Refuge Cities: Types of Christ

2006010

Topic # 534 (salvation)

Introduction:

A.    Cities in ancient times were often built on hills.

1.      Especially important for six cities which Israel designated as cities of refuge.

2.      They were located, geographically, so that no one in Israel was more than a day’s journey from one of them.

B.     They were accessible to all who might need to flee to one for refuge some day.

C.     They were havens.  (Josh 20:3)

 

I.        Josh. 20:7-8 tells us which cities were designated as cities of refuge.

A.    First 3 cities are specifically said to be on mountains.

B.     On the east of the Jordan, Ramoth was on Mount Gilead.

1.      Golan on the Golan Heights east of the Sea of Galilee.

2.      Bezer was on the high tablelands east of the Dead Sea.

C.     Thus…all could be see from a great distance, even at night, by their watch fires.

1.      Their strategic locations were a comfort to the accidental killer as he fled for his life from an avenger of blood.

 

II. Heb. 6:18 – these cities of refuge were a type of Jesus.

A.    Jesus is, to us, a strong city set on a hill, ready to receive all who come to Him in faith.

1.      Heb 6:18 - who have fled for refuge to lay hold of the hope set before us:

B.     John 8:12 – Jesus is the light of the world. I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life."

C.     Are you lost?  Needing a place of refuge?

1.      Look to the refuge that is found in Jesus.  Draw yourself near to Him.

2.      Heed His conditions for salvation so that you can have rest from the one who seeks to destroy your soul.

3.      Come lay hold of the hope through obedience to Christ.

D.    Mt. 5:14-16 – Christians serve as lights – just as those cities on hills – so we may glorify the Father.

1.      Fellow Christians, are you glorifying God through the life you are living? If not, get it fixed tonight.

2.      Don’t delay!

 

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