What connections exist between Numbers 9:2 and Jesus as our Passover Lamb? Setting the Scene Numbers 9 centers on Israel’s first anniversary of redemption from Egypt. In the wilderness, the LORD renews His instruction for the Passover. Numbers 9:2—God’s Clear Instruction “Let the Israelites observe the Passover at its appointed time.” What follows is a reminder that every family must keep the feast exactly as God prescribed (9:3-5). Echoes in Jesus, Our Passover Lamb 1 Corinthians 5:7 flatly states, “For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.” Every element of Numbers 9:2 anticipates Him. Key Connections • Appointed Time – Numbers 9:2 stresses an exact “appointed time.” – John 13:1; 17:1 note that Jesus’ “hour had come.” – He was crucified on Passover (John 19:14), perfectly meeting the divine schedule. • Divine Initiative – In Numbers the command originates with God, not the people. – Likewise, Acts 2:23 shows Jesus’ death came by God’s “deliberate plan and foreknowledge.” • Covenant Remembrance – Passover memorialized deliverance from slavery (Exodus 12:14). – The Lord’s Supper memorializes the cross, where the greater deliverance from sin was won (Luke 22:19-20). • Unblemished Sacrifice – Exodus 12:5 required a lamb “without blemish.” – Jesus is “a lamb without blemish or spot” (1 Peter 1:19). • Corporate Participation – “The Israelites are to observe…”—the whole nation was involved. – Salvation in Christ is offered to all who believe (John 3:16), forming one redeemed people (Ephesians 2:14-16). • Substitutionary Protection – Blood on the doorposts spared Israel’s firstborn (Exodus 12:7, 13). – Jesus’ blood shields believers from the wrath of God (Romans 5:9). • Journey Provision – Passover happened while Israel was on the move; obedience came before entering Canaan. – Believers are pilgrims (1 Peter 2:11). Feeding on Christ sustains us until we reach our eternal home (John 6:53-58). Closing Reflections Numbers 9:2 commands Israel to remember redemption through an appointed, God-given feast. The same God appointed His own Son to be the final Passover Lamb, securing eternal salvation for everyone who places faith in Him. |
    |