John R. (John Ross) Macduff
The Cities of Refuge: or, The Name of Jesus
A Sunday book for the young
"The Cities of Refuge: or, The Name of Jesus" by John R. Macduff is a religious publication targeting a young audience, written in the mid-19th century. This book uses the biblical concept of Cities of Refuge—sanctuaries established in ancient Israel—to explore themes of salvation, refuge in Christ, and the significance of Jesus' name as a source of comfort and protection. In this work, Macduff articulates the theological underpinnings of these cities, with each city representing a different aspect of Jesus Christ's character and mission. The author describes six Cities of Refuge—Kedesh, Shechem, Hebron, Bezer, Ramoth, and Golan—each associated with qualities like holiness, companionship, strength, and joy. Through vivid analogies and stories of individuals fleeing for safety, Macduff illustrates how Christ serves as the ultimate refuge for believers, emphasizing the emotional and spiritual security found in Him. The narrative encourages young readers to seek refuge in Jesus, reinforcing the central message that He is their protector and savior amid life's storms.