“And ye shall observe this thing for an ordinance to thee and to thy sons forever.”
Historical Context: The book of Exodus recounts the story of the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt under the leadership of Moses. Exodus 12 is a significant chapter that describes the institution of the Passover, which commemorates God’s sparing of the Israelites’ firstborns during the final plague in Egypt.
Observing the Passover: In Exodus 12:24, God instructs the Israelites to observe the Passover as an ordinance for themselves and their future generations. The Passover was to be a perpetual commemoration, serving as a reminder of God’s deliverance and faithfulness.
Importance of Remembering: God’s command to observe the Passover highlights the significance of remembering and passing down the stories of God’s acts of deliverance and redemption. The Israelites were to keep the memory of their deliverance alive and ensure that future generations would also remember and understand God’s faithfulness.
A Covenantal Relationship: The observance of the Passover served as a reminder of the covenantal relationship between God and His people. By participating in the Passover, the Israelites affirmed their identity as God’s chosen people and acknowledged their dependence on Him for deliverance and protection.
Eternal Significance: The phrase “forever” in Exodus 12:24 emphasizes the everlasting nature of the ordinance. The observance of the Passover was not intended to be temporary or limited to a specific period. It was a perpetual reminder for generations to come, emphasizing the enduring nature of God’s deliverance and faithfulness.
Application for Christians: While the Passover is primarily associated with the Old Testament and the Israelites, Christians can also draw spiritual lessons from this passage. The New Testament presents Jesus Christ as the ultimate Passover Lamb whose sacrifice delivers humanity from the bondage of sin. As believers, we are called to remember and commemorate the sacrifice of Jesus through the Lord’s Supper (Communion) as a perpetual ordinance (1 Corinthians 11:23-26).
In summary, Exodus 12:24 highlights the importance of observing the Passover as a perpetual ordinance to remember God’s deliverance and faithfulness. It emphasizes the enduring nature of God’s covenantal relationship with His people and serves as a reminder for future generations. For Christians, it also points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ and the commemoration of His sacrifice through the Lord’s Supper.
