Numbers 35

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XXXV.—What care God takes to arrange his ministers in the church and world as best promotes the edification of his people! Often, for that purpose, as in the case of the Levites, he turns a curse into a blessing. At the same time it is his will that his ministers should be suitably provided for, that they may not be embarrassed with carnal care or labour: and to provide a gospel minister ought to be the great care of every people. Such as minister to us in spiritual things have a right to reap our carnal things: and such as are engaged in gospel administrations should, as far as possible, disengage themselves from every worldly care. Never therefore should we receive worldly portions without devoting a part of them to the Lord, or the benefit of his church. How heinous is the guilt of hating and murdering our neighbours! And it is presumptuously wicked for such as are in power to permit wilful murderers to pass without the due punishment of death. But if men sinfully indulge their escape, God’s sword will in due time reach them. Yet, on the contrary, care ought to be taken that none be punished but upon sufficient examination and full proof; and that none be punished with death for any thing done contrary to his intention. But what a lively type of Jesus are these cities of refuge! What murder of God—of Christ—of our souls—of our neighbour—of time—of ordinances—of mercies and judgments—we commit ignorantly, and in unbelief! And if death overtake us loitering in our sins, we must perish in 23 them! But Jesus, in his person, covenant, blood, power, and grace, is a safe and comfortable refuge set before us in the gospel. He is every where near to flee too; and the way to him is plain and clear. Strangers, Gentiles as well as Jews, have equal access to him. Him that cometh to him he will in no wise cast out: and in him we must abide for ever, that we may be safe.—But how shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation!—if we sin wilfully, after we have received the knowledge of the truth!—if we tread under foot the Son of God, count the blood of the covenant an unholy thing, and do despite unto the Spirit of grace!