Numbers 35:22 But if he thrust him suddenly without enmity, or have cast upon him any thing without laying of wait, 24 Then the congregation shall judge between the slayer and the revenger of blood according to these judgments.
[Patriarchs & Prophets pp 515>516] The case of the fugitive was to be fairly tried by the proper authorities, and only when found innocent of intentional murder was he to be protected in the city of refuge. The guilty were given up to the avenger. And those who were entitled to protection could receive it only on condition of remaining within the appointed refuge. Should one wander away beyond the prescribed limits, and be found by the avenger of blood, his life would pay the penalty of his disregard of the Lord's provision.
At the death of the high priest, however, all who had sought shelter in the cities of refuge were at liberty to return to their possessions. In a trial for murder the accused was not to be condemned on the testimony of one witness, even though circumstantial evidence might be strong against him. The Lord's direction was, “Whoso killeth any person, the murderer shall be put to death by the mouth of witnesses: but one witness shall not testify against any person to cause him to die.” Numbers 35:30.
It was Christ who gave to Moses these directions for Israel; and when personally with His disciples on earth, as He taught them how to treat the erring, the Great Teacher repeated the lesson that one man's testimony is not to acquit or condemn. One man's views and opinions are not to settle disputed questions. In all these matters two or more are to be associated, and together they are to bear the responsibility, “that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.” Matthew 18:16.
Psalms 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 2 Therefore will not we fear.
May God add His blessing to the study of His word. “Good night” and God bless!