Why did God, in the Old Testament, forbid people with physical disabilities from serving at His altar?
QUESTION:
Why did God, in the Old Testament, forbid people with physical disabilities from serving at His altar? If God shows no favoritism, why did He give such a command?
Leviticus 21:16–24 explains that anyone from the priestly line of Aaron who had a physical defect—such as blindness, lameness, deformities, or skin conditions—was not allowed to approach the altar or offer sacrifices, although they could still partake in the sacred offerings.
ANSWER:
The Old Testament served as a physical representation or shadow of the spiritual realities that would be revealed later through the New Covenant (Colossians 2:17). The ceremonial laws and practices of the Old Testament, including dietary laws, festivals, and Sabbaths, were not the ultimate reality but rather a foreshadowing of something greater. This concept is echoed in Hebrews 10:1, where the law is described as a shadow of the good things to come, not the realities themselves.
Because the Old Covenant was physical, many of its laws and instructions were meant to help people understand deeper spiritual truths. These physical examples made it easier for people to grasp the spiritual meanings that would later be revealed in Christ. However, those physical laws weren’t God’s final or complete plan.
Think of it like teaching a child math. You don’t just tell them “1 + 3 = 4.” Instead, you give them sticks to count. You give them one stick, then three more, and help them count to four. At that stage, they think math is about sticks. But as they grow, they realize that the sticks were just tools to help them understand the concept. Real math is in the mind, not in the sticks.
In the same way, when God first began revealing His plan, He used physical laws to teach spiritual truths. For example, Israelites were forbidden to eat pigs—not because pigs are dirty, but because pigs don’t chew the cud. Spiritually, this was a symbol. Animals that chew the cud (like cows) bring up what they’ve eaten, chew it again, and swallow it. Spiritually, this symbolizes remembering and meditating on what God has done or taught us. People who don’t reflect like this are like pigs—they forget God’s past faithfulness.
The Israelites showed this kind of spiritual “uncleanness” after crossing the Red Sea. They quickly forgot God’s miracles and complained about food. But David, when facing Goliath, remembered how God had saved him from lions and bears. That gave him faith and strength. He “chewed the cud,” spiritually speaking—he reflected on God’s faithfulness.
Now let’s go back to the question about physical disabilities and the altar.
Only Levites—the descendants of the tribe of Levi—were allowed to serve in the temple. No one from any other tribe, no matter how devoted or gifted, could serve. Even among the Levites, if someone had a physical defect, they were not allowed to offer sacrifices. So it wasn’t just people with disabilities who were restricted—many others were as well.
Why did God do this?
Because He was painting a spiritual picture: those who serve at His altar should be spiritually whole—without defect in heart or character. God wasn’t rejecting people with physical disabilities; He was using this as a symbol to teach that His servants must be spiritually mature and pure.
That’s why, when we move into the New Testament, we see Jesus welcoming the blind, the lame, and the sick. He heals them, dines with them, and loves them (Mark 14:3). God isn’t concerned with physical limitations—He’s concerned with the heart. A spiritually broken or defiled heart is what makes someone unclean before Him.
Have you found healing for the spiritual “leprosy” or “widowhood” within you?
(These are symbols of spiritual separation or uncleanness.)
There are many people with physical disabilities whom God has allowed to remain that way for a reason. Some serve God in powerful ways—healing others, sharing the gospel, and performing miracles. You might wonder, “Why doesn’t God heal them?” But remember: God’s thoughts are not like ours. For example, the prophet Elisha died from an illness, but his bones still brought a dead man back to life!
Check out this testimony:
>>> Testimony of Ricky (a reference to an inspiring story of someone serving God powerfully despite disability)
All of this teaches us that today, in God’s eyes, there is no male or female, no slave or free, no able-bodied or disabled—we are all priests through Jesus Christ. His sacrifice gives all believers access to God’s presence.
Hallelujah! His love for us is beyond words.
Shalom.
Please share this message with others—it’s good news for all.
SHED YOUR BLOOD FOR THE LORD
“I greet you in the glorious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Welcome again as we meditate on the words of life.”
FOUR STAGES OF JESUS’ CALLING TO HIS FOLLOWERS
Jesus Christ, during His earthly ministry, extended different types of callings to His followers, each with increasing commitment and responsibility.
1. The General Call (Call to Follow)
This is the initial invitation, where Jesus invites individuals to follow Him—often without precondition. It reflects prevenient grace, where Christ meets the sinner before transformation.
