A PLACE FOR YOU

(Joshua 20:1 – 21:42)
A Message by Rev. Dr. Vincent Leoh on 9th & 10th September 2000

We see God as He creates two kinds of cities – two cities that show us much about the nature of God and how He prioritizes human values on planet earth. The new land of Israel was to be completely different from what had previously existed in this region. God wanted his cities to reflect his character of mercy and holiness.

I. A SAFE PLACE (20:9)

God established Six Cities of Refuge. God made a distinction between premeditated murder and unintentional manslaughter.

1. Legal, Social and Ethical Implications:

• Life is sacred and precious.
• A person is innocent until proven guilty.
• Both justice and mercy must prevail.
• Live in peace and compassion.

2. Spiritual Implications:

• Flee to Christ; our refuge is in Him alone.
• God Cares! He wants you safe and protected.
• We care! The church is a hospital, not a hotel.

II. A SPIRITUAL COMMUNITY (21:1-45; cf.Lev.23.32-34)
God established 48 Levitical cities. The Levites were to maintain a saturation presence in the land, where holiness prevails.

1. A Place to Grow

Growing in worship, prayer and the Word.
Growing in the Cell – the intimacy of small covenant groups.
A place where you are at home, accepted and understood.
“You can’t go alone in KL/PJ. You need the church and the church needs you!”

2. A Place to Serve

Different ministries of the Levites (Kohath, Gershon, and Merari).
Provision is made for spiritual leadership.
Provision is made for those called to full-time work for God.

What you can do to share your faith and support your church:

Have phone……………will call.
Have pen……………….will write.
Have interest………….will come.
Have car………………..will bring.
Have money……………will tithe.
Have voice……………..will witness.
Have concern…………..will pray.
Have love……………….will share.

CONCLUSION

How significant it is for us to discover that the God of all creation, as He led His people into the Promised Land, made two kinds of provision that He continues to make today. One, He created cities of refuge to become places of safety. Two, He created Levitical cities that became places of spiritual community. And to the very present moment, the heart of God continues to beat with a deep desire for His people to practice and experience mercy and to practice and experience community.