Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionThe Passover is one of the most significant memorials in the Judeo-Christian tradition, commemorating the deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. It is a foundational event in the history of Israel and is celebrated annually as a reminder of God's mighty acts of salvation and His covenant faithfulness. Biblical Origin The institution of the Passover is recorded in the Book of Exodus. The Israelites, under the oppressive rule of Pharaoh, cried out to God for deliverance. God appointed Moses to lead His people out of Egypt, and after a series of plagues, the final and most devastating plague was announced: the death of the firstborn in every Egyptian household (Exodus 11:4-6). To protect the Israelites, God commanded them to sacrifice a lamb without blemish and to apply its blood to the doorposts and lintels of their homes. This act of faith would cause the Lord to "pass over" their houses, sparing them from the plague of death (Exodus 12:7, 12-13). The Passover lamb thus became a symbol of God's provision and protection. Observance and Rituals The Passover is observed on the 14th day of the first month, Nisan, in the Hebrew calendar. The original instructions for the Passover meal included roasting the lamb, eating it with unleavened bread and bitter herbs, and consuming it in haste, as a reminder of the urgency of their departure from Egypt (Exodus 12:8-11). The Feast of Unleavened Bread follows the Passover and lasts for seven days, during which no leavened bread is to be eaten. This symbolizes the purity and separation from the old life of bondage (Exodus 12:15-20). Significance in Israelite History The Passover is not merely a historical event but a perpetual ordinance for the Israelites. It serves as a reminder of God's deliverance and the establishment of Israel as His chosen people. The annual celebration reinforces the identity of the Israelites as a people redeemed by God and bound by His covenant (Exodus 12:24-27). Theological Implications The Passover holds deep theological significance, foreshadowing the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. The New Testament draws a parallel between the Passover lamb and Christ, who was sacrificed to deliver humanity from the bondage of sin (1 Corinthians 5:7). The blood of Christ, like the blood of the Passover lamb, provides protection and salvation for those who believe. New Testament Observance Jesus celebrated the Passover with His disciples, instituting the Lord's Supper during the meal. This act transformed the Passover into a new covenant memorial, commemorating His sacrificial death and the promise of eternal life (Luke 22:14-20). The early Christian church continued to observe the Passover, now with a focus on Christ's redemptive work. Conclusion The Passover remains a vital memorial in both Jewish and Christian traditions, symbolizing God's deliverance, faithfulness, and the hope of redemption. It serves as a powerful reminder of the continuity of God's salvation history and His unchanging promise to His people. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 12:14And this day shall be to you for a memorial; and you shall keep it a feast to the LORD throughout your generations; you shall keep it a feast by an ordinance for ever. Nave's Topical Index Library The Passover: an Expiation and a Feast, a Memorial and a Prophecy Christ Our Passover The New Passover Thought, Deed, Word The Lord's Supper And Jesus Six Days Before the Passover... The New Passover B. The Last Supper. Ch. 22:7-38 A Woman's Memorial The Fifth Day in Passion-Week - Make Ready the Passover!' Resources Who was Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Christian calendar? | GotQuestions.org What is the importance of the Lord's supper / Christian Communion? | GotQuestions.org Memorial: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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