Main Highlights
Instructions for establishing cities of refuge and laws concerning witnesses and justice.
Key Verses
"You shall set apart three cities for yourselves in the midst of the land that the Lord your God is giving you to possess."- Deuteronomy 19:2
Related Scripture
"But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."- Romans 5:8
Scholar Insight
""The cities of refuge provided sanctuary for those who had committed accidental manslaughter. This illustrates the importance of justice and mercy in Gods law." - Meredith G. Kline"
Theological Analysis
What we learn about God
God is just, but also merciful. He makes provision for those who have unintentionally caused harm. God hates violence and commands his people to deal with it in the correct way, not letting it fester.
Christological Connection
The cities of refuge are a symbolic foreshadowing of Jesus, our refuge from Gods wrath and the consequences of sin.
Systematic Theology
Atonement. Jesus provides a place of refuge, a way to escape the consequences of sin.
Law & Grace
The Law establishes the consequences of wrongdoing. Grace is shown in the provision of a place of refuge, a temporary reprieve. "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23)
Personal Application
We should strive for justice and reconciliation in our relationships, and seek to provide refuge for those in need. "He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?" (Micah 6:8)