The Cities of Refuge Reveal God's Purpose for the Church 1.Appointed Just as God appointed Christ to be the Lamb slain before the foundation of the world "slain from the foundation of the world" (Rev. 13:8), so did God appoint the church to be Christ's body here on earth: Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church, Colossians 1:24. And through the church the gospel is preached, through the church God's power and wisdom is revealed to rulers and authorities in heavenly places. “This was according to the eternal purpose that he has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord”, Ephesians 3:8-11 2.Shelter The one who kills someone was to immediately seek shelter in the city of refuge. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Matthew 16:18-19 God provides a shelter from the avenger in the church. Likewise, the church is to be a shelter from the world, and the corruption that is in it. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8 "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved" (Acts 4:12). 3.Visible The cities were all atop a hill, visible for miles. And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” John 12:32 "God exalted with His right hand to be a Prince and a Savior, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins" (Acts 5:31). “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your...