CHRIST: OUR ETERNAL REFUGE AND SAFETY

Ezekiel 11:16 “Therefore say, Thus saith the Lord God; Although I have cast them far off among the heathen, and although I have scattered them among the countries, yet will I be to them as a little sanctuary in the countries where they shall come.”

ABSTRACT

This article delves into the biblical cities of refuge as symbols of God’s merciful provision, justice, and protection for His people, drawing parallels to Christ as the ultimate spiritual refuge and the church as a fortress of safety and grace amid life’s trials and the end-time challenges.

ANCIENT HAVENS OF MERCY!

The concept of refuge centers understanding God’s provision for His people. God establishes cities of refuge in ancient Israel as a merciful provision for those who unintentionally take a life, ensuring their protection from avengers until a fair trial takes place. The Book of Numbers 35:6 describes this divine system, stating, “And among the cities which ye shall give unto the Levites, there shall be six cities for refuge, which ye shall appoint for the manslayer, that he may flee thither.” This system highlights God’s justice and mercy, balancing the protection of the innocent while ensuring that the guilty do not escape punishment. Ellen G. White in Patriarchs and Prophets explains that “the cities of refuge were so distributed as to be within a half day’s journey of every part of the land… Any person—Hebrew, stranger, or sojourner—might avail himself of this provision” (p. 515, 1890). The Bible further illustrates this merciful access with Joshua 20:3 “That the slayer that killeth any person unawares and unwittingly may flee thither: and they shall be your refuge from the avenger of blood.” Sr. White also notes, “The cities of refuge were so distributed that one was always within reasonable distance of every part of the land” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 515.2, 1890). Another verse emphasizes the inclusive nature, as Numbers 35:15 states “These six cities shall be a refuge, both for the children of Israel, and for the stranger, and for the sojourner among them: that every one that killeth any person unawares may flee thither.” In addition, Sr. White writes, “These cities of refuge, appointed for the accidental manslayer, were a type of the refuge provided in Christ” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 516.1, 1890). This arrangement provides immediate protection and symbolically points to the greater spiritual refuge in God Himself. The ancient cities of refuge foreshadow Christ as our eternal refuge, providing safety and salvation for all who seek Him in faith. But how does this system balance mercy with the demands of justice in cases of human life?

JUSTICE AND MERCY BALANCED!

Justice and mercy stand central to the Bible, mainly when dealing with the sacredness of human life. Genesis 9:6 emphasizes the principle that “Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.” This law, however, leads to excessive bloodshed and private vengeance, with little regard for context or motive. God introduces the cities of refuge to mitigate this, places where those who commit accidental killings can seek asylum while awaiting a fair trial. These cities provide a balance between upholding justice and ensuring that mercy extends to those deserving. Further biblical passages confirm this with Psalm 89:14 “Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face.” Sr. White explains, “This merciful provision was rendered necessary by the ancient custom of private vengeance, by which the punishment of the murderer devolved on the nearest relative or the next heir of the deceased” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 515, 1890). Another verse highlights the provision, as Numbers 35:9-11 states “And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When ye be come over Jordan into the land of Canaan; Then ye shall appoint you cities to be cities of refuge for you; that the slayer may flee thither, which killeth any person at unawares.” In addition, Sr. White writes, “The guilty were given up to the avenger. At the death of the high priest, however, all who had sought shelter in the cities of refuge were at liberty to return to their possessions” (From Eternity Past, p. 368.1, 1983). The law of private vengeance embeds deeply in society in ancient Israel. If a man kills another, even unintentionally, the next of kin takes responsibility for avenging the death, often resulting in the death of the perpetrator without a trial. God designates six cities of refuge in response to protect those who accidentally kill someone. These cities distribute evenly throughout the land, ensuring anyone seeking refuge reaches one without delay (Numbers 35:6, 9-11). The towns—Kedesh, Shechem, Hebron, Bezer, Ramoth, and Golan—locate strategically to be accessible to all (Joshua 20:7-9). This provision of mercy solves practically the prevalent practice of vengeance.

