Numbers 9:14

If a foreigner dwelling among you wants to observe the Passover to the LORD, he is to do so according to the Passover statute and its ordinances. You are to apply the same statute to both the foreigner and the native of the land.'"

Study Bible

If a foreigner dwelling among you wants to observe the Passover to the LORD
This phrase highlights the inclusivity of the Passover celebration, allowing non-Israelites to participate if they choose to worship the LORD. The term "foreigner" refers to a "sojourner" or "stranger" living among the Israelites, indicating that God's covenant community was open to those outside ethnic Israel who desired to follow Him. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's plan for all nations, as seen in Genesis 12:3, where God promises Abraham that all peoples on earth will be blessed through him. The Passover itself is a significant event commemorating Israel's deliverance from Egypt, symbolizing redemption and foreshadowing Christ's sacrificial death as the ultimate Passover Lamb (1 Corinthians 5:7).

he is to do so according to the Passover statute and its ordinances
This phrase emphasizes that the foreigner must adhere to the same regulations as the Israelites when observing the Passover. The Passover statute includes specific instructions found in Exodus 12, such as the selection of a lamb, the manner of its preparation, and the prohibition against leavened bread. This requirement underscores the importance of unity and equality within the worship community, as well as the necessity of obedience to God's commands. It also points to the idea that true worship of God requires submission to His established order, a principle echoed throughout Scripture (Deuteronomy 12:32).

You are to apply the same statute to both the foreigner and the native of the land.’”
This final phrase reinforces the principle of equality before God, as both the foreigner and the native-born Israelite are subject to the same laws. This reflects God's impartiality and justice, as seen in passages like Deuteronomy 10:17-19, where God commands Israel to love the foreigner. The equal application of the law prefigures the New Testament teaching that in Christ, there is neither Jew nor Gentile (Galatians 3:28), highlighting the unity of believers in the body of Christ. This inclusivity foreshadows the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19), where Jesus commands His followers to make disciples of all nations, emphasizing the universal scope of the gospel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Foreigner (Ger)
A non-Israelite residing among the Israelites who desires to participate in the Passover. The Hebrew term "ger" refers to a sojourner or temporary resident.

2. Passover
A significant Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from Egyptian bondage. It involves specific rituals and ordinances as outlined in the Torah.

3. Israelites
The native people of Israel, God's chosen people, who were given the Law through Moses.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, who established the Passover as a perpetual ordinance for His people.

5. Statute and Ordinances
The specific laws and regulations given by God regarding the observance of the Passover.

Teaching Points

Inclusivity in Worship
God's invitation to the foreigner to participate in the Passover demonstrates His desire for inclusivity in worship. This principle encourages us to welcome all who seek to worship God, regardless of their background.

Unity Under God's Law
The application of the same statute to both foreigners and natives underscores the unity and equality before God. In Christ, we are all one, and this should be reflected in our communities.

Obedience to God's Commands
The requirement for foreigners to observe the Passover according to God's statutes highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands. As believers, we are called to follow God's Word faithfully.

Covenant Participation
The inclusion of foreigners in the Passover signifies their participation in the covenant community. This foreshadows the New Covenant in Christ, where all believers are grafted into God's family.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the inclusion of foreigners in the Passover celebration reflect God's character and His plan for humanity?

2. In what ways can our church community be more inclusive, reflecting the principles found in Numbers 9:14?

3. How does the concept of unity under God's law in Numbers 9:14 relate to the teachings of the New Testament regarding the body of Christ?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that our worship and community life are open to all who seek God?

5. How does the requirement for foreigners to follow the Passover statutes challenge us to consider the importance of obedience in our own spiritual lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12:48-49
This passage also addresses the inclusion of foreigners in the Passover, emphasizing the requirement of circumcision and the application of the same law to both the foreigner and the native-born.

Galatians 3:28
This New Testament verse highlights the unity and equality of all believers in Christ, regardless of ethnic or social distinctions, reflecting the inclusive principle seen in Numbers 9:14.

Ephesians 2:11-22
Paul speaks of the breaking down of the dividing wall between Jews and Gentiles, making them one in Christ, which echoes the inclusive spirit of allowing foreigners to partake in the Passover.