✝️ Should We Celebrate the Feasts?
Beloved, we gather today to explore a topic that has sparked considerable debate: Should Christians celebrate Passover and other Old Testament feasts? Let us examine both perspectives through the lens of Scripture, asking the Holy Spirit for guidance in truth and understanding.
📜 1. The Argument Against Observing the Feasts
Many Christians argue that the feasts were a shadow of things to come and have been fulfilled in Christ. They emphasize that Jesus Himself is our Passover Lamb, whose sacrifice has completed what these feasts pointed toward.
"For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed." - 1 Corinthians 5:7
The feasts served as a foreshadowing, and now that the fulfillment is here, they say, we no longer need to keep them. Instead of an annual celebration, we live daily in the grace of Christ's ultimate sacrifice, observing communion as a new remembrance.
"These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ." - Colossians 2:16-17
Some further argue that because Jesus declared, “It is finished” on the cross, the observance of feasts was also brought to a close. They remind us that Paul taught we are no longer under the Law, but under grace. They caution that the focus should be on living under the new covenant, emphasizing faith in Christ and love for one another.
"For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law." - Romans 3:28
🔎 2. The Argument for Observing the Feasts
On the other hand, there are those who believe that observing the feasts brings richness to their walk with God. They argue that the feasts were never abolished and remain as holy convocations, as seen in the teachings of the early church. The Passover, for example, reminds them of God’s deliverance and is a powerful way to connect with Jesus’ role in salvation.
"This day shall be for you a memorial day, and you shall keep it as a feast to the Lord; throughout your generations, as a statute forever, you shall keep it as a feast." - Exodus 12:14
They point out that Jesus Himself celebrated the feasts, and by doing so, He left us an example to follow. Observing the feasts, they say, doesn’t undermine Christ’s sacrifice, but rather honors it. It allows believers to reflect deeply on the significance of His life and mission.
"Then came the day of Unleavened Bread, on which the Passover lamb had to be sacrificed. So Jesus sent Peter and John, saying, 'Go and prepare the Passover for us, that we may eat it.'" - Luke 22:7-8
Furthermore, some argue that as we await Jesus’ return, these feasts serve as reminders of God’s faithfulness and His promises to His people. They believe it’s a way of remembering that God’s plan is still unfolding, keeping believers rooted in biblical history and prophecy.
"Remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.'" - Isaiah 46:9-10
🙏 3. A Call to Respect Individual Conviction
In the end, beloved, whether or not we observe these feasts, let us remember the words of Paul: "Let each be fully convinced in his own mind." (Romans 14:5). The Apostle reminds us that while one may choose to observe certain days, another may not. It is vital to honor each other’s convictions and refrain from judgment, knowing that we all serve the same Lord. God alone knows the heart and the intention behind every action.
"So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God. Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister." - Romans 14:12-13
Let us, therefore, approach this subject with grace, understanding, and love. Whether we observe the feasts or not, we do so unto the Lord. Be cautious in judging others on this matter, as God does not judge as man does. He sees the heart and knows the intention behind each action.
"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." - Matthew 7:1-2
Our focus should always be on love and edification. Let us pursue righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit, for that is the Kingdom of God. Stand firm in your conviction, and let the love of Christ guide your actions, beloved, for in Him we are all one.
"Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another." - Romans 14:19