This is why I am commanding you to set apart for yourselves three cities. This is why I am commanding youMoses restates the Lord’s command in light of Israel’s coming possession of the land. The cities of refuge formed part of God’s covenant justice, providing protection for the innocent while preserving the right of the victim’s family to seek justice in cases of deliberate murder. Israel’s obedience would show reverence for the God who had redeemed them and given them the land. Jos 20:2 Tell the Israelites to designate the cities of refuge,… to set apart for yourselves Israel was to designate these cities publicly and maintain clear access to them. Roads leading to the cities were to be kept open, so that a person who had caused an accidental death could flee without delay. The cities belonged to the Levites and served the whole nation, teaching that justice, mercy, and the preservation of innocent life were matters under God’s care. Deu 4:41 Then Moses set aside three cities across the Jordan… three cities. These were the three cities west of the Jordan: Kedesh in Naphtali, Shechem in Ephraim, and Hebron in Judah (Joshua 20:7). They complemented the three cities already appointed east of the Jordan—Bezer, Ramoth, and Golan (Deuteronomy 4:41–43). A person accused of manslaughter remained in the city of refuge until the death of the high priest, after which he could return home safely. The provision reveals God’s concern for both truth and mercy, and it points forward to the secure refuge sinners find in Christ, whose saving work delivers those who come to Him in faith. Jos 20:7 So they set apart Kedesh in Galilee in the hill country… Persons / Places / Events 1. MosesThe leader of the Israelites who is delivering God's laws and instructions to the people before they enter the Promised Land. 2. Israelites The chosen people of God, who are receiving these instructions as part of the covenant relationship with God. 3. Cities of Refuge These are the three cities that God commands to be set apart as places of asylum for those who have committed unintentional manslaughter. Teaching Points God's Justice and MercyThe establishment of cities of refuge demonstrates God's balance of justice and mercy. While justice demands accountability, mercy provides a means of protection for those who have sinned unintentionally. The Importance of Obedience The command to set apart cities of refuge underscores the importance of obedience to God's laws. It reminds believers that God's instructions are purposeful and for the well-being of the community. Christ as Our Refuge Just as the cities of refuge provided safety for the Israelites, Christ is our refuge today. Believers can find safety and forgiveness in Him, especially when we fall short. Community Responsibility The command to establish cities of refuge highlights the community's role in ensuring justice and protection for all its members. It encourages believers to actively participate in creating a just and merciful society. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the concept of cities of refuge reflect God's character of justice and mercy, and how can we apply this understanding in our daily lives?2. In what ways does the establishment of cities of refuge emphasize the importance of obedience to God's commands? 3. How can the idea of Christ as our refuge provide comfort and assurance in times of personal failure or sin? 4. What responsibilities do we have as a community of believers to ensure justice and protection for those who are vulnerable or have made mistakes? 5. How can we draw parallels between the cities of refuge and modern-day practices of justice and mercy within our communities? Connections to Other Scriptures Numbers 35This chapter provides detailed instructions about the cities of refuge, explaining their purpose and the conditions under which they operate. Joshua 20 This passage describes the actual implementation of the cities of refuge once the Israelites have entered the Promised Land. Hebrews 6 This New Testament passage uses the concept of refuge to illustrate the hope and security found in Christ.
People MosesPlaces Beth-baal-peorTopics Apart, Aside, Cities, Command, Commanding, Marked, Ordering, Purpose, Saying, Separate, Thyself, Towns, Wherefore, YourselvesDictionary of Bible Themes Deuteronomy 19:1-10Library The Cities of Refuge'The Lord also spake unto Joshua, saying, 2. Speak to the children of Israel, saying, Appoint out for you cities of refuge, whereof I spake unto you by the hand of Moses: 3. That the slayer that killeth any person unawares and unwittingly may flee thither: and they shall be your refuge from the avenger of blood. 4. And when he that doth flee unto one of those cities shall stand at the entering of the gate of the city, and shall declare his cause in the ears of the elders of that city, they shall … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Messianic Claims Met by Attempt to Stone Jesus. The Doctrine of Non-Resistance to Evil by Force Has Been Professed by a Minority of Men from the Very Foundation of Christianity. Of the Book "What What the Ruler's Discrimination Should be Between Correction and Connivance, Between Fervour and Gentleness. Travelling in Palestine --Roads, Inns, Hospitality, Custom-House Officers, Taxation, Publicans The Ninth Commandment Deuteronomy Links Deuteronomy 19:7 NIVDeuteronomy 19:7 NLT Deuteronomy 19:7 ESV Deuteronomy 19:7 NASB Deuteronomy 19:7 KJV Deuteronomy 19:7 Commentaries Bible Hub |
    |