The system of refuge cities reflects God’s justice and mercy. Roads leading to these cities maintain well, and clear signposts place to direct the fugitive, ensuring no time loses in seeking safety. Sr. White describes the urgency with which the person flees: “Weariness was forgotten, difficulties were unheeded. The fugitive dared not for one moment slacken his pace until he was within the wall of the city” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 517, 1890). Once inside, the accused stands before the congregation to present his case (Numbers 35:12). If found innocent of intentional murder, the person remains within the city until the high priest’s death, after which they free to return home. However, if the fugitive leaves the city before this time, they risk killing by the avenger of blood (Joshua 20:6). The Bible further illustrates this urgency with Psalm 46:1 “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Sr. White also notes, “He who fled to the city of refuge could make no delay. There was no time to say farewell to loved ones. Weariness was forgotten, difficulties were unheeded. The fugitive dared not slacken his pace until he was within the city” (From Eternity Past, p. 369.2, 1983). Another verse stresses the protection, as Psalm 62:8 states “Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.” In addition, Sr. White writes, “The prisoner who at any time went outside the city of refuge was abandoned to the avenger of blood. Even so, it is not enough that the sinner believe in Christ for pardon of sin; he must, by faith and obedience, abide in Him” (From Eternity Past, p. 369.4, 1983). The protection offered by the city of refuge conditions. While these cities serve as a place of safety for those who commit accidental killings, they do not shield those guilty of murder. The guilty hand over to the avenger of blood, as the law demands that intentional murder punishes (Numbers 35:16-21). Deuteronomy 19:4-5 illustrates an accidental death: if a man accidentally kills another while cutting wood and the axe head slips, he may flee to a city of refuge. However, if a person intentionally harms or kills another, they cannot claim refuge. The congregation decides the fate of the fugitive based on the evidence presented, ensuring that the innocent protects and the guilty faces justice.

The accused declares their cause to the city elders, who then determine their guilt or innocence (Joshua 20:4-5). This system of judgment mirrors the accountability found within today’s church leadership. Just as the congregation in ancient Israel holds the authority to judge cases of life and death, modern-day congregations entrust with maintaining spiritual discipline and order within the church under the guidance of elders, deacons, and apostles. These roles ordain through a biblical process, ensuring that leadership acts by God’s will and His principles of justice and mercy. The cities of refuge established by God in ancient Israel provide a powerful lesson on justice, mercy, and the balance between the two. These cities design to protect those who accidentally take a life, ensuring that they will not unjustly punish. At the same time, they serve as a reminder that intentional wrongdoing will not go unpunished. This system of refuge reflects God’s character, demonstrating His desire for fairness and compassion. God continues to offer refuge to those who seek Him, providing spiritual protection and guidance through His word and the leadership within His church. What happens, however, when the congregation in the city of refuge determines that the accused commits murder intentionally?

SANCTITY OF LIFE DEFENDED!

The city of refuge, as described in the Old Testament, serves as a place where individuals accused of murder seek protection while awaiting trial. However, the biblical guidelines make clear that if someone finds guilty of intentional murder, they put to death (Numbers 35:16-18, 20-21). The laws concerning the city of refuge emphasize human life’s sacredness and justice’s importance. Numbers 35:31 explicitly states, “Moreover ye shall take no satisfaction for the life of a murderer, which is guilty of death: but he shall surely be put to death” (Numbers 35:31, KJV). This reflects the high regard for human life in the biblical laws and the need to ensure justice serves in cases of murder. The punishment for taking a life results in death, which serves both as a deterrent and as a way to purify the land from the defilement of innocent bloodshed. Further biblical passages confirm this with Exodus 20:13 “Thou shalt not kill.” Sr. White expands on this in Patriarchs and Prophets, stating that “human life, which God alone could give, must be sacredly guarded” (p. 516, 1890). Another verse underscores the value, as Psalm 139:14 states “I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.” In addition, Sr. White writes, “The manslayer must not only flee to the city of refuge; he must abide in it, or he would fall a prey to the avenger of blood” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 517.1, 1890). The biblical mandate to put murderers to death acts not solely punitive, but also restorative. Numbers 35:33-34 explains that the land cannot cleanse of the blood that sheds except by the murderer’s blood. Genesis 9:6 echoes this, which says, “Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed” (KJV). Preserving life proves essential to the safety and purity of the nation, and any intentional violation of this principle requires severe consequences. The command to execute the guilty takes not lightly but proves essential to uphold justice and maintain social order.

