Old Testament reading: Numbers 35-36
Numbers 35 notes the cities given to the Levites, who had no specific land or tribal inheritance in Canaan. However, this is not the same as saying they did not own property or enter into common labors as their brethren. Note how there was “common land” surrounding the city on each side “for their cattle, their herds, and for all their animals.” Also seen is the provision of the six cities of refuge. While the location and identification of these cities will not be brought to fruition until Canaan is conquered under Joshua’s leadership in Joshua 20-21, there is still somewhat to be learned of them from the text. First and foremost, I think it is important to remember that the cities of refuge did not protect those guilty of murder. Verses 22-25 are clear that one who flees to such a city would still be subject to examination by the congregation to determine guilt or innocence. Another thing we should note in these cities is their place as a picture of God’s plan to redeem through Jesus Christ. As the death of the death of the high priest released the man from the penalty of his error, so also did the death of Jesus, our high priest (Heb 7:26-27).
New Testament reading: Romans 13-14
Of note today is the permission given to civil government to practice capital punishment upon evil doers. Speaking of governing authorities, Paul wrote, “For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not hear the sword in vain.” To bear or use the sword is a clear reference to capital punishment, that is, to execute or put to death those who do evil. Paul himself publicly affirmed the government’s right to practice such and declared himself as not only subject to it but also willing to have it practiced on him should he be found guilty of acts deserving such (Acts 25:11). There are numerous reasons why one might oppose capital punishment. For example, one might oppose it because he believes it is administered unfairly against the poor or against a specific segment of people. But Romans 13 removes any biblical argument against its practice. We might also note that timeliness in administering such is key to its effectiveness in deterring crime (cf Ecc 8:11).
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