Numbers 35
BSB1 Again the LORD spoke to Moses on the plains of Moab by the Jordan across from Jericho: 2 “Command the Israelites to give, from the inheritance they will possess, cities for the Levites to live in and pasturelands around the cities. 3 The cities will be for them to live in, and the pasturelands will be for their herds, their flocks, and all their other livestock. 4 The pasturelands around the cities you are to give the Levites will extend a thousand cubits from the wall on every side. 5 You are also to measure two thousand cubits outside the city on the east, two thousand on the south, two thousand on the west, and two thousand on the north, with the city in the center. These areas will serve as larger pasturelands for the cities. 6 Six of the cities you give the Levites are to be appointed as cities of refuge, to which a manslayer may flee. In addition to these, give the Levites forty-two other cities. 7 The total number of cities you give the Levites will be forty-eight, with their corresponding pasturelands. 8 The cities that you apportion from the territory of the Israelites should be given to the Levites in proportion to the inheritance of each tribe: more from a larger tribe and less from a smaller one." 9 Then the LORD said to Moses, 10 “Speak to the Israelites and tell them: When you cross the Jordan into the land of Canaan, 11 designate cities to serve as your cities of refuge, so that a person who kills someone unintentionally may flee there. 12 You are to have these cities as a refuge from the avenger, so that the manslayer will not die until he stands trial before the assembly. 13 The cities you select will be your six cities of refuge. 14 Select three cities across the Jordan and three in the land of Canaan as cities of refuge. 15 These six cities will serve as a refuge for the Israelites and for the foreigner or stranger among them, so that anyone who kills a person unintentionally may flee there. 16 If, however, anyone strikes a person with an iron object and kills him, he is a murderer; the murderer must surely be put to death. 17 Or if anyone has in his hand a stone of deadly size, and he strikes and kills another, he is a murderer; the murderer must surely be put to death. 18 If anyone has in his hand a deadly object of wood, and he strikes and kills another, he is a murderer; the murderer must surely be put to death. 19 The avenger of blood is to put the murderer to death; when he finds him, he is to kill him. 20 Likewise, if anyone maliciously pushes another or intentionally throws an object at him and kills him, 21 or if in hostility he strikes him with his hand and he dies, the one who struck him must surely be put to death; he is a murderer. When the avenger of blood finds the murderer, he is to kill him. 22 But if anyone pushes a person suddenly, without hostility, or throws an object at him unintentionally, 23 or without looking drops a heavy stone that kills him, but he was not an enemy and did not intend to harm him, 24 then the congregation must judge between the slayer and the avenger of blood according to these ordinances. 25 The assembly is to protect the manslayer from the hand of the avenger of blood. Then the assembly will return him to the city of refuge to which he fled, and he must live there until the death of the high priest, who was anointed with the holy oil. 26 But if the manslayer ever goes outside the limits of the city of refuge to which he fled 27 and the avenger of blood finds him outside of his city of refuge and kills him, then the avenger will not be guilty of bloodshed 28 because the manslayer must remain in his city of refuge until the death of the high priest. Only after the death of the high priest may he return to the land he owns. 29 This will be a statutory ordinance for you for the generations to come, wherever you live. 30 If anyone kills a person, the murderer is to be put to death on the testimony of the witnesses. But no one is to be put to death based on the testimony of a lone witness. 31 You are not to accept a ransom for the life of a murderer who deserves to die; he must surely be put to death. 32 Nor should you accept a ransom for the person who flees to a city of refuge and allow him to return and live on his own land before the death of the high priest. 33 Do not pollute the land where you live, for bloodshed pollutes the land, and no atonement can be made for the land on which the blood is shed, except by the blood of the one who shed it. 34 Do not defile the land where you live and where I dwell. For I, the LORD, dwell among the Israelites."
