Who was continuing to give these instructions to Joshua?

What type of cities did God tell Joshua to appoint? Who had he given these instructions to first?

Under what conditions might a person be required to flee to one of these cities? What will the cities be a refuge from?

What is the process for entrance once a person reaches the city gates? Who will he present his case to?

What will the elders of the city do if the avenger of blood pursues the person? Why?

How long must the manslayer remain in the city? What can he do after that?

What are the names of the six cities of refuge mentioned here?

Are these cities of refuge only for the Israelites? 

Who does the manslayer need to appear before for his trial? 

Thought Questions

Read Numbers 35:9-34 and Deuteronomy 19:1-13 to compare the command to Moses to the command given to Joshua to be carried out. What further description of murder vs. unintentional manslaughter do you find there?  What does this detailed description of appropriate vengeance tell you about the early Israelite society?

What impression does verse 4 give you regarding the system of justice—and love—that was given to the people? 

Much has been said about the symbolism of the cities of refuge for Christ’s mercy and help for us, as sinners. What connections do you make? 

Looking at your past personal sins, which of them might fall under the category of “intentional” as opposed to “unintentional?” Why do we need God’s mercy even for our unintentional sins? Can even unintentional sins hurt other people, and God?

Have their been any instances in your life where you have committed sin, but you believe that God’s mercy shielded you or someone else from the natural consequences of that action?

My prayer is:

Praise to God who has given a real system of protection and mercy to His people, even if they are guilty sinners;

Understanding of the difference between “intentional” and “unintentional” sin, and the understanding that even unintentional sin causes pain and requires God’s mercy.