The Feast of the Passover is one of the most significant observances in the Jewish calendar, commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt. It is a time of remembrance and celebration, marked by specific rituals and commandments as outlined in the Scriptures. However, the improper keeping of this feast has historically been met with divine displeasure and punishment, as adherence to God's instructions is paramount.

Biblical Instructions for Passover

The Passover is first instituted in Exodus 12, where God provides Moses and Aaron with detailed instructions for its observance. The Israelites are commanded to select a lamb without blemish, sacrifice it, and apply its blood to the doorposts and lintels of their homes. They are to eat the lamb with unleavened bread and bitter herbs, and none of it should remain until morning. The observance is to be kept as a lasting ordinance (Exodus 12:24-27).

Consequences of Improper Observance

The Bible records instances where the improper observance of Passover, or neglect of its statutes, resulted in divine punishment or correction. The seriousness with which God views the proper observance of His commands is evident throughout Scripture.

1. Neglect and Forgetfulness: In 2 Chronicles 30, King Hezekiah reinstitutes the Passover after a period of neglect. The text highlights that many had not kept it "as it is written" (2 Chronicles 30:5). Although God showed mercy to those who were not ceremonially clean but sought Him with a sincere heart, the narrative underscores the importance of adhering to divine instructions.

2. Failure to Observe: The neglect of Passover observance is often linked with periods of spiritual decline in Israel's history. In 2 Kings 23:21-23, King Josiah restores the Passover, which had not been kept "since the days of the judges who judged Israel" (2 Kings 23:22). This neglect is associated with the nation's departure from God's laws, leading to judgment and exile.

3. Improper Rituals: The prophet Ezekiel condemns the improper observance of holy days, including Passover, as part of Israel's broader unfaithfulness. In Ezekiel 45:21-24, the prophet outlines the correct observance of Passover, emphasizing the need for proper sacrifices and offerings. The failure to adhere to these instructions is seen as part of the nation's rebellion against God.

Theological Implications

The improper keeping of Passover serves as a broader metaphor for disobedience to God's commands. It reflects a heart that is not fully devoted to God and His covenant. The consequences of such disobedience are not merely ritualistic failures but are indicative of a deeper spiritual malaise that separates the people from God's blessings and protection.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the Passover takes on additional significance with the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who fulfills the Passover sacrifice. The Apostle Paul warns against partaking in the Lord's Supper, which is rooted in the Passover tradition, in an unworthy manner (1 Corinthians 11:27-29). This warning echoes the Old Testament emphasis on the seriousness of proper observance and the spiritual consequences of neglect.

In summary, the improper keeping of the Feast of the Passover is consistently portrayed in Scripture as a serious offense, resulting in divine punishment or correction. It serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's commands and the spiritual significance of His appointed times.2 Chronicles 30:18,20
For a multitude of the people, even many of Ephraim, and Manasseh, Issachar, and Zebulun, had not cleansed themselves, yet did they eat the passover otherwise than it was written. But Hezekiah prayed for them, saying, The good LORD pardon every one
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Letter xxii. To Eustochium.
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an improper word to make trial ... long fasts while at night they feast in secret ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter xxii to eustochium.htm

The Pilgrim's Progress
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/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the pilgrims progress.htm

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