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Passover

Passover is a fundamental symbol of redemption in both Judaism and Christianity. A study of the historical development of Passover from the Old to the New Testament offers a glimpse into the substance of the Jewish and Christian faiths.
This appointed time occurs on 14th day of the first lunar month of YHWH’s calendar.

POINTS TO CONSIDER FROM THE “OLD TESTAMENT”

The Passover in Jewish History. The observance is on the 14th day of the first month, commemorating YHWH’s “passing over” the Israelite homes in Egypt during the final plague (Exodus 12:13). The name PASSOVER was given to the lamb to be sacrificed each year. The events of that evening are today ritualized by the Seder meal and re-telling of the Exodus story.

The Passover as a Prophetic Feast and Festival of Hope. There is a fulfillment of the promise made to Abraham concerning his descendants (Genesis 15:13, 14). Passover represents the realization of the covenant YHWH repeated to Moses (Exodus 6:2-6). At times of tribulation, Passover challenged YHWH’s people to look forward to liberation and restoration.

The Passover as YHWH’s Object Lesson. YHWH’s justice demands atonement for sin; His mercy provides the means of atonement. The lamb foreshadowed the One who was to be sent by the Father to be the Passover sacrifice (Exodus 12:5; Hebrews 9:14) for those in the household of faith.

POINTS TO CONSIDER FROM THE “NEW TESTAMENT”

Plan of Redemption. YHWH’s plan begins with Yahushua’s sacrifice for sins; personal application of the redemption is by individual acceptance of that sacrifice.

The Gospel Accounts. There is mention of the Passover in the New Testament and its continued observance after the Crucifixion. Of particular note, Luke 22:15 Yahushua says He “desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer.” This reference is exclusive to the meal and is a sign of unity with the Father and dependence on divine care. Luke 22:16 states that Messiah expected the eating of the Passover to continue until the “marriage supper” (Revelation 19:9), as well as the ultimate fulfillment of the feast-yet-future.

THE MEANING OF “CHRISTIAN” PASSOVER

There are three theological meanings:
Past: It is a proclamation of the death of Yahushua (1 Corinthians 11:26). Remembrance goes beyond historical events and becomes a proclamation and appropriation by the believer of the benefits of Messiah’s death (i.e., the provision of His redemption).

Present: Each celebration is a new confirmation of YHWH’s covenant with His church (Mark 14:24; Deuteronomy 7:7-9). The Passover reaffirms the eternal covenant YHWH promised (Jeremiah 32:40; Jeremiah 50:5; Isaiah 55:3; Ezekiel 16:60) and seals it in the blood of Messiah (Hebrew 13:20).

Future: Passover is an anticipated Messianic banquet (Mark 14:25; Matthew 26:29; Luke 22:16, 18; 1 Corinthians 11:26). It is the beginning of a joyful journey leading to a happy reunion with the Savior (Revelation 19:9).

DOES PASSOVER REFER TO THE FEAST OR THE LAMB THAT WAS SACRIFICED?

The term refers to both, depending on the context:

• Examples of the sacrificed lamb being called Passover: Exodus 12:21; Deuteronomy 16:2, 5; 2 Chronicles 30:15; Numbers 9:5, 10, 11
• Examples of the appointed time being called Passover: Matthew 26:2, 18; Mark 14:1; Luke 2:41; John 2:13; John 6:4; Hebrews 11:28

WANT TO LEARN MORE?
Beginning the New Year
Passover — The Seven Day Festival

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