In this lesson, Joy Welsh discusses the significance of staying in the land, specifically focusing on Joshua 21:45. She emphasizes the importance of reading different translations and understanding the essence of the Word. Joy explores the concept of Cities of Refuge, their purpose, intentional placement, and the protection they provided for those who unintentionally caused harm. She connects this concept to Jesus being our ultimate refuge and encourages believers to create homes filled with grace and peace. Additionally, Joy highlights the passage from Psalm 139, emphasizing God’s knowledge and presence in our lives, His plan for each individual, and the call for His guidance and recognition of any wickedness within us. She asks if the church is truly a place of refuge and mentions the women’s ministry mission statement, focusing on equipping and edifying women in their faith. The lesson concludes with a prayer and encouragement to participate in small groups.
Lesson Overview
Introduction of Joshua 20-21 Lesson by Joy Welsh
Welcome to the lesson on Joshua 20-21! In this insightful lesson, Joy Welsh will guide you through the important themes and teachings found in these chapters of the Bible.
Video by Refuge Calvary Chapel
To supplement this lesson, there is a helpful video by Refuge Calvary Chapel that you can watch. It provides an in-depth analysis of Joshua 21:45 and emphasizes the significance of staying in the promised land.
Focus on Joshua 21:45 and the importance of staying in the land
Joshua 21:45 serves as the focal point of this lesson. It emphasizes the faithfulness of God and the importance of remaining in the land He has given. As we delve deeper into this verse, we will explore its meaning and implications for our own lives.
Importance of reading different translations and understanding the Word
While studying the Word of God, it is crucial to consider different translations. In the lesson, Joy Welsh highlights the value of reading various translations, including paraphrases like the Message. By employing this approach, we gain a better understanding of the Bible’s teachings.
Being thankful and prepared for what God has for us
As Christians, it is integral to cultivate gratitude and readiness for what God has in store for us. Throughout this lesson, we will be reminded of the significance of having a thankful heart and being prepared to receive God’s blessings.
Christian life as a series of triumphs, not crises
The lesson also explores the idea that the Christian life should be characterized by a series of triumphs rather than constant crises. By centering our faith on God’s promises and trusting in His guidance, we can experience a life marked by victory and joy.
Cities of Refuge
Introduction to the concept of Cities of Refuge
Cities of Refuge were designated cities in ancient Israel where individuals who unintentionally caused someone’s death could seek protection from the avenger of blood.
Purpose of Cities of Refuge
The primary purpose of Cities of Refuge was to provide a safe haven for individuals who inadvertently committed manslaughter. Rather than facing immediate retribution, they could seek refuge until their case was heard and a fair judgment was made.
Explanation of intentional placement of Cities of Refuge
The Cities of Refuge were strategically placed in both the trans Jordan and cis Jordan regions to ensure accessibility for all the people of Israel. The intentional placement demonstrated God’s wisdom and care for His people.
Bible references for further study
To gain a deeper understanding of the concept of Cities of Refuge and their significance, there are various Bible references that you can explore. These include Numbers 35, Deuteronomy 4, and Joshua 20.
Intentional and Universal
Cities of Refuge in Deuteronomy
Deuteronomy sheds further light on the intentional and universal nature of the Cities of Refuge. It outlines the conditions under which these cities would serve as havens, particularly for unintentional killings.
Intentional, purposeful, conditional, and universal nature of the cities
The Cities of Refuge were intentionally established with specific purposes and conditions. Their purpose was to protect those who unintentionally caused someone’s death, while their existence was contingent upon the availability of the high priest.
Protection for unintentional killings
If someone unintentionally killed another person, they could seek refuge in one of the Cities of Refuge. By doing so, they were shielded from the avenger of blood who sought retribution.
Avenger of Blood for intentional killings
However, it is crucial to note that Cities of Refuge did not offer protection for intentional killings. In cases of intentional murder, the avenger of blood was responsible for seeking justice.
Judgment by the Priests
Priests’ role in determining whether a death was intentional or unintentional
The priests played a pivotal role in determining whether a death was caused intentionally or unintentionally. Through their judgment, they ensured justice was upheld and the rights of all parties involved were protected.
Consequence for unintentional killers: staying in the city until the high priest’s death
If someone was declared to have caused an unintentional death, they would remain in the City of Refuge until the high priest passed away. This consequence ensured that justice was served while also offering protection to the unintentional killer.
Centralized and Accessible
Cities of Refuge centralized and easily accessible
To ensure the effectiveness of the Cities of Refuge, they were centrally located and easily accessible to all the people of Israel. This intentional placement allowed individuals to reach safety swiftly and without obstacles.
Clear roads and signs leading to the cities
To facilitate the journey to the Cities of Refuge, clear roads and signs were established. These visible markers ensured that those seeking refuge could find their way quickly and efficiently.
Jesus as Our Ultimate Refuge
Jesus as the ultimate refuge for forgiveness and grace
Just as the ancient Cities of Refuge offered protection and sanctuary, Jesus serves as our ultimate refuge. Through His sacrifice, we find forgiveness, grace, and salvation. He is our safe haven in times of trouble.
Creating Refuges in Our Homes
Believers encouraged to make their homes places of refuge
As followers of Christ, we are called to create havens of refuge in our homes. Our households should be filled with grace, love, and peace, offering a sense of security and comfort to those who enter.
Filling homes with grace and peace
To fulfill this calling, we must strive to cultivate an atmosphere of grace and peace within our homes. By extending kindness, forgiveness, and understanding to one another, we create a refuge where God’s love is evident.
Genuine and Consistent Behavior
Importance of being genuine and consistent in behavior at home and in public
Living a life of integrity is vital, both within the confines of our homes and in our interactions with others in public. It is essential to align our behavior with our beliefs, displaying authenticity and consistency in all areas of life.
God’s Knowledge and Presence
Psalm 139 speaks of God’s knowledge and presence
Psalm 139 beautifully expresses God’s omniscience and omnipresence in our lives. It serves as a reminder that God knows and understands every aspect of our being and intimately attends to our needs.
Highlighting God’s understanding of every aspect of a person’s life
In our pursuit of building a relationship with God, we can find comfort in knowing that He comprehends every detail of our lives. He is aware of our strengths, weaknesses, joys, and sorrows.
God’s plan and intimate knowledge of individuals
Furthermore, Psalm 139 further emphasizes God’s intimate knowledge of each individual. He intricately designed us and has a unique plan for our lives.
Seeking God’s guidance and recognition of wickedness within oneself
With God’s deep understanding of our hearts, it is crucial to seek His guidance and wisdom. We can trust in His discernment and ask Him to reveal any wickedness within us, desiring to live virtuously with His help.
Worship and Conclusion
Song mentioned: ‘You Are a Refuge’
During the lesson, a song called ‘You Are a Refuge’ was referenced. This powerful song reminds us of God’s unwavering love, His role as our ultimate refuge, and the safety we find in Him.
Speaker concludes with prayer and encourages participation in small groups
As the lesson draws to a close, the speaker offers a heartfelt prayer, seeking God’s presence and anointing in the lives of the listeners. Additionally, participation in small groups is encouraged, fostering a sense of community and support in one’s faith journey.