The seriousness of taking human life extends even to cases of accidental death. God’s instructions to the Hebrews instill a deep sense of responsibility regarding any act that results in the loss of life. Sr. White highlights the gravity of unintentional killing in The Signs of the Times, stating that it should fill us with horror (1881). The Hebrews teach that even accidental death must investigate thoroughly, and the consequences must reflect the event’s seriousness. When a body finds in the land without a known perpetrator, a public and solemn ceremony conducts to demonstrate the community’s abhorrence of the crime (Deuteronomy 21:1-9). The Bible further illustrates this responsibility with Proverbs 24:11-12 “If thou forbear to deliver them that are drawn unto death, and those that are ready to be slain; If thou sayest, Behold, we knew it not; doth not he that pondereth the heart consider it? and he that keepeth thy soul, doth not he know it? and shall not he render to every man according to his works?” Sr. White also notes, “Christ is our refuge, and in Him we may hide ourselves from the storms of life and the wrath to come” (The Review and Herald, p. 1.1, 1888). Another verse stresses the communal duty, as Leviticus 19:16 states “Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people: neither shalt thou stand against the blood of thy neighbour; I am the Lord.” In addition, Sr. White writes, “The Saviour is our refuge, and under His wings we may trust” (Messages to Young People, p. 115.2, 1930). This ceremony reinforces the idea that sin, particularly murder, contaminates the land and its people and must address through justice and truth-seeking.

The implications of neglecting justice for murder extend beyond individual cases. The failure to condemn and punish murderers views as a national sin that can bring about divine retribution. The blood of the victim cries out to God for vengeance and anyone who excuses or shields a murderer from punishment shares in the guilt (1957, p. 999). The prophet Isaiah prophesies the downfall of nations that ignore justice: “Justice is turned back, and righteousness stands afar off, for truth has stumbled in the public squares” (Isaiah 59:14, ESV). Sr. White warns that the perversion of justice through bribery and corruption leads to national ruin, just as it did in the days of Noah and Sodom (1881). The accumulation of unpunished crimes—particularly murder—causes society to decay morally and the earth prepares for God’s ultimate judgment. Further biblical passages confirm this with Amos 5:24 “But let judgment run down as waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream.” Sr. White also notes, “In the time of trouble, God’s people will find refuge in Him who is their Rock and their Fortress” (The Great Controversy, p. 635.1, 1911). Another verse warns of consequences, as Proverbs 21:15 states “It is joy to the just to do judgment: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity.” In addition, Sr. White writes, “The church is to be a refuge for those who love God, a place where the weary and heavy-laden may come and find rest” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 8, p. 11.2, 1904). The failure to uphold justice contributes to the increasing wickedness in the world and reflects a neglect of God’s commandments.

The biblical guidelines for handling murder cases require strict adherence to the rule of multiple witnesses. Numbers 35:30 instructs that no one condemns for murder based on the testimony of just one witness. Jesus reiterates this principle in Matthew 18:16, “that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established” (KJV). Sr. White explains that this law proves necessary because human hearts often perverse, and personal bias or malice can lead to false accusations (The Signs of the Times, 1881). The requirement for multiple witnesses ensures a more thorough examination of the evidence, reducing the likelihood of unjust convictions. This provision protects the innocent and the judicial process, allowing for integrity and fairness in administering justice. Even though the accused seeks refuge in the city, they subject to trial and examination before any conclusion makes regarding their guilt. The biblical cities of refuge provide a temporary sanctuary for those accused of murder, but the laws surrounding these cities reflect God’s justice. Those who flee to the city of refuge stay safe until they stand trial. If found innocent, they require to remain in the city until the high priest’s death, after which they return to their land (Numbers 35:25-28). Though restrictive, this law acts as a merciful provision for protecting the innocent. However, if the accused leaves the city before the death of the high priest, they subject to death by the avenger of blood (Numbers 35:26-28). This system of refuge and trial underscores the importance of safeguarding human life while ensuring justice carries out impartially and fairly.

