery of ravens picking out the eyes of the disobedient. The preacher concludes by acknowledging that there are things in life that are beyond human understanding.
The Test of Faith
By Randy Jones75041:33FaithEXO 14:13NUM 14:22NUM 14:28JOS 1:9JOS 6:20DAN 6:10JAS 1:2In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the story of the Israelites in the desert after their escape from Egypt. He emphasizes how God allowed them to experience thirst and lack of water to test their trust in Him. Despite witnessing miracles like the parting of the Red Sea and the provision of water from a rock, the Israelites still struggled with unbelief. The speaker relates this to his own personal experiences of doubting God's provision and guidance. He concludes by highlighting the importance of trusting in God and the potential for a new generation to rise up in faith and turn the world upside down.
Victorious Life
By Basilea Schlink57904:35Radio ShowJOS 6:20MAT 26:28ROM 8:37EPH 1:7HEB 9:141JN 1:7REV 12:11In this sermon, Basilias Schlink discusses the power of God and how believers can experience it in their lives. He acknowledges that many believers have knowledge about salvation and the power of the cross, but struggle to be freed from their sins. Schlink emphasizes that the blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin and that even if we don't see immediate change, the stronghold of sin will eventually fall. He encourages believers to have triumphant faith, praising the victory of Jesus and proclaiming His redemption over their sins. Schlink also emphasizes the importance of examining our consciences, confessing our sins, and claiming the redeeming power of Jesus' blood.
Old Testament Survey - Part 26
By Dick Woodward50127:28JOS 1:9JOS 6:20PSA 27:13JHN 2:5HEB 11:31This sermon delves into the book of Joshua as a powerful illustration of faith, contrasting it with the book of Numbers which focuses on unbelief. It highlights the perpetuation of faith from Moses to Joshua, the perplexities and problems of faith, and the importance of obedient faith. The sermon emphasizes the need for practical faith that walks and works, using the story of the battle of Jericho as a prime example of faith in action.
Gospel Meetings s.h.c.- 11 Rahab the Harlot
By Stan Ford45444:24EXO 12:5JOS 6:20JOS 6:25MAT 7:24ROM 15:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that God is speaking, saving, and satisfying in our lives. He highlights the importance of listening and trusting in God's voice. The preacher mentions the story of Joshua and how God spoke to him, encouraging him to be strong and courageous. The sermon also emphasizes God's love and power in delivering us from sin and leading us into a life of fulfillment and purpose.
Old Testament Survey - Part 27
By Dick Woodward42227:31JOS 6:20This sermon delves into the book of Joshua, contrasting faith with unbelief as illustrated through the conquest of Jericho and the defeat at Ai due to sin. It emphasizes the practicality of faith, the importance of seeking God's will, discerning spiritual obstacles, and fully conquering our 'spiritual Canaan' by addressing sin. The sermon concludes with a call to take a firm position of faith, following Joshua's example to serve the Lord wholeheartedly.
Progress Made in Preparation
By Maria Woodworth-Etter1JOS 6:20JOL 2:28MAT 3:11MAT 25:14ACT 1:81JN 5:4Maria Woodworth-Etter shares her journey of reluctance and excuses before finally surrendering to God's call to preach, emphasizing the need to trust in His strength and wisdom rather than personal abilities. Through a vision, Jesus encourages her to share the glory of God, the love of Jesus, and the call to repentance, assuring His presence and power. Despite facing doubts and societal challenges as a woman preacher, Maria is reminded of the examples of women and children used by God throughout history, inspiring her to step out in faith and obedience.
The Qualifications for Soul Winning
By D.L. Moody0Soul WinningHumility in ServiceJOS 6:20JDG 15:15PRO 11:30DAN 12:3MAT 5:16MAT 28:19ROM 10:141CO 1:272CO 12:9PHP 4:13D.L. Moody emphasizes the essential qualifications for soul winning, urging believers to shake off the vipers of formalism, pride, and self-importance that hinder the church's mission. He highlights that true happiness comes from living for the salvation of souls and encourages a willingness to perform even the smallest tasks for Christ. Moody reassures that God can use anyone, regardless of their perceived weaknesses, and that courage and cheerfulness are vital in this endeavor. He illustrates that the most impactful work often comes from humble acts of kindness and genuine joy in serving others. Ultimately, he reminds us that those who win souls will shine eternally, as stated in Daniel 12:3.
