THE CELEBRATION OF THE PASSOVER

PROCLAMATION

“The Israelites who were present celebrated the Passover at that time and observed the Festival of Unleavened Bread for seven days.”  2 Chronicles 35:17 (NIV)

EXPLANATION

After consulting with the high priest, Josiah called all of the elders of Judah and Jerusalem together in the temple and read to them all of the words of The Book of Covenant.  Then he renewed the covenant with The Lord God, to keep His commands, statutes, and decrees, and he had all the people pledge to do likewise. (2 Chronicles 34:29-32)  Afterwards he had all the people celebrate the Passover in Jerusalem and observe the Festival of Unleavened Bread for seven days. (2 Chronicles 35:1-17)  This celebration was done exactly according to the law, and it was done at King Josiah’s expense from his personal possessions. (2 Chronicles 35:7)

APPLICATION

This is the week of the Jewish celebration of the Passover.  This celebration closely resembles the Christian observance of The Lord’s Supper or Holy Communion.  These celebrations are symbolic of the death of Christ, and they are symbols of a believer’s personal piety and devotion to Him. (1 Corinthians 11:26)  As Resurrection Sunday approaches and we celebrate the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ, we should each examine ourselves, and ask for forgiveness of our sins before we partake of this sacred ordinance.  It would not be wise to take this celebration lightly. (1 Corinthians 11:29-30)