The biblical city of refuge symbolizes powerfully God’s mercy and justice. It reflects His concern for human life and the importance of upholding righteousness in the community. Today, the concept of a “city of refuge” views spiritually, as Christ serves as our refuge from the guilt and consequences of sin. Just as the high priest’s death allows the accused to return to their homes, Christ’s death on the cross provides freedom and redemption to all who seek refuge in Him. Further biblical passages confirm this with Psalm 27:5 “For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.” Sr. White also notes, “The cities of refuge were a provision of mercy for the unintentional offender, and they pointed to Christ, our merciful High Priest” (The Story of Redemption, p. 173.2, 1947). Another verse points to Christ, as 2 Timothy 4:18 states “And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” In addition, Sr. White writes, “Those who flee to Christ as their refuge will find in Him a hiding place from the storms of temptation and sin” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 156.1, 1900). This transition from the ancient city of refuge to the present spiritual refuge in Christ illustrates the fulfillment of God’s plan of justice and mercy. But in times of modern uncertainty, where does this refuge manifest for us today?

CHRIST OUR ETERNAL SHELTER!

God stands as our refuge and strength in times of trouble and uncertainty. This concept roots deeply in the Bible and reflects in various scriptural passages. As Deuteronomy 33:27 says, “The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.” God provides a place of safety for those who seek Him. The city of refuge in ancient Israel symbolizes the spiritual refuge we now find in Christ. In a world full of dangers, we find shelter in God, who offers us the ultimate protection and safety. The idea of God as a refuge illustrates throughout the Bible. For instance, Psalm 91:2 declares, “I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in Him will I trust.” This verse reminds us that we call not just upon God when we need Him but continually dwell in His presence, making Him our permanent refuge. Sr. White states, “The cities of refuge appointed for God’s ancient people were a symbol of the refuge provided in Christ” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 517, 1890). Like the cities of refuge, God offers us protection, but it falls to us to remain within His borders to maintain that protection. Further biblical passages confirm this with Nahum 1:7 “The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.” Sr. White also notes, “Christ is the only refuge for the soul, and in Him alone can we find peace and safety” (The Desire of Ages, p. 363.2, 1898). Another verse affirms the permanence, as Psalm 71:3 states “Be thou my strong habitation, whereunto I may continually resort: thou hast given commandment to save me; for thou art my rock and my fortress.” In addition, Sr. White writes, “The Saviour has by the shedding of His own blood provided for the transgressors of God’s law a sure hiding place” (From Eternity Past, p. 369.1, 1983). God’s role as a refuge acts not as a temporary solution but as a continual relationship that we foster through faith and obedience.

The importance of remaining within the refuge of God emphasizes further through the story of the cities of refuge in ancient Israel. Those who seek shelter in these cities stay safe only if they stay within their boundaries. Similarly, to maintain God’s protection, we seek His refuge in times of crisis and remain faithful and obedient to His will. As Sr. White points out, “It is not enough that the sinner believes in Christ for the pardon of sin; he must, by faith and obedience, abide in Him” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 517, 1890). The necessity of adhering to God’s commands underscores, as willfully stepping outside His protection leads to vulnerability. Just as leaving the city of refuge exposes the fugitive to danger, abandoning God’s laws and truth leaves us open to spiritual peril. Accepting the pure, unadulterated truth found in Him proves vital to making God our refuge. As Christ declares, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). To make God our refuge embraces His truth and rejects falsehood. The Apostle John writes, “I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth” (1 John 2:21). Sr. White elaborates on this idea by saying, “Christ is the complete system of truth” (Selected Messages, p. 198, 1958). This means that accepting Christ fully requires accepting His teachings without distortion. Further biblical passages confirm this with John 8:32 “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” Sr. White also notes, “It was His design that His disciples should take the plain, unadulterated truth for the guide of their life” (SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 5, p. 1089, 1953). Another verse emphasizes truth’s role, as Psalm 31:5 states “Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O Lord God of truth.” In addition, Sr. White writes, “Christ is the complete system of truth” (Selected Messages, p. 198, 1958). To take refuge in God embraces His truth wholly without altering it to suit our desires or circumstances. Actual shelter finds only in absolute truth, as it leads this truth to spiritual safety and salvation.