Elisha's Faithfulness
By Zac Poonen0FaithfulnessSpiritual GrowthGEN 28:19JOS 5:8JOS 6:201KI 19:192KI 2:12KI 3:11MAT 3:13HEB 10:20Zac Poonen emphasizes Elisha's faithfulness and persistence in following Elijah, illustrating how God tests His servants at various stages of spiritual development. Elisha, initially engaged in secular duties, was anointed with a double portion after demonstrating unwavering commitment through trials at Gilgal, Bethel, Jericho, and ultimately Jordan. Each location symbolizes a stage in the Christian journey, from forgiveness to fellowship, supernatural power, and identification with Christ. Poonen challenges believers to press on beyond the initial stages of faith to receive God's best, which requires total surrender and commitment. The message encourages Christians to evaluate their spiritual journey and the tests they face.
The Seven Types of Faith
By A.B. Simpson0Types of FaithFaith in ActionEXO 12:13EXO 14:21JOS 6:20ACT 16:31HEB 11:23A.B. Simpson explores 'The Seven Types of Faith,' emphasizing the profound impact of faith in the lives of biblical figures from Moses to Joshua. He illustrates how faith manifests in various forms, such as faith for family, individual choice, separation from the world, and the appropriation of Christ's sacrifice. Simpson highlights that true faith requires action, as seen in Moses' choices and the Israelites' crossing of the Red Sea, culminating in the victory at Jericho. He concludes by affirming that faith not only transforms individuals but also empowers them to reach out to the lost, exemplified by Rahab's story.
I. the Three Walls of the Romanists
By Martin Luther0JOS 6:20MAT 18:15JHN 17:91CO 12:121PE 2:9Martin Luther preaches about the three walls built by the Romanists to defend themselves, hindering reform and causing corruption in Christendom. The first wall asserts the spiritual power's superiority over the temporal power, the second claims sole authority in interpreting Scriptures, and the third insists only the pope can call a council. Luther challenges these walls, emphasizing that all Christians are part of the spiritual estate and have the right to judge matters of faith. He calls for the removal of these walls to bring about true reform and uphold the authority of Scripture over man-made laws and traditions.
(Gaining God's Approval) 8. the Testing of Elisha and Gehazi
By Zac Poonen0CovetousnessFaithfulnessGEN 28:19JOS 5:8JOS 6:201KI 19:192KI 2:12KI 5:27PRO 10:22MAT 3:131TI 6:10HEB 10:20Zac Poonen explores the contrasting lives of Elisha and Gehazi, emphasizing Elisha's faithfulness and persistence in seeking God's highest calling, which led to his anointing, while Gehazi's unfaithfulness and greed resulted in his downfall. Elisha's journey through Gilgal, Bethel, Jericho, and ultimately Jordan symbolizes the stages of spiritual growth and the tests believers face in their faith. Gehazi's failure to resist temptation and his pursuit of material wealth serve as a warning against covetousness and the consequences of prioritizing earthly gain over spiritual integrity. The sermon highlights the importance of recognizing God's tests in our lives and the need to remain steadfast in our commitment to Him. Ultimately, Poonen calls believers to seek God's approval and blessings rather than the fleeting riches of this world.
What Is It?
By Ernest O'Neill0JOS 6:20MAT 14:25JHN 6:11JHN 11:43JHN 20:30ACT 3:6ACT 9:34ROM 12:22CO 5:17EPH 4:22Ernest O'Neill discusses the supernatural life that transcends human capabilities, citing examples from biblical accounts such as the Israelites' conquest of Jericho, Samson splitting a rock for water, and Jesus performing miracles like calming storms and raising the dead. This supernatural power continued through Jesus' followers like Paul, who healed the sick and raised the dead, demonstrating the ongoing impact of this extraordinary life on humanity. The ultimate transformation this supernatural life brings is a change in human nature, freeing individuals from past burdens and transforming their character, leading to a society sustained by those touched by this divine power.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The people shouted with a great shout, that the wall fell down - There has been much learned labor spent to prove that the shouting of the people might be the natural cause that the wall fell down! To wait here, either to detail or refute any such arguments, would be lost time: enough of them may be seen in Scheuchzer. The whole relation evidently supposes it to have been a supernatural interference, as the blowing of the trumpets, and the shouting of the people, were too contemptible to be used even as instruments in this work, with the expectation of accomplishing it in a natural way.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
THE WALLS FALL DOWN. (Jos 6:20-21) So the people shouted when the priests blew with the trumpets--Towards the close of the seventh circuit, the signal was given by Joshua, and on the Israelites' raising their loud war cry, the walls fell down, doubtless burying multitudes of the inhabitants in the ruins, while the besiegers, rushing in, consigned everything animate and inanimate to indiscriminate destruction (Deu 20:16-17). Jewish writers mention it as an immemorial tradition that the city fell on the Sabbath. It should be remembered that the Canaanites were incorrigible idolaters, addicted to the most horrible vices, and that the righteous judgment of God might sweep them away by the sword, as well as by famine or pestilence. There was mercy mingled with judgment in employing the sword as the instrument of punishing the guilty Canaanites, for while it was directed against one place, time was afforded for others to repent.
