How does Joshua 20:7 connect with Jesus as our ultimate refuge? Setting the Scene “ So they set apart Kedesh in Galilee in the hill country of Naphtali, Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim, and Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron) in the hill country of Judah.” (Joshua 20:7) Purpose of the Cities • God commanded six Cities of Refuge so anyone who killed unintentionally could flee there (Numbers 35:9-15). • The avenger of blood could not touch the fugitive inside; the city’s gates guaranteed safety until due process. • These cities were centrally located, elevated, and accessible—roads kept clear (Deuteronomy 19:3). Echoes of Jesus in Joshua 20:7 • Provision: God Himself “set apart” safe places; in the gospel He “set apart” His Son as the once-for-all refuge (John 3:16). • Accessibility: The cities lay within reach of every tribe; Christ invites “everyone who believes” (Romans 10:11-13). • Protection: Inside the walls, the fugitive was untouchable; in Christ there is “now no condemnation” (Romans 8:1). • Permanence: Refuge lasted until the high priest’s death (Numbers 35:25); Jesus, our eternal High Priest, “lives forever” (Hebrews 7:24-25), securing unending safety. • Location names hint at His work: – Kedesh (“holy”)—He is “Holy, Blameless, Pure” (Hebrews 7:26). – Shechem (“shoulder”)—He carries the government on His shoulder (Isaiah 9:6). – Hebron (“fellowship”)—He reconciles us to God, bringing fellowship (Colossians 1:20-22). Scriptures That Confirm Jesus as Refuge • Psalm 46:1 – “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” • Hebrews 6:18 – “We who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be strongly encouraged.” • John 10:9 – “I am the gate; whoever enters through Me will be saved.” • Proverbs 18:10 – “The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” • Colossians 3:3 – “Your life is hidden with Christ in God.” Living in the Refuge Today • Run quickly to Him—like the manslayer sprinting to the nearest city. Delay only heightens danger. • Stay within His boundaries—abide in His Word and obedience (John 15:4-10). • Rest in His finished work—the once-dead, now-risen High Priest secures eternal shelter (Hebrews 9:11-12). • Point others to safety—keep the gospel “roads” clear through clear, compassionate witness (2 Corinthians 5:20). |
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