“And ye shall count unto you from the morrow after the sabbath, from the day that ye brought the sheaf of the wave offering; seven sabbaths shall be complete.”
Context:Leviticus 23 is a chapter that outlines the appointed feasts or festivals that God commanded the Israelites to observe. These festivals were significant times of worship and commemoration for the Israelites, and they held both historical and prophetic significance.
The Feast of Weeks (Pentecost):Leviticus 23:15 introduces the Feast of Weeks, which is also known as Pentecost. This feast was observed fifty days after the offering of the sheaf of the firstfruits during the Feast of Unleavened Bread.
Counting the Omer:The instruction in this verse is to count seven sabbaths from the day the sheaf of the wave offering was presented. This counting period, known as the “Counting of the Omer,” began on the day after the Sabbath following the Feast of Unleavened Bread.
Spiritual Significance:The Counting of the Omer served as a preparation period for the Feast of Weeks. It was a time of anticipation and reflection, leading up to the giving of the Law to Moses on Mount Sinai. The Israelites were to use this time to purify themselves and draw closer to God.
Prophetic Fulfillment:The Feast of Weeks, or Pentecost, holds significant prophetic fulfillment in the New Testament. In Acts 2:1-4, on the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit was poured out upon the early disciples in Jerusalem, empowering them for ministry. This event marked the birth of the Church and the beginning of the new covenant era.
Application for Christians:While the original observance of the Feast of Weeks was specific to the Israelites, Christians can draw spiritual lessons from it. The counting period leading up to Pentecost reminds us of the importance of spiritual preparation and expectancy. Just as the early disciples experienced the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost, we can seek the infilling and empowering of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
Reflection on God’s Timing:The instructions to count the seven sabbaths before the Feast of Weeks also remind us of the significance of God’s timing. God appointed specific times and seasons for the observance of these feasts, which points to His sovereignty and divine order. It encourages us to trust in God’s timing in our own lives, knowing that He has a perfect plan and purpose for each season.
In summary, Leviticus 23:15 introduces the Feast of Weeks and instructs the Israelites to count seven sabbaths to prepare for it. While the original observance had its historical and prophetic significance, Christians can draw spiritual lessons from it, such as the importance of preparation, expectancy, and trust in God’s timing. The fulfilment of Pentecost in the New Testament demonstrates the ongoing relevance and significance of these feasts in the broader redemptive plan of God.