John Gill Bible Commentary
So the people shouted when the priests blew with the trumpets,.... As Joshua had charged them, Jos 6:16, and it came to pass, when the people heard the sound of the trumpet, and the people shouted with a great shout; that is, gave a loud shout, on hearing the long blast of the trumpets blown by the priests the seventh time, as they were no doubt directed by Joshua, agreeably to the order given to him; see Jos 6:5, that the wall fell down flat; the wall of the city of Jericho, as the Lord said it should; see Gill on Jos 6:5, so that the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they took the city; they went up to it from the plain, where they were, and entered it without any difficulty, the wall being fallen, and that everywhere: so that they went directly from the place where they were, and went in right over against them, into every quarter and, part of the city, and seized on it, and possessed it at once. Various things may be observed concerning this surprising event; as that it was supernatural, and cannot be ascribed to second causes, there being nothing in the procession round the city, the blowing of the trumpets, or shout of the people, that could occasion the wall to fall; and that no defences or fortifications are anything against God, when it is his will a city should be taken, with whom nothing is impossible; and that sometimes unlikely means are appointed and used by him for doing great things, that the power may appear to be his by which they are done; and that faith stops at nothing, when it has the word and promise of God to encourage and support it; and that God does everything in his own time and way. The falling of the walls of Jericho may be considered as an emblem of the fall of Babylon; these two cities agree, as in their greatness, so in their wickedness, Rev 17:4; and as Jericho stood in the way of Israel's inheriting the land, being a frontier and barrier town; so mystical Babylon stands in the way of the kingdom of Christ, and its spread in the world, and particularly of the conversion of the Jews, Rev 11:14. The fall of Jericho was very sudden, and when not expected by the inhabitants of it; and so will be the fall of Babylon, Rev 18:7; and as Jericho fell at the sound of rams horns, the destruction of antichrist, or mystical Babylon, will be through the preaching of the Gospel, Rev 14:6; and as the one was by the sounding of seven priests, at the seventh time of sounding, on the seventh day; so the ruin of antichrist will be at the seventh angel's sounding the seventh trumpet, and pouring out the seventh vial, Rev 10:7; and as at the destruction of the one, so of the other, but few saved from the common calamity, Rev 18:4; and both never to be raised up and built again, Rev 18:21; And it may be considered also as an emblem of the subjection of the Gentile world to Christ; which, like Jericho, or the moon, as some observe the name signifies, is very changeable; and as that city, and the inhabitants of it, an enemy to God, and his people, and yet made subject by the ministry of his word; as particularly it will be when the kingdoms of this world shall become his: or rather it may be an emblem of the subjection of particular souls to Christ, and the means thereof; who are like the walled city of Jericho in their unregenerate state, their hearts hard, stubborn, and inflexible, and enmity to God; are self-confident, vainly puffed up in their fleshly minds, and shut up in unbelief, and kept and guarded by Satan, the strong man armed; but all these strong holds of sin and Satan are brought down and demolished in conversion; and that by means of the sound of the Gospel, which is as despicable with men as the sound of the rams' horns were to the inhabitants of Jericho; but is a jubilee and joyful sound, a sound of love, grace, mercy, and salvation; and being accompanied with the Spirit and grace of God, is the power of God unto salvation; and mighty through him for the removing the hardness of men's hearts, and bringing them into subjection and obedience to Christ.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:20 Following Joshua’s last-minute commands, a final blast of the rams’ horns signaled the climax.