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It might be well for us to consider here one of the types of the antichrist found in the history of Israel. A man who bore the prophetic name which indicated exactly what he would become; Achan (troubler) or Achor, the troubler of Israel, who transgressed in the thing accursed. 1 Chron. 2:7 When Israel conquered Jericho all the valuable metals were to be consecrated unto the Lord and be taken into the sanctuary of the Lord.
No one was to take anything for themselves under the sentence of death. To them, it was the accursed thing. Achan saw, he desired, he lusted, after that, he took and hid great riches. Josh. 7:20-21 As a matter of fact, Achan stole from the Lord, not from Jericho. Even in our time men are still trying to steal from the Lord that which is His. Mal. 3:8-9.
Achan saw and purloined a beautiful Babylonish garment, definitely of great value, else he would not have taken it. In his stolen loot there were two hundred shekels of silver plus a wedge or tongue of gold. Overnight he had become a rich man, but had committed a gross sin before the Lord. It is interesting that there were three items stolen. If we would spiritualize them the robe would become a robe of righteousness. Silver speaks to redemption and gold of the glory of the Lord. But Achan had to confess that he coveted, took and hid that which he had taken. When actions are based on a desire to deceive, or a wrong motive is involved, there will be a time of exposure. Sin cannot permanently be hidden.
Achan’s sin had its effect on the whole of Israel. They were defeated at Ai because sin was in the camp. Not only were they physically manhandled but psychologically in mind and heart they were utterly cast down. Josh. 7:1-5 Joshua humbled himself before the Lord but in his prayer boldly spoke his feelings before the Lord. If Israel is defeated, Lord, what will that do to your great name. A prayer of wisdom for he knew that the Lord would respond and He did so by exposing the fact that there was sin in Israel. Josh. 7:6-9 The actions of one had its effect on the whole of the nation of Israel. The enemy within. One of their own but a man who disobeyed the Lord causing the whole of the nation to be brought under condemnation. The lineage of Achan ceased right then and there. The punishment was equal to the sin for by his actions thirty six of the brave warriors of Israel lost their lives. Josh. 7:5 Consequently Achan and all that was connected with him were stoned to death and burned.
Josh. 7:25-26 To obey is better than sacrifice and to hearken than the fat of rams. 1 Sam. 15:22b.