Study Notes — Numbers 35
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Numbers 35
- Themes from Numbers 35
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Numbers 35
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Numbers 35 begins with God instructing Moses to designate six cities of refuge, three on each side of the Jordan River, where those who have committed unintentional manslaughter can flee for protection. The chapter then outlines the procedures for determining whether a killing was intentional or unintentional, and the consequences for each. The cities of refuge served as a safeguard against blood vengeance, allowing the accused to stand trial and potentially receive protection. The chapter also discusses the laws regarding the unintentional killer, the role of the congregation in determining guilt or innocence, and the rules for the high priest's successor. Key verses, such as Numbers 35:11 and Numbers 35:32, highlight the importance of distinguishing between intentional and unintentional sin, and the need for a place of safety for those who have sinned unintentionally.
Context for the Chapter
Numbers 35 is part of the larger narrative of the Israelites' journey in the wilderness, where God is providing instructions for their life and governance in the Promised Land. This chapter follows the instructions for the division of the land and the allocation of cities to the Levites, emphasizing the importance of establishing a just and fair society. The concepts outlined in this chapter are crucial in understanding the Israelites' relationship with God and their responsibility to uphold justice and mercy.
Heart Application
This chapter encourages us to recognize the gravity of sin and the need for atonement, highlighting the importance of seeking refuge in Jesus Christ. We are called to distinguish between intentional and unintentional sin, and to seek forgiveness and restoration through Christ. As we reflect on the cities of refuge, we are reminded of the importance of providing a safe and supportive community for those who are seeking refuge from sin and its consequences.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Numbers 35 is about the cities of refuge, where people could go if they accidentally killed someone. The chapter teaches us about the importance of atonement and forgiveness, and how Jesus Christ is our ultimate refuge. As seen in Numbers 35:11, the cities of refuge provided a place of safety for those who had committed unintentional manslaughter, and this points forward to the ultimate safety and refuge we have in Jesus Christ.
Voices from the Church
“The cities of refuge were a type of Christ, who is our refuge and our rock in times of trouble.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The distinction between intentional and unintentional sin is crucial, for it highlights the importance of recognizing the gravity of sin and the need for atonement.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction to the Cities of Refuge (Numbers 35:1-8) — God instructs Moses to designate six cities of refuge, three on each side of the Jordan River.
- Procedures for the Cities of Refuge (Numbers 35:9-15) — The chapter outlines the procedures for determining whether a killing was intentional or unintentional, and the consequences for each.
- The Role of the Congregation (Numbers 35:16-21) — The congregation plays a significant role in determining guilt or innocence, underscoring the importance of community involvement in the judicial process.
- The Laws Regarding Unintentional Killing (Numbers 35:22-28) — The chapter discusses the laws regarding unintentional killing, including the rules for the high priest's successor.
- Conclusion (Numbers 35:29-34) — The chapter concludes with a summary of the laws and procedures outlined, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between intentional and unintentional sin.
Core Doctrines
- Atonement
- This chapter teaches us about the importance of atonement, highlighting God's justice and mercy in providing a means of making amends for sin.
- Sin and Guilt
- The distinction between intentional and unintentional sin is crucial, for it highlights the importance of recognizing the gravity of sin and the need for atonement.
- Refuge in Christ
- The cities of refuge point forward to the ultimate refuge we have in Jesus Christ, who provides a place of safety and forgiveness for all sinners.
- Community Involvement
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of community involvement in the judicial process, highlighting the role of the congregation in determining guilt or innocence.
Lessons from Numbers 35
- The Importance of Atonement — The chapter highlights the need for atonement, demonstrating God's justice and mercy.
- The Distinction Between Intentional and Unintentional Sin — The chapter emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between intentional and unintentional sin, highlighting the different consequences for each.
- The Role of the Congregation — The congregation plays a significant role in determining guilt or innocence, underscoring the importance of community involvement in the judicial process.
- Refuge in Christ — The cities of refuge point forward to the ultimate refuge we have in Jesus Christ, who provides a place of safety and forgiveness for all sinners.
- Community Involvement — The chapter emphasizes the importance of community involvement in the judicial process, highlighting the role of the congregation in determining guilt or innocence.
