Should a Christian celebrate the Passover?

Should a Christian celebrate the Passover?

The Jewish holiday of Passover commemorates the Exodus of the children of Israel from their slavery in Egypt. Moses commanded the people to choose a lamb, prepare it with bitter herbs and apply the blood to the doorposts and lintel of the doors of their houses. Those Egyptians who chose not to participate in this ceremony, lost their first born sons at midnight. Pharaoh then permitted the people of Israel to leave the country. Jewish homes still celebrate the Passover today with some changes to the original details of the meal as recorded in Exodus 11" TARGET="_blank">Exodus 11 and12.

The New Testament says that Christ is the fulfillment of the Passover event (1 Corinthians 5:7-8)" TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 5:7-8) and that Christians should recognize the spiritual significance of the feast of Unleavened Bread, which immediately precedes the Passover.

There are some Christians who not only see the spiritual lessons of Christ’s salvation prefigured in the Passover, they also wish to celebrate the Passover in all of its details. They say that the Passover is a cultural event. Continuing the supper allows Jewish believers to retain their cultural heritage and at the same time embrace Christ as their savior. A second reason for a Christian to celebrate the Passover is to use the event as an evangelism tool to explain the gospel to Jewish friends.

A Christian may choose not to celebrate the Passover based on the teaching of the Epistle of Hebrews. The whole point of the Book of Hebrews is that Christ is the fulfillment of the law. All Old Testament rituals were mere shadows of the coming Promised Messiah. We should leave all old practices now that they have become obsolete. Hebrews 13:10-13" TARGET="_blank">Hebrews 13:10-13

10 We have an altar, whereof they have no right to eat which serve the tabernacle.

11For the bodies of those beasts, whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the high priest for sin, are burned without the camp.

12Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate.

13Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach.

14For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come.

The “Last Supper” of the Lord Jesus and his disciples was a commemoration of the Passover of Moses. It was the last time to be practiced before Christ introduced the New Covenant. (Matthew 26:28)." TARGET="_blank">Matthew 26:28). The epistles never command us to remember the Passover, but to break bread remembering the death of Christ (1 Corinthians 11:23-34)." TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 11:23-34).

If a believer chooses to celebrate the Passover, he should be fully aware that there is no sanction for it in the Bible. However, it would be wrong for another believer to condemn him for doing so. Colossians 2:16-17" TARGET="_blank">Colossians 2:16-17 and Romans 14:5" TARGET="_blank">Romans 14:5 say that believers are free to conduct celebrations of Sabbaths and other holidays.

Shad David Sluiter

Other pages in this section

About this site

Can an overseer withdraw from the oversight?

Can an overseer withdraw from the oversight?

Genesis 2" TARGET="_blank">Genesis 2 and 3 indicate that God has invested us with the power to choose. He allows us to choose, whether our choice is right or wrong, and deals with us on the basis of our choices. A brother may therefore choose to withdraw from his responsibility as an overseer. Either the Lord entrusted him with that responsibility (Acts 20:28)" TARGET="_blank">Acts 20:28) or he assumed it himself. In either case, he will answer to his Lord for the state of the flock (Heb 13:17" TARGET="_blank">Heb 13:17b).

The Lord has promised to give sufficient spiritual strength (1Co 12:9)" TARGET="_blank">1Co 12:9) and physical endurance (1Ti 4:10," TARGET="_blank">1Ti 4:10, "the Preserver of all men," JND) for the work He entrusts. He intends to refine him by means of every trial (Heb 12:9-11)" TARGET="_blank">Heb 12:9-11) He allows. These truths seem to remove most reasons a man could give for withdrawing.

On the other hand, a man’s fellow elders may discern that he is discouraged because of his own failings, family or assembly difficulties, or disappointments regarding assembly practices or even principles. In this case, he needs care and encouragement from the other elders. Shepherds should shepherd shepherds.

D. Oliver
Other pages in this section

About this site

In what ways does the Spirit of God lead us?

In what ways does the Spirit of God lead us?

Since it identifies us as sons of God (Rom 8:14)," TARGET="_blank">Rom 8:14), being led by the Spirit of God should characterize our lives. Paul’s teaching assumes that all believers are led by the Spirit (Gal 5:18)." TARGET="_blank">Gal 5:18). The Spirit leads us both rationally (through our minds) and mystically (through an inexplicable awareness). The former needs to be emphasized and is more easily explained. If we are not willing for be led by the Spirit daily, we will not likely be sensitive to His leading in "special experiences."

