What is the meaning of Joshua 20:2? Tell the Israelites God’s first word is directed to His covenant people. Joshua, already affirmed as Moses’ successor (Joshua 1:1-2), must pass on the Lord’s exact words without alteration. • This stresses corporate responsibility; the whole nation is to understand and support what God is about to establish (Deuteronomy 31:12). • Clear communication from leadership prevents confusion and preserves unity (Numbers 27:18-23). • Like the Great Commission later given to the church (Matthew 28:19-20), the mandate begins with authoritative instruction that expects an obedient hearing. to designate “To designate” means to mark out intentionally—set apart from common use (Exodus 19:6). • Obedience here requires deliberate action: measuring distances, selecting sites, and publicly announcing them (Deuteronomy 19:3). • Setting something apart for God’s purpose highlights His holiness and the believer’s call to active participation (1 Peter 2:9). the cities of refuge These special towns provided sanctuary for anyone who killed another unintentionally, protecting the manslayer from the avenger of blood until due process (Numbers 35:11-15). • They reveal God’s justice and mercy working together: innocent blood must not be shed, yet accidental killers are shielded (Exodus 21:13). • The cities were evenly spaced—three west of the Jordan, three east—so help was never out of reach (Joshua 20:7-9). • They picture Christ, our refuge “in whom we have fled for safety” (Hebrews 6:18), welcoming all who run to Him. as I instructed you The command is not new; it fulfills previous revelation (Numbers 35:10-12). • God’s earlier word remains binding; time does not erode His directives (Psalm 119:89). • Joshua’s success depends on careful adherence, not on creativity (Joshua 1:7-8). • Our walk of faith likewise rests on taking God’s written Word at face value (John 14:15). through Moses Moses, though dead, still speaks through Scripture (Malachi 4:4). • The continuity underscores that one Author stands behind both Law and conquest (John 1:17). • The link to Moses validates Joshua’s leadership and the new generation’s mission (Deuteronomy 34:9). • It reminds every era that God’s purposes unfold progressively yet consistently (Hebrews 3:5-6). summary Joshua 20:2 calls Israel to act on previously given instruction by formally setting apart six cities of refuge. The verse highlights God’s pattern: divine command communicated through His appointed leader, deliberate obedience by the whole community, provision that blends justice with mercy, and unbroken continuity from Moses to Joshua. Literally implemented in ancient Canaan, the principle still points us to Christ, the ultimate refuge who fulfills and surpasses the law’s protective intent. |
    |