Themes from Numbers 35
- Atonement and Forgiveness — The chapter highlights the importance of atonement and forgiveness, demonstrating God's justice and mercy.
- Sin and Guilt — The distinction between intentional and unintentional sin is crucial, for it highlights the importance of recognizing the gravity of sin and the need for atonement.
- Refuge and Safety — The cities of refuge provide a place of safety for those who have committed unintentional sin, pointing forward to the ultimate refuge we have in Jesus Christ.
- Community and Justice — The chapter emphasizes the importance of community involvement in the judicial process, highlighting the role of the congregation in determining guilt or innocence.
- God's Justice and Mercy — The chapter demonstrates God's justice and mercy in providing a means of making amends for sin, highlighting the importance of seeking refuge in Jesus Christ.
Questions for Meditation
- What is the significance of the cities of refuge in Numbers 35, and how do they point forward to Jesus Christ?
- How does the chapter distinguish between intentional and unintentional sin, and what are the consequences for each?
- What role does the congregation play in determining guilt or innocence, and what does this teach us about community involvement in the judicial process?
- How does the concept of atonement in Numbers 35 relate to the ultimate atonement made by Jesus Christ?
- What practical lessons can we apply to our lives from the teachings in Numbers 35, particularly in regards to seeking refuge in Jesus Christ?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction to the Cities of Refuge (Numbers 35:1-8)
| 35:1 | God instructs Moses to designate six cities of refuge, three on each side of the Jordan River. |
| 35:2 | The Levites are instructed to give the Israelites cities to live in, along with the pasturelands around them. |
2. Procedures for the Cities of Refuge (Numbers 35:9-15)
| 35:9 | The chapter outlines the procedures for determining whether a killing was intentional or unintentional, and the consequences for each. |
| 35:10 | The unintentional killer is to flee to one of the cities of refuge, where they will be protected from blood vengeance. |
3. The Role of the Congregation (Numbers 35:16-21)
| 35:16 | The congregation plays a significant role in determining guilt or innocence, underscoring the importance of community involvement in the judicial process. |
| 35:17 | The congregation is to determine whether the killing was intentional or unintentional, and the consequences for each. |
4. The Laws Regarding Unintentional Killing (Numbers 35:22-28)
| 35:22 | The chapter discusses the laws regarding unintentional killing, including the rules for the high priest's successor. |
| 35:23 | The unintentional killer is to remain in the city of refuge until the death of the high priest. |
5. Conclusion (Numbers 35:29-34)
| 35:29 | The chapter concludes with a summary of the laws and procedures outlined, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between intentional and unintentional sin. |
| 35:30 | The chapter emphasizes the importance of atonement and forgiveness, demonstrating God's justice and mercy. |
6. Final Instructions (Numbers 35:33-34)
| 35:33 | The chapter concludes with a final instruction, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between intentional and unintentional sin. |
| 35:34 | The chapter concludes with a reminder of God's justice and mercy, highlighting the importance of seeking refuge in Jesus Christ. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the cities of refuge in Numbers 35?
The cities of refuge provided a place of safety for those who had committed unintentional manslaughter, and they point forward to the ultimate refuge we have in Jesus Christ (Numbers 35:11, Hebrews 6:18).
How does the chapter distinguish between intentional and unintentional sin?
The chapter distinguishes between intentional and unintentional sin by outlining different procedures and consequences for each (Numbers 35:9-15, Numbers 35:16-21).
What role does the congregation play in determining guilt or innocence?
The congregation plays a significant role in determining guilt or innocence, underscoring the importance of community involvement in the judicial process (Numbers 35:16-21).
