Day 89, Chronological Bible Study Timeline. Map. Go to today’s Bible reading (use your browser arrow to return): Joshua 20:1–21:42; 1Chronicles 6:54-81; Joshua 21:43-45
Refuge and Direction
Where do we find refuge when we are in danger from someone? Where can we clarify the laws of our society? These are the answers that God supplies for the Israelites in today's Bible reading. The principles we learn from them are helpful to us.
Where can the accused flee when they are innocent?
In today's Bible reading, God assigns cities of refuge and members of the Levite tribe to be dispersed throughout the land of Israel. Three sanctuary cities are located east of the Jordan River in the northern, central, and southern areas of the land. Three sanctuary cities are also located west of the Jordan in the north, mid, and southern regions of the land. These are safe places where someone might flee if he kills another by accident. They protect him from the avenger of blood until the city officials decide his case. If the accused is guilty of murder, the elders of the city must hand him over to the avenger to be executed. However, if he is innocent, he must remain in the city until the high priest's death (perhaps to let things cool off and protect the accused). Afterward, the person can return home.
The placement of sanctuary cities throughout Israel makes it accessible to everyone. It provides protection and justice for the one who is innocent of murder and prevents needless bloodshed.
Today, we have security personnel scattered throughout our towns and cities. Their purpose is to serve the public, to inform us, and to enforce society's laws. Yes, we have all heard of corrupt cops, but most police dedicate themselves to serving our community. God has ordained them to do so (Romans 13:1-6)It's important to ask for their guidance and support when necessary, obey the law, and respect their power instead of resisting it. That's God's will for us.
Where can we go to understand God's law, his Word?
God also dispersed the Levites throughout Israel. The patriarchal father, Jacob, predicted this for Levi and Simeon's complicit killing of all the men in Shechem. The two brothers did this because a Shechemite man raped their sister (Genesis 49:5-7).Later in Israel's history, the Levite tribe and Phinehas (a son of a high priest) would stand on the side of the LORD against immorality. Because of this, God would show the Levites grace; although scattered among the rest of the tribes, they would now be his servants and priests in the tabernacle (Exodus 32:26-29; Numbers 25:11-13) and later the temple.
Besides leading worship and taking care of the Tabernacle, the Levites also taught God's law and provided direction (Deuteronomy 17:9-11; 27:12-26). The Levites didn't own land, but God scattered them throughout Israel. Instead of land, God gave them towns with pastureland to raise livestock. Their presence throughout Israel was to be a good moral influence. Their spiritual instruction would bring reverence for God and more order and peace to the community. A typical Israelite would have access to the Levites whenever he had questions about the law. Unfortunately, the Levites wouldn't carry out their responsibilities to teach the people.
What about us? If we are followers of Christ, God has scattered us throughout our neighborhoods, our towns, and cities. Are we influencing people for good? Are we available and approachable? Do people know they can come to us if they have some questions about spiritual matters?
Where do we flee when we need refuge for our souls? Today, we don't need to go to a priest—we can rely on God to help. Jesus Christ, God's Son, offers us forgiveness, peace, and spiritual life. His Word, the Bible, gives us direction for living, and we can get further guidance from leaders in Bible-teaching churches.
God is Faithful
God was faithful in keeping his promises to the Levites. He was also faithful in granting land to the two-and-one-half tribes east of the Jordan River, who first fought with the other Israelites for their inheritance. God was also faithful to the rest of the tribes of Israel.
So the LORD gave Israel all the land he had sworn to give their forefathers, and they took possession of it and settled there. The LORD gave them rest on every side, just as he had sworn to their forefathers. Not one of their enemies withstood them; the LORD handed all their enemies over to them. Not one of all the LORD’s good promises to the house of Israel failed; every one was fulfilled. (Joshua 21:45, NIV)
God keeps his promises. We may slip and falter in our faithfulness, but God never does. Praise the LORD!
Focus Verse
Psalm 145:13b “The LORD is faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made.” (NIV)
Endnote: An avenger of blood is a close relative who avenges the blood of the deceased.
Discussion
What was the importance of Sanctuary cities in Israel? Where can people find protection and help today?
Why might God have dispersed Christians throughout our society and the world?
How has God been faithful to us?
Please send your comments to me, Rod, the author
Looking Ahead: In our Next Lesson are the Last Words of Joshua. The last words of a godly person are valuable to us if we pay attention. Join us!
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