How does Joshua 20:5 connect with Jesus as our ultimate refuge and advocate? The Ancient Provision: Cities of Refuge • God appointed six cities (Joshua 20:1–4) as safe havens for anyone who killed another “unintentionally.” • Verse 5 captures the security offered: “If the avenger of blood pursues him, they are not to hand the manslayer over to him, because he struck his neighbor unintentionally without malice aforethought.” (Joshua 20:5) • The manslayer’s safety rested on two truths: – The city’s gates stayed open to receive him. – The elders protected him from the avenger until due process occurred (v. 6). Echoes of Refuge in Christ • Scripture uses the same language of “refuge” for God Himself: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble.” (Psalm 46:1) • Hebrews points to a greater fulfillment: “We who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be strongly encouraged.” (Hebrews 6:18) • Key parallels: – The manslayer fled to a city; the sinner flees to Christ. – Innocent blood could not be demanded; Jesus’ innocent blood covers ours (Ephesians 1:7). – Security lasted until the high priest died (Joshua 20:6); our security endures because our High Priest lives forever (Hebrews 7:25). Jesus, Our High Priest and Advocate • Jesus satisfies every element of Joshua 20:5: – Protection: “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 8:1) – Advocacy: “We have an advocate before the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.” (1 John 2:1) – Perpetual priesthood: “He always lives to intercede for them.” (Hebrews 7:25) • In Him, the believer finds: – Shelter from judgment. – Ongoing representation before the throne of God. – Freedom from fear of the avenger—Satan, sin, and death. Receiving the Refuge Today 1. Admit the need—acknowledge sin rather than premeditated rebellion being excused (Romans 3:23). 2. Flee quickly—turn to Christ in faith, not to self-defense or excuses (Acts 16:31). 3. Abide within—remain in fellowship and obedience, just as the manslayer stayed inside city walls (John 15:4). Living in the Freedom of Refuge • Confidence replaces anxiety: the gates of grace never close (John 6:37). • Grateful living flows from rescued hearts—serve others as fellow refugees (Galatians 5:13). • Hope anchors the soul: our Refuge is also preparing a permanent home where no avenger can follow (John 14:2–3). |
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