John 1:43, ESV
“The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, ‘Follow me.’”
2. The Call to Discipleship (Costly Following)
Jesus later makes it clear that following Him has a cost. True discipleship involves self-denial, bearing the cross, and total surrender.
Luke 14:26, ESV
“If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children… yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple.”
Luke 14:27, ESV
“Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.”
3. The Apostolic Call (Commissioning the Twelve)
Among many disciples, Jesus chose twelve apostles to send out. This is a formal commissioning into leadership and mission.
Luke 6:13, ESV
“And when day came, he called his disciples and chose from them twelve, whom he named apostles.”
4. The Call to Be Witnesses (Martyria)
Just before His ascension, Christ called His apostles to be His witnesses. The Greek word “martys” means “witness,” but it’s also the root for “martyr”—signifying those who testify unto death.
Acts 1:8, ESV
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem… and to the end of the earth.”
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A WITNESS?
To be a true witness (martys) is not merely to speak of Christ but to bear testimony through suffering, sacrifice, or even death. This aligns with Paul’s theology of participating in Christ’s sufferings:
Philippians 3:10, ESV
“…that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death.”
Witnesses identify with Christ not only in His resurrection but in His cross.
FOUR CATEGORIES OF CHRIST’S WITNESSES
1. Witnesses Who Suffer Physically or Die for the Gospel (Martyrs)
These are Christians who are persecuted, imprisoned, beaten, or martyred for their faith.
2 Corinthians 11:23–25, ESV
“Are they servants of Christ? … with far greater labors, far more imprisonments, with countless beatings, and often near death.”
Paul’s account represents both literal suffering and spiritual authority, reminding us that the cost of authentic faith is often high.
Modern examples include believers in persecuted countries who endure torture or death for their faith. Their blood bears witness to Christ.
2. Witnesses Who Risk Their Lives or Comfort for the Gospel
These are believers who willingly endanger or inconvenience themselves—giving sacrificially of time, money, energy, and position for the sake of the Kingdom.
Example: David’s Mighty Men
2 Samuel 23:16–17, ESV
“Then the three mighty men… broke through the camp of the Philistines and drew water… and brought it to David. But he would not drink of it. He poured it out to the LORD and said, ‘Far be it from me, O LORD, that I should do this. Shall I drink the blood of the men who went at the risk of their lives?’”
David recognized that their sacrifice equated to blood. Likewise, our voluntary sacrifices for Christ are seen by God as poured-out offerings.
Example: The Poor Widow’s Offering
Luke 21:3–4, ESV
“Truly, I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them. For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.”
This teaches us that true witness isn’t measured by the size of the gift but by the cost to the giver.
3. Witnesses Who Remove Sources of Sin for Christ’s Sake
These are believers who are willing to cut off people, habits, or things that hinder their walk with God.
Mark 9:43, ESV
“And if your hand causes you to sin, cut it off… it is better for you to enter life crippled than with two hands to go to hell…”
Example: King Asa
Asa removed his own mother from royal power because she promoted idolatry.
1 Kings 15:13, ESV
“He also removed Maacah his mother from being queen mother because she had made an abominable image for Asherah.”
This shows radical allegiance to God—even over family.
Christ calls us to love Him more than our families, jobs, or ambitions (Matthew 10:37). The emotional pain of such severing is, metaphorically, the shedding of blood.
4. Witnesses Who Mourn and Intercede for the Church
These are the hidden heroes: intercessors who groan in prayer, fast, and labor spiritually for the Church and for souls.
Example: Christ at Gethsemane
Luke 22:44, ESV
“And being in agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.”
Example: The Prophetess Anna
Luke 2:37, ESV
“She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day.”
These prayer warriors are unseen but honored by heaven. Their tears, like blood, cry out on behalf of others (cf. Revelation 5:8).
SELF-EXAMINATION: WHERE DO YOU STAND?
Paul writes:
1 Corinthians 15:31, ESV
“I die every day!”
This is not literal death, but a spiritual death to self—daily choosing the cross over comfort.
So ask yourself:
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Are you dying daily for Christ?
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Are you sacrificing anything significant?
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Are you living as a true witness?
FINAL ENCOURAGEMENT
Revelation 2:10, ESV
“Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.”
Let us be counted among the faithful witnesses—those who did not love their lives even unto death (Revelation 12:11). Whether your witness is visible through suffering or hidden in intercession, your reward is certain.