The pure truth of God finds within His true church, which acts as a stronghold of righteousness in a world full of deception. 1 Timothy 3:15 identifies the church as “the pillar and ground of the truth.” In God’s true church, the community finds a community of faith and a haven of doctrinal purity. Sr. White echoes this sentiment, stating, “It was His design that His disciples should take the plain, unadulterated truth for the guide of their life” (SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 5, p. 1089, 1953). This underscores the church’s role in preserving and teaching God’s truth. As we wait for the return of our High Priest, Christ, we remain within the borders of His church, just as those in ancient Israel stay in the city of refuge to protect. God offers Himself as our ultimate city of refuge, where we find safety and protection in times of trouble. To dwell in His refuge requires faith, obedience, and the acceptance of His truth. As we navigate life’s trials and tribulations, we call to remain within the shelter of His laws and teachings, not seeking refuge in lies or false security. Just as those in ancient Israel stay within the cities of refuge, so we remain in Christ, our spiritual shelter, to maintain our safety and salvation. Embracing God’s pure, unadulterated truth through His word and His church ensures that we continue to dwell safely in His protection until the return of our High Priest, who never dies. But how does the church embody this refuge in the face of end-time rejection and spiritual darkness?

CHURCH FORTRESS UNYIELDING!

The pure and unadulterated truth of Christ finds in God’s true church, a sanctuary for the community until the end of time. This truth rejects by many, as prophesied in Isaiah 4:1, where the churches seek only the name of Christ, not His character. This prophecy applies to the last days, as seen in Isaiah 4:2-4, describing the spiritual condition of God’s people during the Investigative Judgment. Christ warns in Matthew 7:21-23 that those who profess His name without embodying His character reject. Willful sin brings peril (Hebrews 10:26-27), but God’s true church upholds pure doctrines, even during spiritual darkness. Sr. White emphasizes that despite its defects, the church remains the object of God’s supreme regard, revealing His transformative grace to the world (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 12, 1911). Throughout eternity, God’s church on earth unites with the heavenly church (Ephesians 3:15; Micah 4:8), continuing to unfold sacred truths. As Sr. White further notes, the church must cooperate with the church in heaven to become an educating power in the world, representing Christ and sharing His light (Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, p. 7, 1900). The church in Christ serves as a place of safety and refuge for each of us, acting as God’s fortress in a world filled with spiritual rebellion. As Sr. White asserts, “The church is God’s fortress, His city of refuge, which He holds in a revolted world. Any betrayal of the church is treachery to Him who has bought mankind with the blood of His only-begotten Son” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 11, 1911). This emphasizes that the church centers to God’s plan for humanity, acting as a guardian of spiritual truths. God upholds consistently a faithful group of people throughout the church’s history who bear witness to His truths, uniting the church on earth with the church in heaven. This divine connection between the earthly and heavenly church solidifies further the church’s importance as a spiritual refuge for us, as “the gates of hell have not been able to prevail against His people” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 11, 1911). The church acts not merely as an institution but as a spiritual fortress for protecting and preserving God’s people.

The church serves also as the repository of God’s grace, serving as a beacon of divine love and mercy. Sr. White explains, “The church is the repository of the riches of the grace of Christ; and through the church will eventually be made manifest…the full display of the love of God” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 9, 1911). Despite its imperfections and weaknesses, the church chooses as the vessel through which God reveals His grace to humanity. In the church, Christ performs “experiments of His mercy on human hearts,” transforming lives in ways that astonish even the angels (1888 Materials, p. 1554, 1888). Further biblical passages confirm this with Ephesians 3:10 “To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God.” Sr. White also notes, “The church, as God’s appointed agency, is to be a refuge for souls perishing in sin” (Gospel Workers, p. 13.1, 1915). Another verse highlights grace’s display, as 2 Corinthians 4:15 states “For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.” In addition, Sr. White writes, “The church is to be a city of refuge for the tempted and the fallen, where they may find help and strength” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, p. 147, 1909). This divine experimentation reveals the church’s unique role as a theater of grace, where God’s love works actively in human lives. God showcases His mercy and compassion by working through the church, demonstrating His love to a fallen world.