The Spirit of God and the Word of God both reflect the same source and must agree. Generally, therefore, the Spirit leads through the clear directives of Scripture. Thankfully, He not only directs but also enables our walk (Gal 5:16-18)." TARGET="_blank">Gal 5:16-18).

The more we walk in the Spirit, the deeper will be our acquaintance with "the things of the Spirit of God" (1Co 2:10-16)." TARGET="_blank">1Co 2:10-16). As the Spirit unfolds to us the mind of God, we learn through the Word of God the principles by which God works. Increasingly, therefore, the principles of Scripture will guide us. Daily subjection of our will to the Scriptures cannot be distinguished from the leading of the Spirit in our lives. To more fully know the mind of God through His Word is a life-long challenge. The Spirit leads us rationally by enriching our minds with the practical knowledge of God. As we submit, He both directs us and enables us to please God.

One of the greatest difficulties in life is to be honest with ourselves. That is why the mystical leading of the Spirit is difficult to discuss. Too often we attribute our own preference to the leading of the Spirit. The Spirit of God superindends our circumstances and often directs us through them, but always in keeping with the Word of God.

Two verses in Psalm 25" TARGET="_blank">Psalm 25 instruct us in knowing God’s ways. Verse 12 emphasizes reverence for God, acting to please Him. Verse 10 points to meekness. The meek humbly submit to God and totally depend on Him. Who could boast about possessing these qualities? To hear a voice behind us "saying, This is the way, walk ye in it" (Isa 30:21)" TARGET="_blank">Isa 30:21) is always an evidence of God’s grace. Nevertheless, this is not something for which we need to beg God. He desires to lead us through His Word (rationally) and to prompt us as we are sensitive to His will (mystically). Self-consciousness and self-occupation will not produce this. In many ways, this is a sacred secret between the soul and God. We obey His written Word and, through the Spirit, He takes care of the rest.

D. Oliver
Other pages in this section

About this site

How long will the Spirit abide with believers?

How long will the Spirit abide with believers (John 14:16)" TARGET="_blank">John 14:16)?

Mr. Newberry’s margin points out that the literal meaning of "forever" (the Comforter "may abide with you for ever") is "to the age." Does this then imply that the Spirit’s relationship to believers in this age remains only until the kingdom age, similar to the servant’s relationship to Rebekah in Genesis 24" TARGET="_blank">Genesis 24?

The exact expression, "to the age" appears 28 times in the New Testament. These include 1 Peter 1:25" TARGET="_blank">1 Peter 1:25 ("the Word of the Lord endureth forever") and Hebrews 7:17, 21, 24," TARGET="_blank">Hebrews 7:17, 21, 24, 28 (relating to the Lord’s everlasting priesthood), neither of which are limited in duration. John 14:16" TARGET="_blank">John 14:16 is the last of 12 times John uses this expression. Every other time it has the full force of "forever." For instance, "they shall not perish to the age" (10:28, YLT) doesn’t endanger our eternal security. "Never thirst" (4:14), "live forever"(6:51, 58), "the Son abideth ever" (8:35), and "never see death" (8:51, 52) can’t suggest a future limit. Peter (13:8) wasn’t thinking of the Lord’s future service (Luke 12:37)" TARGET="_blank">Luke 12:37) when he said, "Thou shalt never wash my feet."

The Spirit’s relationship to believers in this age, the Bride, will never terminate.

D. Oliver
Other pages in this section

About this site

How can I consistently learn the truths of God's Word?

How can I consistently learn the truths of God's Word?