The 13 Months of the Jewish Calendar
Unlike the Gregorian calendar (the one commonly used today), which consists of 12 months, the Jewish calendar operates on a lunar cycle and adds a 13th month in certain years. This occurs every seven years within a 19-year cycle. In seven of these years, there are 13 months, while in the remaining twelve years, there are only 12 months. The years with 13 months are the 3rd, 6th, 8th, 11th, 14th, 17th, and 19th of the 19-year cycle. Once this cycle ends and a new one begins, the same pattern is followed, with some years having 12 months and others 13.
The 13th month, known as Adar II, is added in those years to keep the Jewish festivals aligned with the correct seasons. Without this adjustment, important festivals such as Passover could fall in the wrong season. Passover, for instance, must always be celebrated in the spring. Now, let’s explore the 12 regular months of the Jewish calendar, with their biblical references, and understand the significance of each.
Month 1: Abib or Nisan
Abib (or Nisan) is the first month in the Jewish calendar, corresponding roughly to March-April in the Gregorian calendar. This month marks the Exodus of the Israelites from Egypt, a pivotal event in Jewish history.
Exodus 13:3: “Moses said to the people, ‘Remember this day, on which you went out from Egypt, from the house of bondage, for by strength of hand the Lord brought you out of this place. No leavened bread shall be eaten.'”
Esther 3:7: “In the first month, which is the month of Nisan, in the twelfth year of King Ahasuerus, they cast Pur—that is, the lot—before Haman to determine the day and the month, the twelfth month, which is the month of Adar.”
Nehemiah 2:1
: “In the month of Nisan, in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when wine was before him, I took the wine and gave it to the king.”
Month 2: Ziv or Iyar
This is the second month of the Jewish calendar, falling between April-May in the Gregorian calendar. It was in this month that King Solomon began constructing the Temple of God in Jerusalem.
1 Kings 6:1: “And it came to pass, in the four hundred and eightieth year after the children of Israel had come out of Egypt, in the fourth year of Solomon’s reign, in the month of Ziv, which is the second month, that he began to build the house of the Lord.”
Month 3: Sivan
The third month of the Jewish calendar falls between May and June in the Gregorian calendar. This is when the Israelites received the Law at Mount Sinai.
Esther 8:9: “In the third month, the month of Sivan, on the twenty-third day, the king’s scribes were summoned. According to Mordecai’s instructions, the Jews were to be written to in every province of King Xerxes’ empire.”
Month 4: Tammuz
This is the fourth month in the Jewish calendar, corresponding to June-July. The month is notably mentioned in Ezekiel’s vision where he saw women weeping for Tammuz, a pagan deity.
Ezekiel 8:14: “Then He brought me to the entrance of the north gate of the Lord’s house, and there, at the entrance, were women sitting and weeping for Tammuz.”
Month 5: Av
The fifth month falls between July and August. While this month is not specifically named in many biblical passages, it is referenced by number in the context of various events. For example, Ezra arrived in Jerusalem in the fifth month.
Ezra 7:8: “Ezra came to Jerusalem in the fifth month of the seventh year of King Artaxerxes.”
Month 6: Elul
Elul is the sixth month in the Jewish calendar, corresponding to August-September. It is a month of repentance and preparation for the Jewish New Year (Rosh Hashanah) and Yom Kippur. It is during this month that Nehemiah completed the reconstruction of the wall of Jerusalem.
Nehemiah 6:15: “So the wall was finished on the twenty-fifth day of the month of Elul, in fifty-two days.”
Month 7: Tishrei
The seventh month, Tishrei, is one of the most significant months, falling between September and October. It includes key Jewish holidays such as Rosh Hashanah (New Year), Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), and Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles). It was also the month when King Solomon dedicated the Temple.
1 Kings 8:2: “And all the men of Israel assembled themselves to King Solomon at the feast in the month of Tishrei, which is the seventh month.”
Month 8: Bul
This is the eighth month in the Jewish calendar, falling between October and November. It was during this month that King Solomon completed the construction of the Temple of God.
1 Kings 6:38: “In the eleventh year, in the month of Bul, which is the eighth month, the house was finished in all its parts.”
Month 9: Kislev
Kislev, the ninth month, falls between November and December. This month is referenced in the book of Zechariah when the prophet received a vision concerning Judah and Israel.
Zechariah 7:1: “In the fourth year of King Darius, the word of the Lord came to Zechariah on the fourth day of the ninth month, Kislev.”
Month 10: Tebeth
Tebeth, the tenth month, corresponds to December-January. This is the month when Esther was brought before King Ahasuerus.