The church must strive for a higher standard of holiness and devotion for this reason, reflecting Christ to the world. Sr. White calls for church members to embody the character of Christ, urging them to live lives that reflect the selflessness and devotion of Enoch, who “walked with God” (Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, December 4, 1900). Such devotion proves essential if the church’s light shines clearly and brightly in the world. Church members labor actively to remove evil from their hearts and lives, refusing to tolerate sin within the church. As Sr. White notes, “Christ would have a church that labors to separate the evil from the good” (SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, p. 958, 1957). This active pursuit of holiness proves crucial for the church to fulfill its mission of pointing sinners to the Lamb of God and lifting humanity from spiritual degradation. The church composes of individuals dedicated to righteousness and purity. The consequences of tolerating sin within the church prove severe, as it threatens the spiritual well-being of the entire body. Sr. White warns that if sin persists within the church, “the blessing of the Lord is withheld from His people, and the innocent suffer with the guilty” (The Signs of the Times, January 20, 1881). Tolerating sins such as deception, fraud, and falsehood undermines the church’s mission and leads to demoralization. Church leaders take prompt and thorough action to correct wrongs within the church, acting with humility and a sincere desire to glorify God. Failing to address sin within the church hinders its spiritual growth and offends God, who views sin as a direct offense against His holiness. The church remains vigilant in addressing sin within its ranks, ensuring that it remains a holy and pure body dedicated to God’s service.

We gain access to eternal life by abiding in Christ, who is our refuge. As the apostle John writes, “And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life” (1 John 5:11-12). Through Christ, the head of the church, we find life and security. The church remains essential in our journey toward salvation, serving as a place of refuge and the pathway to eternal life. The church that is in Christ acts as a sacred fortress for us, providing safety, grace, and a pathway to eternal life. As God’s chosen institution, the church takes responsibility for upholding spiritual truths and reflecting His grace to the world. Despite its imperfections, the church remains the object of Christ’s special regard, where His mercy reveals to humanity. However, for the church to fulfill its mission, its members pursue holiness, laboring actively to separate evil from good and refusing to tolerate sin. In a world where Satan seeks to devour the unwary, the church stands as a beacon of hope and salvation for all who seek refuge in Christ. The church’s role as a place of refuge and transformation proves more urgent than ever considering these spiritual realities. The adversary, the devil, seeks relentlessly to devour those who anchor not securely in Christ. As 1 Peter 5:8 warns, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” The need for us to find refuge in Christ and His church stands paramount. But why does eternal life hinge so urgently on our connection to Christ and His church?

LIFE IN CHRIST ETERNAL!

Jesus Christ grants the promise of eternal life, and only through Him we find refuge and salvation. The Bible emphasizes the importance of possessing Jesus Christ in our lives, stating, “And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life” (1 John 5:11-12, KJV). This verse underscores the vital truth that life, both now and in eternity, links inextricably to our connection with Christ. Sr. White’s writings warn that those in the church who fail to experience a true conversion crucify Christ afresh through their actions and bring dishonor to His name (1900, p. 10). Though they may profess faith, these individuals deny Christ’s power by living unrighteous lives. Following Christ means participating actively in His mission, standing firm on eternal truths, and contending earnestly for the faith delivered to the saints (1900, p. 10). Further biblical passages confirm this with John 3:36 “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” Sr. White also notes, “The church is to be a refuge for those who love God, a place where the weary and heavy-laden may come and find rest” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 8, p. 11.2, 1904). Another verse affirms the link, as Romans 6:23 states “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” In addition, Sr. White writes, “Christ is the only refuge for the soul, and in Him alone can we find peace and safety” (The Desire of Ages, p. 363.2, 1898). We live lives that reflect Christ’s transformative power, holding fast to the truth and standing against the enemy.

Jesus Christ offers protection to all who make Him their refuge, much like the hedge God places around Job. As it writes, “Hast not thou made a hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? Thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land” (Job 1:10, KJV). This hedge represents the protection that God extends to those who fear Him, as echoed in Psalms 34:7, where it says, “The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them.” God’s protective care ensures no one harms those who trust Him. Jesus reassures us further by declaring, “My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand” (John 10:29, KJV). In Christ, we find a refuge impenetrable to the forces of darkness. Walking in His light brings us into fellowship with other members of the community, as “if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin” (1 John 1:7, KJV). Being outside this fellowship, and thus outside of Christ’s refuge, places us in danger, for we walk no longer in the protective light of His presence.