First, carefully read the text. To Timothy, Paul said, "Give attendance to reading" (1 Timothy 4:13)." TARGET="_blank">1 Timothy 4:13). Admittedly, this was public reading, but the principle applies. Again, "Consider what I say (AV), for the Lord will give thee understanding in all things" (2 Timothy 2:7," TARGET="_blank">2 Timothy 2:7, JND). The understanding will be from the Lord by the Holy Spirit, but not without careful mental application on our part. Second, meditate on the text (Joshua 1:8)." TARGET="_blank">Joshua 1:8). This was the constant exercise of the fruitful man in Psalm 1:2." TARGET="_blank">Psalm 1:2. Jeremiah spoke of finding God's words and eating them examination and assimilation (Jeremiah 15:16)." TARGET="_blank">Jeremiah 15:16). Third, have a prayerful spirit. Psalm 119," TARGET="_blank">Psalm 119, which celebrates the supreme delight of an Old Testament saint in God's Word, is saturated with prayer. As we listen to God speaking to us, we in turn speak to Him. Fourth, submit your will to God. The Lord Jesus said the secret to knowing doctrine was a willingness to do His will (John 7:17)." TARGET="_blank">John 7:17). Bible study that is merely technical is not enough. The secret of knowing more is to practice what we already know. Such techniques produce ready scribes like Ezra, who "prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach" (Ezra 7:10)." TARGET="_blank">Ezra 7:10).

D. Gilliland

Other pages in this section

About this site

What kind of person is suited for full-time evangelism?

What features would mark a person for this work?

Tracing the development of Saul of Tarsus provides a helpful profile. His spiritual life began with submission to the Lord: "Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?" (Acts 9:6)." TARGET="_blank">Acts 9:6). His baptism expressed this also. A first mark in his life was prayer (Acts 9:11)." TARGET="_blank">Acts 9:11). From the beginning, Saul had a consistent interest in gospel work (vv 20-22). He had experience with God, getting to know Him and His truth (Gal 1:11-12, 17)." TARGET="_blank">Gal 1:11-12, 17). The assembly was the center of his interests and gospel activities (Acts 9:26-29)," TARGET="_blank">Acts 9:26-29), although he spread the gospel in other places where no assembly existed (v 20). He had earned the confidence of more experienced workers, because Barnabas brought him to Antioch (11:25-26). Saul was able to work under the shadow of Barnabas (9:27; 11:30; 12:25; 13:2, 7) - and with others (13:1) - until God moved him to the fore (compare 13:43, 46, 50; 14:12, 15; 2, 12, 22, 25, 35). This fosters continuity of testimony from one generation to the next (2Ti 2:2)." TARGET="_blank">2Ti 2:2).

Because preaching the Word is deacon service, the qualifications Paul outlined for deacons also apply to those commended by an assembly. As to their character, they have dignity (ESV for "grave"), honesty, and self-control (1Ti 3:8)." TARGET="_blank">1Ti 3:8). As to the truth, they have convictions and are consistent with it (v 9). As to their work, they have experience by which they have gained the confidence of others (vv 10, 13). As to their family life, they are commendable (vv 11-12).

D. Oliver
Other pages in this section

About this site

Is there such a person as an ex-Christian?

Be the first to give an answer to this question. Write an answer in the comment section below. Please provide your name and if you have a website or blog, be sure to include the URL and email address in your answer.

Answers will be reviewed.

Other pages in this section

About this site

How is a believer

How is a believer’s spiritual gift developed?

Enrolling in the right school is essential to developing spiritual gift. The only accredited school is the school of God. All classes are integrated into the local assembly, although many involve private tutoring. 1 Corinthians 12:7," TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 12:7, while speaking of spiritual gifts, refers to "the manifestation of the Spirit." A believer’s gift is not only the result of what the Spirit of God gives at conversion, but of what the Spirit of God does in the life. As a believer yields to the Spirit, increasing evidence of His work will be manifested or "appear" (related word in 1 Timothy 4:15)." TARGET="_blank">1 Timothy 4:15). Before Paul encourages Timothy to develop his gift by using it (1 Timothy 4:14)," TARGET="_blank">1 Timothy 4:14), he first emphasizes exemplary living (verse 12) and training in godliness (verse 7).

Development of gift is a two sided responsibility, the assembly’s and the individual’s. The assembly is God’s training ground; elders look for and encourage the Spirit’s manifestation in a believer’s life. For example, they lead in gospel outreach, involving younger, exercised believers in teaching children, either in the Sunday School or in assembly children’s work in locations apart from the assembly’s building. Barnabas’ relationship with Paul illustrates this (Acts 11:25" TARGET="_blank">Acts 11:25 - 15:35).

