Jos 21:4 | MHM | STEP | v. 4–5 : God ordered exactly how many cities the Levites should have, and the Israelites followed His command. The Levites were also given land around the cities, so they could support themselves (Numbers 35:4,5 ). This shows that God cares for those who serve Him and that everyone should make sure ministers have what they need. v. 4–7 : The forty-eight cities were divided by lot among the four families of the Levites. The family of Aaron, who were the priests, got thirteen cities near Jerusalem, even though the city of Jerusalem itself was not given at this time ( v. 4 ). The Kohathites (relatives of Aaron) got cities in Dan, Ephraim, and half of Manasseh. Gershon’s descendants, though the oldest, were given their portion after the Kohathites ( v. 6 ). The Merarites, the youngest family, received their cities last, and these cities were farthest away ( v. 7 ). This shows that God carefully directed where His servants would live, so they could serve as spiritual lights throughout the land.

‏ Joshua 21:4

v. 4–5: God ordered exactly how many cities the Levites should have, and the Israelites followed His command. The Levites were also given land around the cities, so they could support themselves (Numbers 35:4,5 ^a). This shows that God cares for those who serve Him and that everyone should make sure ministers have what they need.

v. 4–7: The forty-eight cities were divided by lot among the four families of the Levites. The family of Aaron, who were the priests, got thirteen cities near Jerusalem, even though the city of Jerusalem itself was not given at this time (v. 4 ^b). The Kohathites (relatives of Aaron) got cities in Dan, Ephraim, and half of Manasseh. Gershon’s descendants, though the oldest, were given their portion after the Kohathites (v. 6 ^c). The Merarites, the youngest family, received their cities last, and these cities were farthest away (v. 7 ^d). This shows that God carefully directed where His servants would live, so they could serve as spiritual lights throughout the land.