How does Exodus 12:1 connect to the concept of new beginnings in Christ? Setting the Stage for a Fresh Calendar “Now the LORD said to Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt” (Exodus 12:1). • This simple sentence opens the very chapter in which God resets Israel’s calendar (v. 2). • The switch from Egypt’s timetable to God’s marks a brand-new era: slavery is ending, redemption is beginning. • Every future date would now be measured from the moment God intervened—an echo of how life in Christ is forever dated “before” and “after” the cross. From Pharaoh’s Chains to Christ’s Freedom • Israel’s bondage in Exodus mirrors humanity’s bondage to sin (John 8:34). • Just as God initiated Israel’s liberation, He initiates ours in Christ: – Romans 5:8—“But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” • Both rescues begin with God speaking into darkness—Exodus 12:1 in Egypt, John 1:14 in Bethlehem. The Lamb Foreshadows the Son • Exodus 12 introduces the Passover lamb; John 1:29 reveals “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” • Key parallels: – Without blemish (Exodus 12:5; 1 Peter 1:19). – Slain at twilight (Exodus 12:6) as Christ died as evening approached (Luke 23:44-46). – No bones broken (Exodus 12:46; John 19:36). Marked by Blood, Passed Over by Judgment • Israel applied lamb’s blood to the doorposts (Exodus 12:7); believers are cleansed by Christ’s blood (Ephesians 1:7). • God’s judgment “passed over” houses under the blood; wrath passes over all who trust in Christ (Romans 8:1). A Calendar Reset and a New Creation • Exodus 12:2—“This month is to be the beginning of months for you.” • 2 Corinthians 5:17—“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” • Both verses affirm that when God saves, He also resets identity, purpose, and destiny. Living the Ongoing Celebration • Israel was to remember Passover yearly; believers remember Christ’s sacrifice in the Lord’s Supper (Luke 22:19-20). • 1 Corinthians 5:7-8 calls us to “keep the feast… with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth,” living daily in the purity Christ provides. Walking in Resurrection Newness • Romans 6:4—“Just as Christ was raised from the dead… so we too may walk in newness of life.” • Our calendars still track ordinary days, yet every day after meeting Jesus is counted within His resurrection life—echoing Israel’s fresh start from Exodus 12:1 onward. |
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