Ep 568 – Joshua 20:1-9

In Joshua 20:1-9, we find a reference to what were known as the cities of refuge. These were six cities, designated by God, that were to serve as places of shelter for anyone who might be accused of murder. This aspect of the judicial system of Israel, while fascinating, seems a bit out of place in the context of the book of Joshua. Why did God choose to add a reference to these cities at this particular juncture? Part of the reason is that it reveals God's understanding of human nature – especially man's sin nature. Even though the members of the 12 tribes, as descendants of Abraham, shared a common blood line, God knew there would conflict between individuals and even entire tribes. Sin was going to happen, so God made provision for it. Even for cases of murder. But there is an even more significant purpose for God's creation of the cities of refuge and their inclusion in the book of Joshua. They point to Christ. They provide us with a picture of the refuge from guilt and condemnation that would one day come through Jesus Christ. He would become the place where sinners found safety and eventually redemption for their sins. Jesus, our refuge.