What is the meaning of Leviticus 23:2? Speak to the Israelites God begins by telling Moses to address the covenant people directly. He is not suggesting or negotiating; He is issuing a royal decree. • Exodus 19:3-6 shows the same pattern: God speaks, Moses repeats, the nation listens. • Numbers 15:37-41 reminds Israel that every command is for their good and His glory. The personal approach underscores accountability—each Israelite must hear and respond. and say to them The phrase stresses faithful transmission. Moses must pass on God’s exact words, not opinions. • Deuteronomy 4:1-2 warns against adding or subtracting from the commands. • Joshua 1:8 echoes the call to keep the word on the lips and in the heart. By “saying,” Moses models verbal discipleship: truth spoken aloud cultivates memory and obedience. These are My appointed feasts The calendar Israel is about to receive is not man-made; it is God’s schedule. • Exodus 12:14 identifies Passover as “a memorial … for all generations.” • Psalm 104:19 celebrates that God “appointed the moon for seasons.” The word “appointed” indicates fixed times set by divine authority. Observing them affirms that all time belongs to the Lord. the feasts of the LORD These gatherings revolve around the Lord Himself, not merely cultural tradition. • Deuteronomy 16:16 lists the pilgrimage feasts where every male “shall appear before the LORD.” • John 5:1-2 shows Jesus attending these feasts, confirming their lasting significance. By calling them “of the LORD,” God declares ownership; He is both host and centerpiece. that you are to proclaim Israel must publicly announce and celebrate each feast, turning private faith into collective witness. • Psalm 145:4 says, “One generation shall declare Your works to the next.” • Acts 2:1-11 takes place during Pentecost, a proclaimed feast that draws the nations to hear the gospel. Proclamation ensures the story of redemption is heard far beyond Israel. as sacred assemblies The gatherings are holy convocations where worshipers meet God together. • Leviticus 8:4 shows Moses assembling the congregation for consecration. • Hebrews 10:24-25 urges believers not to forsake assembling, grounding the practice in Old Testament precedent. “Sacred” signals separation from ordinary pursuits; “assembly” highlights unity. Together, these feasts foreshadow the ultimate gathering around the Lamb in Revelation 7:9-10. summary Leviticus 23:2 unfolds a divine invitation and command: God directs Moses to speak His exact words to Israel, marking out fixed, God-owned feast days that must be publicly proclaimed and shared as holy gatherings. By obeying, Israel aligns its calendar, community, and worship with the Lord’s redemptive timetable, bearing witness to His sovereignty over time and salvation for every generation. |
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