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 Sam Nadler |
Usually the Resurrection season and Passover season overlap, but this year Messiah’s resurrection will be observed by many on Sunday, March 23rd, though Passover does not begin until the evening of April 19. Through the third century most believers tied the Lord’s resurrection to the celebration of Passover. However, today the celebration of Easter is observed on the first Sunday after the full moon of the Spring equinox, and not in conjunction with Passover. |
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But why the change? As Christendom moved further and further away from its biblical foundation, it also moved further away from its Jewish roots and apostolic expression of faith. Yeshua’s divine credentials to be the Savior of the world were no longer based on Him being the true Jewish Messiah--who is seen in the Passover and other biblical festivals--but were now based increasingly on the authority of the Bishop of Rome, with the power of the State to enforce the rulings of the various church councils. Therefore, every few years we encounter an inconsistency in the calendar when believers will celebrate the Lord’s resurrection at Easter a month before the biblical observance of the Lord’s crucifixion and resurrection at Passover! Thus it appears we have Messiah resurrected a month before He is even put to death as the Lamb of God. Now this could be confusing! As believers began reading the Bible for themselves, they rediscovered their scriptural connection to their Jewish roots. They see that Passover contained the basis not only for the redemptive death of the Lamb, but also His resurrection life in the First Fruits celebrated during that same Passover week! It is encouraging to meet so many believers who are enjoying the added spiritual dimension of these festivals, including Passover, since they relate so directly to Messiah and New Covenant faith. And as it is said, "when the world gives you lemons--make lemonade!" So this spring season, we have both months of March and April to proclaim that our Passover Lamb has come. Please keep us in prayer as we will be presenting how Messiah fulfills the Passover, even as John declared to those who needed hear: “Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). Be sure to mark your calendars for our annual Passover Banquet that will be held on Friday evening, April 25, in Charlotte, and consider inviting a friend to celebrate Passover with you! For more information or to register, click here. Shalom and Happy Passover! Y |
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