Cities Of Refuge

In the Old Testament times, there were six "cities of refuge" to protect people who accidentally kill others. These cities provided a haven whereby the killer could flee from the "avenger of the blood", the relative who considered it his duty to repay vengeance. The legality to obtain refuge was determined by a judge, under the government and laws given by the Lord. In a significant way, it was a type and portrayal of the redemptive plan of God even though the law speaks no mercy. Likewise, when Jesus Christ fulfill the law and its demands by His sacrificial death on the cross, He desires every Christian to be a "city of refuge" whereby the heavy laden can receive ministry to find rest in Him (according to MATTHEW 11:28).