Whether or not others fulfill their responsibility, the believer is responsible before the Lord to fulfill his. Without asserting himself, he can wait on God, diligently do what the Lord gives him to do, pray for a deeper burden for those within his care, apply himself to the Word of God so as to serve effectively, and humbly submit to God’s dealings in his life.

D. Oliver
Other pages in this section

About this site

How should a woman respond to a husband's immoral beharvior?

For an assembly couple, what is a wife's responsibility when she knows her husband's behavior has adversely affected the assembly's testimony?

Such behavior requires correction. If mentioned in 1 Corinthians 5" TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 5: fornication, covetousness, idolatry, railing, drunkenness or extortion, the sin requires her husband to be put away from the fellowship. Loyalty or love for her husband must not interfere. If the wife has clear proof of his wrong behavior and fails to make it known to the elders, she becomes an accessory. Consider Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5" TARGET="_blank">Acts 5: By urging her husband to confess the matter, she promotes an easier solution than going to the brethren herself. If he will not do so, her higher duty is to her Lord. "We ought to obey God rather than men" (Acts 5:29)." TARGET="_blank">Acts 5:29).

If it is a lesser matter, such as unbecoming speech or business practices, she need not act condescendingly when she encourages him to repent and make things right with those affected.

J. Slabaugh

Other pages in this section

About this site

Is the Spirit of God equal to the Father and the Son?

Is the Spirit of God equal to the Father and the Son?

Called "the Lord, the Spirit" (2 Corinthians 3:18," TARGET="_blank">2 Corinthians 3:18, JND), lying to Him and to God are equivalent (Acts 5:3, 4)." TARGET="_blank">Acts 5:3, 4). He is equated with God in the creation (Genesis 1:2; 2:2)," TARGET="_blank">Genesis 1:2; 2:2), incarnation (Luke 1:35;" TARGET="_blank">Luke 1:35; Galatians 4:4)," TARGET="_blank">Galatians 4:4), anointing (Acts 10:38)," TARGET="_blank">Acts 10:38), miracles (Matthew 12:28;" TARGET="_blank">Matthew 12:28; Luke 11:20)," TARGET="_blank">Luke 11:20), crucifixion (Hebrews 9:14)," TARGET="_blank">Hebrews 9:14), resurrection (Acts 3:15;" TARGET="_blank">Acts 3:15; 1 Peter 3:18)," TARGET="_blank">1 Peter 3:18), saints' resurrection (Romans 8:11;" TARGET="_blank">Romans 8:11;1 Corinthians 15:38," TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 15:38, and operation of gifts (1 Corinthians 12:6, 11)." TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 12:6, 11).

The Lord equates the Spirit's deity with His own by saying, "another (of the same kind) Comforter" (John 14:16)." TARGET="_blank">John 14:16). In 1 Corinthians 12" TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 12-4-6 the Spirit, the Lord and God are parallel (see also Matthew 28:29;" TARGET="_blank">Matthew 28:29; 2 Corinthians 13:14;" TARGET="_blank">2 Corinthians 13:14; 1 Peter 1:2;" TARGET="_blank">1 Peter 1:2; Jude 21)." TARGET="_blank">Jude 21). hi the same chapter, He "wills" (verse 11), as does God Games 1:18). His omnipresence and God's are equivalent (Psalm 139:7)." TARGET="_blank">Psalm 139:7). He is omniscient (1 Corinthians 2:11)" TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 2:11) and omnipotent (Romans 8:11;" TARGET="_blank">Romans 8:11; Matthew 22:29)." TARGET="_blank">Matthew 22:29).

He wills (John 3:8)," TARGET="_blank">John 3:8), knows (1 Corinthians 2:11)," TARGET="_blank">1 Corinthians 2:11), acts (Acts 16:7)," TARGET="_blank">Acts 16:7), speaks (1 Timothy 4:1)," TARGET="_blank">1 Timothy 4:1), and feels (Ephesians 4:30)." TARGET="_blank">Ephesians 4:30). He is a distinct person, though equal with the Father and Son. When the Son stood at Jordan, the Spirit descended, and the Father spoke from heaven, this distinction was visible (Matthew 3:16, 17," TARGET="_blank">Matthew 3:16, 17, paralleling the Old Testament revelation in Isaiah 42:1)." TARGET="_blank">Isaiah 42:1).

D. Oliver

Other pages in this section

About this site

Main Menu