It was no accident that Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection occurred during the Jewish feast of Passover. In fact, every instance where Passover is celebrated in Scripture is incredibly significant and points towards what Jesus accomplished that day on the cross. Taking a closer look at each of these events is helping us grasp something of the wider purposes of God at this momentous event.
In the previous post we realized that Passover was not just about bringing freedom FROM something, but also about gaining freedom FOR something. We saw that the inaugural Passover resulted in the Israelites’ release from the bondage to slavery in Egypt (Exod 12).
The second Passover was celebrated at the dedication of the Tabernacle (Num 9:1-6). This was a major event that heralded the presence of God coming right into the centre of the Israelite camp. Freedom from slavery to sin and the presence of God coming to dwell in each new believer is foundational to our own understanding of what Jesus came to accomplish for each of us.
Passover Neglected
Even though the Israelites are instructed to celebrate Passover every year in remembrance of the mighty acts God did in bringing them out of Egypt (Exod 13:9-10), it seems that their rebellion and disobedience after the 10 spies brought back their report, not only resulted in 40 years in the desert, but also a failure to continue celebrating Passover. They had lost their way and almost forgotten who they were meant to be.
We all go through times when we can lose our way. But let’s not follow the example of the Israelites – even through God’s presence was right there with them and He continued to provide in miraculous ways, their focus was largely on themselves. Instead, let’s remind ourselves of Jesus’ victorious death, burial and resurrection. Through Jesus we are set free of our past and we now belong to Him. His presence is continually within us and He is the one who brings us through.
Passover and Freedom
The next recorded Passover occurs after 40 years of desert wanderings. The Israelites finally cross the Jordan River and enter the promised land, the land of Canaan. This Passover at Gilgal (Josh 5:1-12) highlights a further aspect of Passover that has been in the background up until this point.
Circumcision points back to God’s original call of Abraham (Gen 17). It pre-dates the law and was put in place by God as an outward sign of God’s covenant with the Israelite people (Gen 17:10-11). Specifically, it signified their consecration to God alone. It was a prerequisite for the initial Passover in Egypt (Exod 12:48). It now comes to the forefront as circumcision had been totally neglected during their 40 years in the desert.
At Gilgal they were completely set free from every remaining aspect of their slavery in Egypt. The shame of it was “rolled away” (which is what the name Gilgal means). And the desert period which had resulted from their rebellion and disobedience to God had also come to a final end. This Passover brought a decisive and lasting change, and they were able to enter the promised land totally freed from their past.
Passover and Cleansing
There are four more times Passover is recorded as being celebrated in the Old Testament. Each of these events are significant as they all centre around the temple and involve a re-dedication to serving God alone.
During the time of the kings, Passover is celebrated by King Solomon at the completion of building the temple (1 Kgs 9:25; cf. 2 Chron 8:12-13). The next recorded Passover is during the time of King Hezekiah when he re-sanctified the temple (2 Chron 30). However the Bible records that only some of the people had taken the time to properly cleanse and prepare themselves for the celebration. King Josiah also celebrates Passover after bringing major reform which included eradication of pagan idols from the land (2 Kgs 23:1-27; 2 Chron 35:1-19). (You might like to check these out for yourself.)
Finally, a joyful Passover is held after the temple is rebuilt following the return from exile (Ezra 6:19-22). This time, the people are already prepared, having cleansed themselves beforehand.
Passover and Jesus
Isn’t it amazing how each Passover recorded in Scripture sheds light on what Jesus accomplished on the cross – as our Passover lamb? Jesus’ death and resurrection not only provides freedom and cleansing, but He also begins a process of tremendous transformation. We are not just set free from sin, we are also set apart as His holy people. Plus, His powerful presence comes to live in us. And God has made all of this is freely available to every one of us.
Thinking back through these Passover celebrations, what strikes you the most?
At Easter we remember Jesus’ death burial and resurrection. When we take Communion we do the same. Let’s also consider making it a time of rededication and cleansing from any sin – of “heart circumcision” and rolling away of anything that has held us back; of recommitment to serving God alone; and of joyous celebration for all that Jesus has accomplished for us.
