Numbers 9:3

You are to observe it at the appointed time, at twilight on the fourteenth day of this month, in accordance with its statutes and ordinances."

Study Bible

You are to observe it
This phrase emphasizes the commandment given to the Israelites to keep the Passover. The Hebrew root for "observe" is "שָׁמַר" (shamar), which means to keep, guard, or preserve. This implies a diligent and careful adherence to God's instructions. Historically, the Passover was a pivotal event for the Israelites, marking their deliverance from Egyptian bondage. Observing it was not merely a ritual but a remembrance of God's mighty acts and faithfulness. In a broader spiritual sense, this calls believers to faithfully remember and honor God's works in their lives.

at its appointed time
The phrase underscores the importance of timing in God's commandments. The Hebrew word for "appointed time" is "מוֹעֵד" (moed), which refers to a fixed time or season. This indicates that God has specific times for His people to engage in acts of worship and remembrance. The Passover was to be celebrated on the 14th day of the first month, as established in Exodus 12. This precision reflects God's order and sovereignty, reminding believers that His plans and purposes are perfectly timed.

at twilight
This phrase specifies the time of day for the Passover sacrifice. The Hebrew term "בֵּין הָעַרְבָּיִם" (bein ha'arbayim) translates to "between the evenings" or "twilight." This time was significant as it marked the transition from day to night, symbolizing the Israelites' transition from slavery to freedom. Theologically, twilight can represent the liminal space where God intervenes in human history, a time of divine action and change.

on the fourteenth day of this month
This phrase provides a specific date for the observance of Passover. The "fourteenth day" of the first month, Nisan, was divinely appointed. This specificity highlights the importance of obedience to God's timing. Historically, this date commemorates the night the Israelites were spared from the plague of the firstborn in Egypt. For Christians, it foreshadows the sacrifice of Christ, the Lamb of God, whose death and resurrection are central to the faith.

in accordance with all its statutes and ordinances
This phrase emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the command. The Hebrew words "חֻקָּה" (chuqqah) and "מִשְׁפָּט" (mishpat) refer to statutes and ordinances, respectively. "Chuqqah" implies a decree or law that is to be followed, while "mishpat" refers to judgments or legal decisions. Together, they indicate that the Passover was to be observed with strict adherence to God's detailed instructions. This reflects the broader biblical principle that God's laws are to be followed fully and faithfully, underscoring the importance of obedience in the life of a believer.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the laws and instructions from God, including those concerning the Passover.

2. Israelites
The people of God who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and were commanded to observe the Passover as a perpetual ordinance.

3. Passover
A significant event and feast commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt, marked by the sacrifice of a lamb and the application of its blood on the doorposts.

4. Twilight
The specific time of day when the Passover lamb was to be sacrificed, symbolizing the transition from slavery to freedom.

5. Wilderness of Sinai
The location where the Israelites received the law and instructions for observing the Passover.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites were instructed to observe the Passover "in accordance with all its statutes and ordinances." This highlights the importance of obedience to God's specific instructions in our lives.

Significance of Timing
The Passover was to be observed "at its appointed time," teaching us the importance of God's timing in our spiritual practices and life events.

Symbolism of the Passover
The Passover foreshadows Christ's sacrifice. Understanding this connection deepens our appreciation for the continuity of God's redemptive plan.

Community Observance
The Passover was a communal event, reminding us of the importance of gathering together as a faith community to remember and celebrate God's deliverance.

Spiritual Preparation
Just as the Israelites prepared for the Passover, we are called to prepare our hearts and lives for worship and remembrance of Christ's sacrifice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command to observe the Passover "at its appointed time" challenge us to prioritize God's timing in our lives?

2. In what ways does the Passover serve as a foreshadowing of Christ's sacrifice, and how can this understanding impact our faith?

3. What are some practical ways we can ensure obedience to God's commands in our daily lives, as the Israelites were instructed to do?

4. How can we foster a sense of community and shared faith experience in our church or small group, similar to the communal observance of the Passover?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to prepare spiritually for an event or decision. How can the preparation for Passover inform your approach to spiritual readiness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
Provides the original instructions for the Passover, detailing the significance of the lamb and the blood as a sign of protection and deliverance.

Leviticus 23
Lists the appointed feasts of the Lord, including the Passover, emphasizing its importance as a holy convocation.

1 Corinthians 5:7
Paul refers to Christ as our Passover lamb, drawing a parallel between the Old Testament Passover and the sacrifice of Jesus.

Hebrews 9:22
Discusses the necessity of blood for atonement, connecting the Passover sacrifice to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

John 1:29
John the Baptist identifies Jesus as the Lamb of God, linking the Passover lamb to Jesus' role in salvation.