“Let the children of Israel also keep the passover at his appointed season.”
Context:The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and it provides an account of the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. This verse occurs during the second year of their journey when they were encamped at Mount Sinai. The verse focuses on the observance of the Passover, which was a significant annual feast for the Israelites.
The Passover:The Passover was a commemorative feast instituted by God in Exodus 1It was a reminder of the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt and God’s protection over them. The Passover lamb was sacrificed, and its blood was applied to the doorposts of their homes, so that the Lord would “pass over” their households when He struck down the firstborn in Egypt. The Passover meal included unleavened bread and bitter herbs.
Appointed season:The phrase “at his appointed season” emphasizes the importance of observing the Passover at the specific time designated by God. The Israelites were commanded to keep the Passover on the fourteenth day of the first month (Exodus 12:6). This demonstrates God’s sovereignty and His desire for His people to follow His prescribed timing and instructions.
Obedience and faithfulness:The verse emphasizes the importance of the children of Israel obeying God’s commandments. The Passover was a crucial part of their religious and cultural identity, and their faithful observance of it demonstrated their obedience to God. It was an act of worship and remembrance of God’s faithfulness and deliverance.
Application:Although the specific observance of the Passover is not required for Christians today, there are lessons we can draw from Numbers 9:2. Firstly, it reminds us of the significance of obedience and faithfulness to God’s commands. As believers, we are called to follow God’s instructions and honor His appointed times in our lives. Secondly, it encourages us to remember God’s faithfulness and deliverance in our own lives. Just as the Passover was a memorial for the Israelites, we should regularly reflect on God’s grace and provision.
In summary, Numbers 9:2 emphasizes the importance of the children of Israel observing the Passover at the appointed time designated by God. It highlights the significance of obedience, faithfulness, and remembrance of God’s deliverance. While the specific context of the verse pertains to the Israelites in the wilderness, we can draw valuable lessons from it for our own spiritual journey today.
