Introduction

Explain how the Lord is preparing his people for life in the land now that the land has been divided. Consider mentioning Joshua 18–19.

You could also draw attention to the fact that this will be the fourth time in Scripture that mention is made of cities of refuge. What does this repetition show about God’s concern for justice and the importance of these cities? 

The cities of refuge

• Explain how these cities would work, when someone would go there and why.

• Explain the term avenger of blood.

• Explain how this system was a deterrent for murder and how it provided a measure of justice. Consider also the justice given to strangers and the fact that no ransom is accepted.

The death of the high priest

• Explain why the accidental killer was not allowed to leave the city even after the trial found him not guilty of murder.

• Explain how the shedding of blood pollutes and why this requires further blood to be shed.

• Explain how this system provided a marriage (joining together) of justice and mercy.

• Apply: what do these cities show us about the dignity of human life? What do they show us about the appropriate penalty for murder (capital punishment)? Should we seek to establish these kinds of cities today?

Refuge in Christ alone

• Explain how the cities were a gift from God that provided some justice but not perfect justice.

• Explain what perfect justice would be in the case of murder/accidental killing.

• Explain how perfect justice was partially satisfied in the death of Christ and will be fully satisfied when Christ returns in glory.

• Apply: encourage those who have murdered or killed to know there is forgiveness in Christ. Encourage those who have lost loved ones to know there is resurrection.

• Apply/conclude: if only these cities provided refuge from the avenger of blood, then know that only Christ provides refuge from God’s wrath. There is no salvation apart from him.