Refuge ...

Numbers 35 and Deuteronomy 19

These two passages describe the establishment of Cities of Refuge in ancient Israel. Six cities were established as refuge for those who committed manslaughter – the accidental death of someone. If someone caused the death of another a member of the deceased person’s family had the right to take the life of the accused. The avenger had to retaliate against the killer before he made it to a city of refuge. Once inside the city the avenger could not pursue. Protection only came within the city of refuge.

This seems to be another puzzling passage of why God asked ancient Israel to establish different or peculiar laws and practices. He clearly wanted His people to live differently. He established a system of justice ruled by mercy.

Why did God establish cities of refuge? He was painting another picture of His spiritual redemptive work for humanity. The cities of refuge were a picture of Jesus.

The Bible applies this picture of the city of refuge to the believer finding refuge in God on more than one occasion:

Psalm 46:1: God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. More than 15 other times, the Psalms speak of God as being our refuge.

We can flee to Jesus for refuge when the accuser chases!

Jesus vs. City of Refuge:

Jesus and the cities of refuge are within easy reach for the needy; they were of no use unless someone could get to the place of refuge. The cities were within one day’s travel.

Jesus and the cities of refuge are open to all, not just the Israelite. No one needs to fear that they would be turned away from their place of refuge in their time of need.

Jesus and the cities of refuge became a place where the one in need would live; you didn’t come to a city of refuge in time of need just to look around.

Jesus and the cities of refuge are the only alternative for the one in need; without this specific protection, they will be destroyed.

Jesus and the cities of refuge provide protection only within their boundaries; to go outside meant death.

With both Jesus and the cities of refuge, full freedom comes with the death of the High Priest. Those accused stayed in the city until the death of the current High Priest. Upon his death, they were free. What an incredible picture of the work of our High Priest, Jesus. He set us free upon His death for our sin.