Your Refuge From the Avenger of Blood
The sermon emphasizes the ease and simplicity of finding salvation through faith in Christ Jesus, and the importance of not delaying in seeking refuge from the consequences of sin.
The preacher delves into the life of Tychicus, Paul's beloved brother and faithful servant, highlighting how Tychicus was not Paul's disciple by chance but by God's sovereign choice. Tychicus is described as a devoted spiritual brother who shared a deep bond of love and faith with Paul, willing to work behind the scenes for the sake of God's work. Paul commends Tychicus as a fellow bond-servant, emphasizing their shared heart and dedication to serving the Lord. Tychicus' example serves as a challenge for believers to live with an eternal perspective, being willing to be sent out on missions for the glory of God.
Text
It is said that in the land of Canaan, cities of refuge were so arranged, that any man might reach one of them within half a day at the utmost. Even so the word of our salvation is near to us; Jesus is a present Saviour, and the way to Him is short; it is but a simple renunciation of our own merit, and a laying hold of Jesus, to be our all in all. With regard to the roads to the city of refuge, we are told that they were strictly preserved, every river was bridged, and every obstruction removed, so that the man who fled might find an easy passage to the city. Once a year the elders went along the roads and saw to their order, so that nothing might impede the flight of any one, and cause him, through delay, to be overtaken and slain. How graciously do the promises of the gospel remove stumbling blocks from the way! Wherever there were by-roads and turnings, there were fixed up hand-posts, with the inscription upon them--"To the city of refuge!" This is a picture of the road to Christ Jesus. It is no roundabout road of the law; it is no obeying this, that, and the other; it is a straight road: "Believe, and live." It is a road so hard, that no self-righteous man can ever tread it, but so easy, that every sinner, who knows himself to be a sinner may by it find his way to heaven. No sooner did the man-slayer reach the outworks of the city than he was safe; it was not necessary for him to pass far within the walls, but the suburbs themselves were sufficient protection. Learn hence, that if you do but touch the hem of Christ's garment, you shall be made whole; if you do but lay hold upon him with "faith as a grain of mustard seed," you are safe.
"A little genuine grace ensures The death of all our sins."
Only waste no time, loiter not by the way, for the avenger of blood is swift of foot; and it may be he is at your heels at this still hour of eventide.
Sermon Outline
- The City of Refuge
- The Road to the City of Refuge
- The Promises of the Gospel
- The Road to Christ Jesus
- The Safety of the City
Key Quotes
“'A little genuine grace ensures The death of all our sins.'” — C.H. Spurgeon
“It is but a simple renunciation of our own merit, and a laying hold of Jesus, to be our all in all.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“Believe, and live.” — C.H. Spurgeon
Application Points
- Seek refuge in Christ Jesus quickly, before the consequences of sin catch up.
- Faith in Christ Jesus is the straightforward path to salvation, and it is available to all sinners.
- A little genuine faith can ensure the death of all our sins and bring us to safety in Christ Jesus.