In the book of Joshua 20, God commands the Israelites to set apart six cities of refuge—safe havens where those who had unintentionally killed someone could flee for protection. These cities were a divine provision, ensuring that justice was balanced with mercy. However, these ancient cities point beyond themselves to a greater reality: Jesus Christ, our ultimate refuge.
The writer of Hebrews 6:18 tells us:
“We who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to seize the hope set before us.”
This verse highlights that just as the Israelites fled to cities of refuge for safety, we flee to Jesus for eternal security and forgiveness. He is the true and final refuge for the guilty—offering not just temporary protection, but eternal salvation.
The Cities of Refuge in Joshua 20
After the conquest of Canaan, God instructed Joshua to establish six cities of refuge so that anyone who killed another person accidentally could find safety from the avenger of blood. These cities were:
- Kedesh (meaning “Holy Place”)
- Shechem (meaning “Shoulder” or “Strength”)
- Hebron (meaning “Fellowship”)
- Bezer (meaning “Fortress” or “Stronghold”)
- Ramoth (meaning “Exalted Place”)
- Golan (meaning “Rejoicing”)
These cities were strategically located throughout Israel, ensuring that anyone in need could quickly reach them.
Once inside the city, the guilty person would stand trial before the elders to ensure that the killing was truly accidental. If found innocent of premeditated murder, he was allowed to remain within the city’s walls, safe from the avenger of blood. However, his freedom was limited—he had to stay within the city until the death of the high priest. Only then was he free to leave, symbolizing the role of a high priest in securing redemption.
Jesus: The Greater City of Refuge
The cities of refuge were temporary shelters, but Jesus is the eternal refuge for those guilty before God. We see at least six ways that Jesus fulfills this role:
1. Jesus is Open to All
The cities of refuge were available to all people—Israelites, foreigners, and sojourners alike. Likewise, Jesus extends His refuge to everyone who comes to Him, regardless of nationality, background, or past sin.
- John 6:37 – “Whoever comes to me I will never cast out.”
- Romans 10:13 – “For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
There are no qualifications—if you run to Jesus, He will receive you.
2. Jesus is Always Accessible
The roads leading to the cities of refuge were kept clear and well-marked so that those fleeing could arrive quickly. Likewise, Jesus is always near and accessible to the sinner.
- Matthew 11:28 – “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
Unlike the cities of refuge, which could only be reached by physical travel, Jesus is just a prayer away.
3. Jesus Provides True Safety
The city of refuge provided safety only as long as the person remained inside. But Jesus offers absolute and eternal safety for those who trust in Him.
- John 10:28 – “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.”
The protection of the city of refuge was limited—the person had to wait for the high priest to die before being fully free. Jesus, our Great High Priest, has already died and risen again, securing our eternal freedom.
4. Jesus Takes Our Place
The guilty person could only leave the city after the death of the high priest. This was a foreshadowing of Jesus, who died in our place so that we might go free.
- Hebrews 9:12 – “He entered once for all into the holy places… securing an eternal redemption.”
Because of Jesus’ death, we are released from the penalty of sin.
5. Jesus Offers More Than Temporary Refuge
The cities of refuge only delayed judgment. If the avenger of blood caught the person outside the city, they would still face consequences. Jesus, however, removes our guilt permanently.
- Romans 8:1 – “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
Jesus is not just a hiding place—He is our salvation.
6. Jesus Gives Us Full Restoration
The cities of refuge provided safety, but they didn’t restore full citizenship. The person had to remain separated from their home until the high priest’s death. But with Jesus, we are fully restored as children of God.
- Ephesians 2:19 – “So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God.”
Through Jesus, we don’t just find refuge—we find our true home.
The Call to Flee to Jesus
In the Old Testament, only those who fled to the cities were saved. The same is true with Jesus—only those who run to Him will find refuge. If we delay, we risk judgment.
- Hebrews 2:3 – “How shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation?”
- Proverbs 18:10 – “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe.”
If you recognize your guilt and need for forgiveness, run to Jesus today. He is ready to receive you, to protect you, and to give you eternal life.
Conclusion: Jesus, Our Ultimate Refuge
Joshua 20 gives us a powerful picture of God’s justice and mercy. The cities of refuge were a temporary solution, but Jesus is the permanent, all-sufficient Savior.
- Are you burdened by guilt? Run to Jesus.
- Are you afraid of judgment? Find refuge in Him.
- Are you looking for true safety? He alone can give you eternal security.
Jesus is not just a city of refuge—He is our salvation.
“We who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to seize the hope set before us.” (Hebrews 6:18)
Flee to Christ. He is waiting for you.
