Passover: The Journey to Liberation

Passover commemorates the miraculous deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. As recounted in the Book of Exodus, the final plague struck Egypt, sparing the Israelites whose doorposts were marked with the blood of sacrificial lambs. This act of divine protection symbolises the beginning of their journey to freedom and liberation. For us, the Passover points to the sacrifice of Jesus—the Lamb of God—by which mankind receives forgiveness of sins and salvation of the soul. When John the Baptist saw Jesus, he said, "Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world" (John 1:29).

Unleavened Bread: Purification and Renewal

Following Passover, the Feast of Unleavened Bread ensues, lasting for seven days. During this time, the Israelites were instructed to remove all leaven—a symbol of sin and impurity—from their homes. This cleansing process signifies a spiritual purification and renewal, preparing them for the journey ahead. The feast of Unleavened Bread points to the pure state of Jesus, a man born without sin (2 Corinthians 5:21). Just as leaven symbolises sin and evil, Jesus, as the "Bread of Life," was without sin and corruption. The feast calls us to examine our lives, purify our hearts, and cast away sin.

First Fruits: The Promise of Resurrection

The festival of First Fruits is celebrated during the week-long celebration of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, and marks the offering of the first sheaves of the early harvest. This symbolizes the resurrection of Jesus, the first fruit of the corruptible and immortal church, and the promise of new life.

The Easter Connection: A Journey of Redemption

The parallels between these Old Testament festivals and the Easter narrative are striking. Just as the Israelites embarked on a journey from slavery to freedom, Christian Israelites commemorate Jesus' journey from death to resurrection—a journey of salvation and redemption.

Although Easter and Passover do not always coincide exactly, there remains great significance in the events of the Passover when the Messiah, Jesus Christ, fulfilled the narrative of the feast by becoming the Passover lamb, and what has become known in Christendom as “Easter”. Jesus died and rose from the grave to defeat death for all mankind and especially his people Israel (Luke 2:32).

As we reflect on this profound connection between Passover and Easter, we remember that Jesus fulfilled the role of the Passover Lamb and offered the opportunity to save the soul, pledging to resurrect the dead upon his return. Furthermore, Jesus's resurrection served as a tangible demonstration of the reality of a physical immortal body, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 15:53-54. A promise that is also made without death at His return. We look forward to that day and hope for that promise of an immortal physical body.

As we gather for our Good Friday service at 9:30 am on Friday, March 29, 2024, let us reflect on the profound significance of these holy events.

Join us as we delve deeper into this spiritual connection and celebrate the transformative power of Easter. All are welcome to join us in commemorating this special time.

Service details are on our website at www.cichurchsingleton.org.au/events and on our Facebook page.