Esther 2:16: “So Esther was taken to King Ahasuerus, into his royal palace, in the tenth month, which is the month of Tebeth, in the seventh year of his reign.”
Month 11: Shebat
The eleventh month, Shebat, corresponds to January-February in the Gregorian calendar. This month is also mentioned in the book of Zechariah.
Zechariah 1:7: “On the twenty-fourth day of the eleventh month, which is the month of Shebat, in the second year of Darius, the word of the Lord came to Zechariah.”
Month 12: Adar I
Adar I is the 12th month of the Jewish calendar, falling between February and March. This is when the Purim festival is celebrated, marking the deliverance of the Jews from Haman’s plot.
Esther 3:7: “In the first month, which is the month of Nisan, in the twelfth year of King Ahasuerus, they cast Pur—that is, the lot—before Haman to determine the day and the month, the twelfth month, which is the month of Adar.”
The 13th Month: Adar II
In a leap year, a 13th month called Adar II is added to the Jewish calendar. This adjustment is necessary to align the Jewish festivals with the correct agricultural seasons. For example, without adding Adar II, Passover could fall at the wrong time of the year, disrupting the celebration’s historical significance.
Which Calendar Should Christians Follow?
The question may arise: Should Christians follow the Jewish calendar or the Gregorian calendar? The truth is, calendars themselves do not bring us closer to God. Whether using the Jewish, Gregorian, or any other calendar, what truly matters is how we redeem the time.
As
Ephesians 5:15-16 says: “See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”
We redeem time by living in accordance with God’s will, pursuing holiness, worship, prayer, studying His Word, and fulfilling the work He has entrusted to us before the end of time.
May the Lord bless you as you walk wisely and make the most of every moment.
Maranatha.
What is Good Friday? And Why Is It Called “Good”?
Good Friday marks the final Friday of Jesus Christ’s life on earth. It is the day He endured immense suffering, was crucified, died, and was buried. Christians around the world observe this day annually to remember the suffering and sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is a solemn day of reflection on the weight of the cross, but it is also a day of immense hope for the believer.
Why Is It Called “Good Friday”?
A common question arises: Why is this day called “Good Friday” and not “Suffering Friday” or “Sad Friday”? After all, this was a day filled with darkness, grief, and deep suffering, as Jesus, our Savior, was rejected, tortured, and killed.
From a human perspective, the events of Good Friday appear sorrowful and filled with suffering. However, from a spiritual perspective, Good Friday is a day of immense joy for humanity. On this day, Jesus’ sacrifice led to the forgiveness of our sins, something that had been impossible since humanity lost its innocence in the Garden of Eden. If Jesus had not died for our sins, we would not have the opportunity for salvation. His death brought about our redemption, and as a result, we should rejoice. Nearly 2,000 years ago, Jesus’ sacrifice set us free from the bondage of sin and death. So, it is truly appropriate to call it “Good Friday,” as it marked the beginning of our salvation.
The Importance of the Cross in Christian Faith
The significance of Good Friday lies in the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. His death was not just an act of suffering, but the means by which humanity was reconciled to God. As the Apostle Paul writes in Romans 5:8 (NIV): “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Through Jesus’ death, God provided a way for forgiveness, cleansing, and a restored relationship with Him.
Think of it this way: It’s similar to a fish being caught. The fish experiences suffering as it dies, but the fisherman rejoices in the catch. In the same way, Jesus’ death was painful for Him, but it brought great joy and freedom to us as His followers. His sacrifice is our salvation, and without it, we would still be trapped in our sins. The shedding of His blood was the only way for our sins to be forgiven, as stated in Hebrews 9:22 (NIV): “In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” This is why Good Friday is rightly called “Good.”
Is There a Commandment to Abstain from Meat on Good Friday?
The answer is no. The practice of abstaining from meat on Good Friday is a tradition observed by many Christians, particularly in the Catholic Church, but it is not commanded in the Bible. Catholics abstain from eating meat on this day as a form of reverence for Christ’s sacrifice. Since meat is considered a luxury food, they choose not to indulge in it to honor the sacrificial death of Christ. This practice is also observed on Ash Wednesday and other Fridays during Lent.
However, it is important to note that there is no biblical command to abstain from meat on Good Friday. If you choose to eat meat on Good Friday, you are not sinning, and if you choose to abstain, you are not sinning either. This is a matter of personal conviction and tradition, not a requirement set by Scripture.
Is It a Sin to Celebrate Good Friday?
