How can we ensure our celebrations honor God as instructed in Exodus 23:14?

The Command in Exodus 23:14

“Three times a year you are to celebrate a feast to Me.” (Exodus 23:14)

God does not simply permit celebration; He commands it. The feasts are “to Me”—centered on the LORD, not on human preferences or cultural trends.

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Why God Establishes Feasts

• Reminder of His saving acts (Exodus 12:14; Leviticus 23:43)

• Call to communal worship (Deuteronomy 16:16)

• Foreshadowing of Messiah’s work (Colossians 2:16-17)

• Regular rhythm of gratitude and joy (Psalm 95:1-2)

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Principles for God-Honoring Celebrations Today

• God-focused purpose

– Ask: Does this gathering explicitly exalt the LORD? (1 Corinthians 10:31)

• Biblical content

– Read Scripture aloud; sing lyrics grounded in truth (Colossians 3:16).

• Corporate participation

– Engage family and congregation, not isolated individuals (Hebrews 10:24-25).

• Grateful remembrance

– Testify to specific works of God, past and present (Psalm 105:1-2).

• Holiness and separation

– Reject elements that conflict with God’s character (2 Corinthians 6:17).

• Generosity toward others

– Share resources with the needy (Deuteronomy 16:11; Acts 2:45).

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Practical Applications for Families and Churches

• Mark annual salvation milestones (e.g., Passover-style meal during Passion Week).

• Plan worship services around God’s redemptive acts—Creation, Cross, Resurrection, Pentecost.

• Include Scripture readings that trace the theme of the feast.

• Give testimonies: “What has God done for us this year?”

• Serve a communal meal emphasizing fellowship over extravagance.

• Set aside an offering for missions or benevolence as part of the celebration.

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Guardrails to Keep Celebrations Pure

• Avoid syncretism—do not blend pagan symbols with holy observance (Exodus 34:15).

• Resist consumerism—keep focus on the Giver, not the gifts (Luke 12:15).

• Maintain moral purity—celebration is never a license for sin (1 Peter 1:15-16).

• Prepare hearts beforehand through prayer and confession (Psalm 24:3-4).

• Evaluate afterward: Did this feast magnify Christ and edify His body? (Ephesians 4:12).

When our celebrations are anchored in Scripture, centered on the Lord, and expressed in holiness, we fulfill the heart of Exodus 23:14—feasting “to Him,” and Him alone.