Why is Rahab's faith significant in the Bible?

Rahab, described as a harlot in the Scriptures, serves as a profound testament to the scope of God's grace. Despite her sinful background and the cultural stigma surrounding her, her faith in the God of Israel led to her deliverance from destruction. Hebrews 11:31 and Joshua 2 reveal not only her faith but also the actions that followed—hiding the spies and thereby risking her life—which illustrated her genuine belief in God's power and promises. Rahab's inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1 further underscores the truth that God's grace is available to all, regardless of their past, and highlights the transformative power of faith that leads to redemption. Her story is a reminder that God's mercy transcends human judgment.