THE CITIES OF REGUGE

When the nation of Israel was settled in the land of promise, the Lord appointed six cities of refuge for men who were guilty of unintentional manslaughter. The man who had unintentionally killed another man could flee to one of these cities for refuge and safety. As long as the guilty man was in the city until the death of the high priest the legal avenger of blood could not harm him. These cities, which the Lord appointed for refuge, are beautifully typical of Christ, the only refuge appointed by God for guilty sinners. Even the names of the cities signify the many blessings which belong to those who have fled to Christ by faith for refuge and safety.

1. Kedesh means “Holy.” In Christ we have perfect holiness in the sight of God.

2. Shechem means “A Shoulder”. Christ is all our strength. His shoulders are strong enough to protect us, and broad enough to carry us all the way home.

3. Hebron means “Fellowship”. In Christ we are brought into the company and fellowship of the eternal God. We are “Accepted in the Beloved.”

4. Bezer means “A Fortified Place”. Christ is Our Mighty Fortress, Our Walled City, and Our High Tower. In Him we are safe from all harm.

5. Ramoth means “Height or Exaltation”. In Christ we are exalted to the right hand of God, and made to be kings and priests with him.

6. Golan means “Manifestation”. God is manifested to us in Christ. And the day of our manifestation as the sons of God in Christ will soon appear.

Now, having fled for refuge in Christ, we are perfectly and eternally safe. The law cannot touch us, because our great High Priest lives forever!