The answer is no. The Bible does not command or forbid the celebration of any specific day in honor of the Lord. It is a personal decision based on each individual’s conviction.
In Romans 14:5-6 (NIV), Paul writes:
“One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind. Whoever regards one day as special does so to the Lord. Whoever eats meat does so to the Lord, for they give thanks to God; and whoever abstains does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God.”
This passage emphasizes that the observance of certain days or practices, like Good Friday, is a personal choice and should be done according to individual belief. If you do not feel the need to observe Good Friday, you are free to make that choice, and you should not judge others who choose to observe it. Likewise, if you do choose to observe Good Friday, you should not judge those who do not.
In the same way, fasting during this period of Easter is not mandatory for Christians. If you do not feel led to fast, that is okay. But if you choose to fast as an expression of devotion to Christ, you should not be judged for it. The key is that each person should be fully convinced in their own heart, as Paul writes.
Shalom.
Please feel free to share this message with others.
Is “Easter” in the Bible? Should Christians Celebrate It?
Many believers are shocked to discover that the word “Easter” is not found anywhere in the Bible—at least not in its original meaning. In fact, the only word consistently used throughout Scripture is “Passover” (Hebrew: Pesach, Greek: Pascha)—a solemn and sacred feast established by God Himself.
So where did the term “Easter” come from, and should Christians observe it?
The Origins of the Word “Easter”
The term “Easter” does not come from the Bible—it has pagan roots. According to several historical sources, the name traces back to a Saxon fertility goddess named Ēostre (or Ostara), who was worshipped in ancient northern Europe. She was associated with springtime, fertility, and the sunrise—symbols of new life and rebirth.
The word “east”—from which “Easter” is derived—refers to the direction where the sun rises, which was considered sacred in pagan worship. Temples and altars were often built facing the east, as worshippers believed this direction was the source of blessing and new beginnings.
Pagans honored this goddess during the spring equinox, around March–April, offering sacrifices, engaging in fertility rituals, and celebrating with feasts and dancing. This period often overlapped with Jewish Passover—which is deeply biblical and sacred in origin.
How Paganism Mixed with Christianity
As Christianity spread through Europe, early church leaders were faced with pagan cultures that had deeply rooted traditions. Instead of removing those traditions completely, some chose to merge them with Christian truths in hopes of easier conversion.
One of the results of this compromise was the blending of the resurrection of Jesus with the fertility celebrations of Easter. Over time, the resurrection Sunday began to be called “Easter,” and customs such as Easter eggs and bunnies—symbols of fertility—crept into Christian observance, despite having no biblical foundation whatsoever.
The Biblical Foundation: The Resurrection, Not Easter
As Christians, our focus is not on seasonal festivals, eggs, or rabbits, but on the historical, powerful event of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
This event is the foundation of our faith. Paul writes:
“If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.”
— 1 Corinthians 15:17
The resurrection is what proved Jesus is the Son of God (Romans 1:4), and what gives us hope for eternal life.
The early Church didn’t call it “Easter.” They referred to it simply as “the Lord’s Day”, particularly the Sunday after Passover, and they gathered to worship, break bread, and remember the risen Savior (Acts 20:7; Revelation 1:10).
What’s the Problem with Celebrating “Easter”?
It’s not wrong to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus—in fact, it’s vital. The danger lies in:
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Using pagan traditions to honor a holy event
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Misrepresenting the resurrection with worldly behavior
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Turning a spiritual remembrance into a cultural holiday
When Christians celebrate the resurrection like the world celebrates Easter—with drunkenness, sensual dancing, feasting for pleasure, or Easter bunnies—we risk dishonoring Christ and aligning with a spirit that contradicts the gospel.
Paul warns us:
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
— Romans 12:2
How Should Christians Celebrate the Resurrection?
We must separate biblical truth from cultural noise. Whether or not the world calls it “Easter,” we must reclaim it as Resurrection Sunday—a day to:
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Worship with reverence and joy
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Reflect on the power of the resurrection in our lives
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Renew our walk with Christ
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Share the hope of the gospel with others
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Live in the power of the risen Savior every day
The celebration should be spiritual, holy, and centered on Christ—not on ancient rituals or cultural trends.
Names Don’t Define Us—Truth Does
Some may argue, “It’s just a name—we’re celebrating Jesus.” And that’s partly true. We don’t worship the name “Easter”—we worship the risen Christ.
Even if the world has corrupted the meaning, Christians can still gather on Resurrection Sunday, as long as the focus is on Jesus and not on the customs that come from paganism.
