One But Many

There is much we can learn from Achan's sin. We see, covet, take and hide. It is the foolishness of man that thinks he can sin and hide from God. However Joshua 7 emphasizes not only Achin's personal sin but also the impact of that sin on the nation as a whole. The reason for defeat at Ai was because of Achan's sin (7:11). The principle is that Achan's sin leads to God's wrath on the whole nation. How can one man's sin do this? In our world, we know so much about the 'me' but we neglect the 'we'. God said Israel sinned even though the passage shows Achan sinned. We are not denying individual responsibility. We learn here about corporate identity. God condemns the many for the sin of one. This principle echo's down through the course of time. We need to understand one and many (1 Cor 12:12). We do not live for ourselves. We live in vital relationship to others. We live and obey and disobey in community. So in Achan's sin, we learn the following:

1. Corporate Identity
   To live in isolation is to deny this principle. It is morally good for brethren to dwell together in unity. Paul wanted to join with the disciples when he was converted (Acts 9:26)
2. Corporate Unity
   Our identity is to govern our practice and actions. Pride and impatience brings division (Eph 4:1-3). We should be humble and meek.
3. Corporate Responsibility
   We are to live in obedience for the good of the body. An infection in one part of the body can affect the whole body. We are to not neglect the body but encourage it.
4. Corporate Purity
   We are not to condone sin. Christ values purity. God is holy and will not admit sin. Joshua brought judgment to Achan but the greater Joshua brings salvation.