June 1, 2004

THE SURE REFUGE

"That by two immutable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we might have strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold of the hope set before us" (Hebrews 6:18, NKJV).

The portrait of Christ as a secure refuge is an allusion to the six cities of refuge that were strategically located throughout Israel as asylums for anyone who inadvertently committed a capital offense (see Numbers 35:11-32). These cities of refuge were a symbol of the refuge provided and revealed in Jesus Christ.--(See Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 516)

Through Christ's atoning blood and His mediatorial ministry in the heavenly sanctuary, we have a sure refuge. All who flee to Christ in His mediatorial work and "lay hold of the hope set before us" (Hebrews 6:18, NKJV), are securely sheltered in Him. In the cities of refuge, those who received asylum were given full immunity from prosecution or execution as long as they remained within the confines of the safety zone. To leave could be fatal.

Christ's sustaining grace is our only safety. We are secure only as we remain in Him. He assumes full responsibility for our safety. Here are His promises of a double protection: "I give unto them eternal life... neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them to me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand" (John 10:28, 29). In our refuge, we have a living hope, a strong consolation, and a sure anchor. Here is added assurance about our sure refuge: "The offering made by our Saviour was of sufficient value to make a full expiation for the sins of the whole world, and all who by repentance and faith flee to this Refuge, will find security."--Signs of the Times, January 20, 1881.

My Prayer Today: Lord, help me never to leave the safety zone of Your refuge. Amen.