“Speak ye unto all the congregation of Israel, saying, In the tenth day of this month they shall take to them every man a lamb, according to the house of their fathers, a lamb for an house.”
Historical Context:Exodus is the second book of the Bible and describes the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt. This verse takes place just before the final plague, the death of the firstborn, which leads to the Pharaoh allowing the Israelites to leave Egypt.
Significance of the Tenth Day: God instructed Moses to tell the Israelites to select a lamb on the tenth day of the month. This marked the beginning of a significant preparation period before the Passover. The tenth day was crucial because it gave the Israelites time to inspect the lamb for any blemishes or defects, ensuring that only a perfect lamb would be sacrificed.
The Selection of the Lamb: Every household in Israel was commanded to take a lamb. The lamb was to be chosen according to the “house of their fathers,” meaning each family was responsible for selecting their own lamb. This indicates a personal and individual responsibility in the act of sacrifice.
Symbolism and Foreshadowing: The selection and sacrifice of the lamb in Exodus 12:3 foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as the “Lamb of God” in the New Testament. Just as the Israelites applied the blood of the lamb to their doorposts for protection from the final plague, so too believers in Christ apply His blood for salvation from sin and eternal separation from God.
Personal Reflection: In Exodus 12:3, we see the importance of preparation and the individual’s responsibility in approaching God. It reminds us that we are called to examine ourselves and present our lives as a living sacrifice to God (Romans 12:1). Just as the Israelites were to select a spotless lamb, we are called to offer our lives without blemish, surrendering to God’s will and seeking His forgiveness.
Overall, Exodus 12:3 sets the stage for the institution of the Passover, which became a significant festival for the Israelites. It also points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who became the Lamb that takes away the sins of the world. As believers, we can find encouragement and inspiration in understanding the foreshadowing of Jesus’ sacrifice and the personal responsibility we have in our relationship with God.