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Numbers 35:11 → Deuteronomy 19:1-13 | Both passages discuss the cities of refuge and the procedures for determining guilt or innocence. |
| 2 | Numbers 35:15 → Joshua 20:1-9 | Both passages discuss the designation of cities of refuge and the rules for the unintentional killer. |
| 3 | Numbers 35:22 → Exodus 21:12-14 | Both passages discuss the laws regarding unintentional killing and the rules for the high priest's successor. |
| 4 | Numbers 35:25 → Leviticus 4:1-12 | Both passages discuss the laws regarding unintentional sin and the importance of atonement. |
| 5 | Numbers 35:30 → Deuteronomy 17:8-13 | Both passages discuss the importance of community involvement in the judicial process and the role of the congregation in determining guilt or innocence. |
| 6 | Numbers 35:33 → Hebrews 6:18 | Both passages discuss the concept of refuge and the importance of seeking refuge in Jesus Christ. |
| 7 | Numbers 35:33 → 1 John 2:1 | Both passages discuss the concept of atonement and the importance of seeking forgiveness through Jesus Christ. |
| 8 | Numbers 35:34 → Psalm 51:1-19 | Both passages discuss the importance of seeking forgiveness and the role of atonement in God's justice and mercy. |
| 9 | Numbers 35:11 → Matthew 11:28 | Both passages discuss the concept of refuge and the importance of seeking refuge in Jesus Christ. |
| 10 | Numbers 35:15 → Romans 3:24-25 | Both passages discuss the concept of atonement and the importance of seeking forgiveness through Jesus Christ. |
Sermons on Numbers 35
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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God's Judgement & Mercy by Alan Redpath | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of God's judgment and the target of that judgment. He emphasizes that listening to the law only makes people desire to break it, |
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(Through the Bible) Deuteronomy 17-20 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Moses is giving his final instructions to the children of Israel before his death. He emphasizes the importance of offering sacrifices that are valuable and not cas |
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Jude: Last Days - Balaam 2 by Martin Geehan | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for the love of Christ to be present in the world. He believes that until people have Christ's love in their hearts towards one ano |
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Christ Our City of Refuge by Hoseah Wu | In this sermon, Richard from Elizabeth introduces his brother Levine to say a few words. Levine expresses his love for bagels and locks and praises the inspiring words written by a |
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(2 Samuel) Settling an Old Debt by David Guzik | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of keeping promises and being people of our word. They highlight how the entertainment industry often operates on dishonesty, b |
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Studies in Zechariah 06 Zechariah 6: by John W. Bramhall | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the vision described in Zechariah 6:1-8. The vision involves four chariots coming from between two mountains of brass. Each chariot is pulle |
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The City of Refuge. by Andrew Bonar | Andrew Bonar preaches on the concept of cities of refuge as a divine provision for sinners, illustrating how these cities symbolize the salvation found in Christ. He emphasizes tha |
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Numbers 35:11 by Chuck Smith | Chuck Smith emphasizes the significance of the Cities of Refuge as a foreshadowing of Christ, illustrating how these cities provided safety for those who accidentally killed someon |
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Satan's Tools by Charles E. Cowman | Charles E. Cowman preaches about the importance of laying aside every weight and sin that hinders our Christian progress, emphasizing the dangers of despondency and murmuring which |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Numbers 35
Matthew Henry's commentary on Numbers 35 highlights the importance of atonement and forgiveness, demonstrating God's justice and mercy. He notes that the cities of refuge point forward to the ultimate refuge we have in Jesus Christ, who provides a place of safety and forgiveness for all sinners. Henry also emphasizes the importance of community involvement in the judicial process, highlighting the role of the congregation in determining guilt or innocence. He concludes by noting that the chapter teaches us about the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement, and that Jesus Christ is our ultimate atonement and refuge (Numbers 35:11, Numbers 35:33). Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Importance of Atonement
The chapter highlights the need for atonement, demonstrating God's justice and mercy. This is seen in the establishment of the cities of refuge and the procedures for determining guilt or innocence.
The Distinction Between Intentional and Unintentional Sin
The chapter emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between intentional and unintentional sin, highlighting the different consequences for each. This distinction is crucial in understanding God's justice and mercy.
The Role of the Congregation
The congregation plays a significant role in determining guilt or innocence, underscoring the importance of community involvement in the judicial process.