Introduction. This morning we are going to look at something that was a part of the Old Testament Law of Moses and draw some comparisons between what is taught there and our relationship with God in Christ.

I. Six Cities of Refuge.

1. The Law regarding Manslaughter.
   1. Cities of refuge for accidental death (Numbers 35:9-15).
   2. Distinction between murder & manslaughter (Numbers 35:16-24).
   3. Safe only inside the city of refuge (Numbers 35:25-29).
   4. Blood atonement (Numbers 35:30-34).
2. Easily accessible (Deuteronomy 19:1-13).
3. Cities appointed under Joshua (Joshua 20:1-6).
   1. On the west of the Jordan (Joshua 20:7).
   2. On the east of the Jordan (Joshua 20:8).

II. The Church of the Living God - The Heavenly Jerusalem.

1. Those who are in Christ have come to “Heavenly Jerusalem” (Hebrews 12:22-24).
2. In coming to Christ we flee to Him for refuge (Hebrews 6:13-18).
3. Those who have sinned can find protection in Christ (Acts 26:17,18).
4. This protection is for all sin, not only accidental wrong-doing (Matthew 1:21).
5. The way to Christ is easily accessible (Acts 17:26,27; Romans 10:8-11).
6. Like the avenger of blood Satan seeks to overtake those outside of the security of the City of God (I Peter 5:8).