432. HEB 6:18. CHRIST TYPIFIED BY THE CITIES OF REFUGE

Heb_6:18. Christ Typified By The Cities Of Refuge

"Who have fled for refuge."’97Heb_6:18.

It is clear that the apostle, when uttering these words, had especial reference to the cities of refuge, and the security the manslayer had by fleeing to them. A full description of these cities is given in the book of Num_35:9-28; and Joshua 20. Their appointment was designed for the security of those who accidentally or unwittingly slew a man, and who were exposed to death by the next of kin to the deceased, as the avenger of blood. Now observe,

I. Every Sinner is justly exposed to Death.

The penalty of transgression is death. The soul that sinneth shall die. All whose guilt and transgressions are uncancelled, unforgiven, are condemned already, and the wrath of God abideth on them. Natural death is the result of sin. In death and trespasses all ungodly men are now involved, so as to be dead while they lire. But the justice of God will punish, with eternal death, all who remain in final impenitence and unbelief. And this is the condition of all mankind. All countries, all classes, all degrees of sinners are in the way of death. Pursued by the righteous avenger of blood, who will cast the wicked into hell, with all the nations that forget God.

II. God hath appointed Jesus as the Refuge for condemned Sinners.

He came that men might not perish, but have everlasting life. He came not to destroy men’s lives, but to save them. Now in this, he was strikingly typified by the cities of refuge.

1. In their number we are reminded of the sufficiency of Christ.

There were six of these cities. Doubtless amply sufficient for the cases which might require them. Jesus is the sufficient Saviour of all men. In him is room for the whole world. Merit, mercy, and willingness, for every child of man.

2. In their diversified localities we see the accessibility of Christ.

These cities were placed in various parts of the land, so as to be near to every quarter, and accessible to the inhabitants throughout. Here we see at once pointed oat to us, the nearness of Christ to every portion of the family of Adam. Throughout our wide world, in every region and city and spot tenanted by a sinner, is Christ near at hand, and not afar off. All the world may have ready access to Christ, and live.

3. In the spacious well-directed roads to the cities of refuge, we are reminded of the free, full, and plain declarations of the gospel of Christ.

The cities were to be on distinct elevations, so as to be seen afar off. The roads to them were to be wide and unobstructed. Finger-posts were to be placed at every turning, on which were to be inscribed Refuge! Thus every aid was afforded to the manslayer in his flight for mercy. How truly does this show us the very spirit of the gospel. Here the way of mercy is fully revealed. The mode of salvation clearly detailed. The most gracious directions given. And every facility afforded to the soul who is inquiring what he must do to be saved.

4. In the signification of the names of the cities, we also perceive the glorious excellency of Christ.

One of these cities was called "Kedesh," which signifies "Holy." Jesus is the Holy One of God. His person is holy. His work is holy. He redeems and saves men to holiness. Another was called "Shechem," which signifies "Shoulder," representing Christ as bearing the sins and burdens of the sinner. "He hath borne our griefs and carried our sorrows." The whole church of God is sustained by him and rests upon him. Another was called "Hebron," signifying "Fellowship." Thus Christ is the medium and ground of fellowship between God and men, and between the whole body of believers. In Christ we become the sons of God, and members one of another. Another was called "Bezer," which signifies a "Stronghold." Christ is often thus described. He is our refuge, our fortress, and a stronghold in the day of trouble. In him we are more secure than if surrounded by a munition of rocks. Another of the cities was called "Ramoth," which signifies "Exaltation." Jesus is the exalted Son of God. The Prince of life The Lord of glory. After the work of his humiliation and sorrow. God raised him from the dead and exalted him to the right hand of the majesty on high. He is exalted by the uplifting of the cross, in the hearts and supreme love of all his people, and shall be exalted in the songs of the redeemed forever and ever. The name of the last city of refuge was "Golan," which signifies "Exultation," or "Joy." Christ is the joy and rejoicing of his people. His gospel is the message of joy. His kingdom is not only righteousness and peace, but joy in the Holy Ghost. He is the joy of his church on earth, and the ecstasy of the heavenly world.

5. In the deliverance of the manslayer we see typified the salvation which is in Christ Jesus.

Within the city he was safe. Death was averted. Provision was made for him. But it was necessary that he should abide, at least until the death of the highpriest. Now, by believing repentance, the sinner flees to Christ, and becomes interested in his all-extensive merit and saving benefits. But he must be in Christ. And he must abide in him, Joh_15:1-7. Thus he shall be delivered from present condemnation, and from eternal death. In Christ is ample provision for his comfort, safety, and well-being.

Application

From this subject,

1. We see the awful misery and peril of the careless sinner.

2. The absolute necessity of repentance towards God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. And how necessary that this should be prompt and immediate. Without delay, seeing that the avenger of blood is pursuing every sinner. "Agree with thine adversary quickly," &c.

3. How urgently should ministers make known the terrors of the Lord and persuade men.

4. How happy are those who are delivered from the power of Satan, and have been brought to enjoy the forgiving love of God. Within the city of refuge, all their interests are secure both for time and eternity.

Autor: JABEZ BURNS