Sun 7 May

Capital punishment – is it sanctioned by God? There are verses that speak of taking the life of a murderer. There are a range of actions that require capital punishment to be enacted. Murder, adultery, disobedient children, blasphemy, to name a few. Stephen was stoned to death for false teaching. A woman caught in adultery was about to be stoned to death until Jesus intervened. Jesus was crucified for blasphemy. 

However, what about if someone accidentally or unintentionally kills someone. The law had this covered with the establishment of the Cities of Refuge. If you accidentally killed someone, you could flee to one of these cities and find protection from the avenger of blood.

The elders interviewed you at the city gate, and they decided to let you in or not. After the court case has taken place and the death was found to be accidental, you were free to return home once the ruling High Priest had died.

Jesus Christ is our city of refuge. He provides us with protection from the wrath of God. In your time of need, Jesus will provide you with refuge and protection.