The church plays an essential role as the body of Christ in uniting the community with one another and heaven. Jesus promises those who follow Him that they inherit the kingdom prepared for them from the foundation of the world (Matthew 25:34, KJV). This church on earth acts not only as a sanctuary for us but unites also with the church in heaven. The apostle Paul recognizes the importance of church unity and commends often members for their faithfulness, such as Phoebe, a church servant at Cenchrea (Romans 16:1, KJV). Paul emphasizes the importance of commendation within the church through personal acknowledgment and letters, as seen in the circular letters sent to the early church (Acts 15:22-23, KJV). These letters reflect the voice of the whole church, serving to maintain order and unity. To safeguard the church, Paul advises that only those approved by the church handle funds (1 Corinthians 16:1-3, KJV), ensuring the church’s work conducts with integrity. Ministers and apostles, acknowledged by the church and sent by its authority, represent the unity and purpose of the church (2 Corinthians 8:16-19, KJV). However, those who attempt to enter the ministry without proper acknowledgment create confusion and division (Sr. White, 1858, p. 97). The church ensures that only qualified and holy individuals entrust with teaching and leading God’s people. The Bible provides a clear warning: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8, KJV). The church serves as a fortress for us to find refuge from enemy attacks. Without the protection and fellowship of the church, individuals prove more vulnerable to the deceptions and assaults of Satan. Christ’s church provides spiritual nourishment, guidance, and a sense of belonging, essential for standing firm against the devil’s schemes. The church’s unity proves vital for its strength, as it brings the community together in fellowship, prayer, and mission. We support and encourage one another by joining together in our walk of faith, ensuring that no one falls prey to the enemy’s attacks.

Life in Christ extends a refuge that protection, fellowship, and eternal life to all who trust in Him. We strive to live lives that reflect His truth and righteousness, standing firm in faith and participating actively in the church, which acts both as a spiritual home and a sanctuary against the forces of evil. Christ’s protection, symbolized by the hedge around Job, ensures we safeguard if we remain in Him. The church, united with the church in heaven, provides the fellowship, guidance, and protection necessary for our journey toward eternal life. We recognize the urgency of remaining within the safety of the church and staying vigilant against the enemy, for only in Christ we find true refuge and life everlasting.

REFLECTIONS ON DIVINE SHELTER!

The cities of refuge fulfill a practical purpose in ancient Israel and serve as a powerful symbol of God’s mercy and justice. These cities protect those who unintentionally cause harm, ensuring they have a place to flee and await a fair trial, as described in Numbers 35:6-14. Sr. White in Patriarchs and Prophets emphasizes that this system reflects “the refuge provided in Christ” for sinners who seek His mercy and protection (p. 517, 1890). Just as the cities of refuge shield the innocent from unjust retribution, Christ offers spiritual refuge to those who turn to Him for salvation. Through this, we see how God’s laws promote not only justice and mercy but also foreshadow the ultimate spiritual protection found in Jesus. Further biblical passages confirm this with Psalm 18:2 “The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.” Sr. White also notes, “The cities of refuge were a symbol of the refuge provided in Christ. The Saviour has by the shedding of His own blood provided for the transgressors of God’s law a sure hiding place” (From Eternity Past, p. 369.1, 1983). Another verse captures the redemption, as Isaiah 32:2 states “And a man shall be as an hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest; as rivers of water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land.” In addition, Sr. White writes, “The church, as God’s appointed agency, is to be a refuge for souls perishing in sin” (Gospel Workers, p. 13.1, 1915). The refuge system stands as a timeless representation of God’s desire to protect, restore, and provide a path to redemption for all who seek His shelter.

Hebrews 6:18 “That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us.”

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REVIEW QUESTIONS

What was the primary purpose of the cities of refuge in ancient Israel, and how did they ensure justice was carried out?

How did the requirement for an accused person to remain in the city of refuge until the death of the high priest emphasize the sanctity of human life?

In what way do the cities of refuge serve as a symbol of Christ’s role as a spiritual refuge, and how is this reflected in Ellen G. White’s commentary in Patriarchs and Prophets (p. 517)