Think of it this way: even your birthday might fall on a date that pagans once celebrated something evil. That doesn’t mean your birthday is evil. What matters is what you do with that day.
Final Thoughts: A Holy Day, Not a Holiday
Let’s not be careless with the most sacred moment in Christian history. If we’re going to celebrate the resurrection, let us do so with purity, purpose, and passion.
If we feast, let it be on the Word of God.
If we gather, let it be around the presence of Christ.
If we rejoice, let it be because death has been defeated!
Reject the pagan “Easter” spirit. Embrace the Resurrected Christ.
Summary
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The word “Easter” has pagan origins and is not found in the Bible.
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The biblical celebration is Passover, which points to Jesus, our Passover Lamb (1 Corinthians 5:7).
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The resurrection should be honored, not with worldly customs, but with holy worship.
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Christians may observe the day, but not in the spirit of the world—only in the Spirit of Christ.
“Christ our Passover has been sacrificed for us—let us keep the feast… with sincerity and truth.”
— 1 Corinthians 5:7–8
Are There Two Passover Feasts in the Bible? (Numbers 9:11)
Question: According to Numbers 9:11, does the Bible mention two Passover celebrations in a single year?
Numbers 9:11 (NIV)
“They are to celebrate it on the fourteenth day of the second month at twilight. They are to eat the lamb, together with unleavened bread and bitter herbs.”
Answer:
Yes, God commanded the Israelites to celebrate Passover every year on the 14th day of the first month of their calendar. This feast commemorated the night God delivered Israel from slavery in Egypt (Exodus 12). It was a sacred and mandatory celebration for all Israelites.
However, in Numbers 9, we see God giving instructions for a second Passover, to be observed exactly one month later—on the 14th day of the second month. Why was this second date permitted?
It was intended only for those who were unable to participate in the first Passover due to:
- Being ceremonially unclean (especially from touching a dead body – Numbers 19:11),
- Or being on a long journey far from the assembly.
According to the law, anyone who was ritually unclean could not join the congregation in worship until they were cleansed, which often took at least seven days. As a result, some Israelites missed the first Passover.
God, in His mercy and justice, provided a way for them to still observe this important feast. Let’s read:
Numbers 9:10–12 (NIV)
[10] “Tell the Israelites: ‘When any of you or your descendants are unclean because of a dead body or are away on a journey, they may still celebrate the Lord’s Passover.
[11] They are to celebrate it on the fourteenth day of the second month at twilight. They are to eat the lamb, together with unleavened bread and bitter herbs.
[12] They must not leave any of it till morning or break any of its bones. When they celebrate the Passover, they must follow all the regulations.’”
This second Passover was a gracious exception—a chance for those who missed the original date not to be left out of the Lord’s appointed feast.
Should We Still Celebrate the Passover Today?
Under the New Covenant, we no longer observe Passover in a physical or ceremonial way as the Israelites did. That was a shadow of what was to come.
1 Corinthians 5:7 (NIV)
“For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.”
Jesus is our true Passover Lamb. His death fulfilled everything the original Passover symbolized: deliverance, protection through the blood, and freedom from slavery—this time from sin, not Egypt.
Therefore, we now live in a continuous state of spiritual Passover, walking daily in the freedom Christ purchased for us.
What About Valentine’s Day? Is It Similar to the Second Passover?
Some have tried to compare the February 14 celebration of Valentine’s Day to the second Passover found in Numbers 9, since both fall on the 14th day of the second month (according to the Gregorian calendar). However, this comparison is completely misguided.
- The Hebrew calendar differs from the Gregorian calendar.
The second month in the Hebrew calendar is not February. - The purpose and spirit of Valentine’s Day have no connection to God or biblical holiness.
Valentine’s Day is rooted in pagan traditions and emphasizes romantic love and sensual pleasures—things that often lead people away from God, not toward Him. - The love portrayed on Valentine’s Day is not the agape love of God.
The love God calls us to walk in is sacrificial, pure, and holy—totally different from the world’s portrayal of love.
Conclusion:
The second Passover was a special provision by God to allow His people to remain connected to Him, even when they missed the original feast. It was holy, set apart, and full of spiritual meaning.
Valentine’s Day, on the other hand, is not a biblical feast, nor is it inspired by God’s love. It is a worldly celebration, often leading to impurity, materialism, and carnal desires.
As believers, we are not called to blend heavenly truths with worldly customs. Let us reject pagan festivals and instead honor the Lord by living daily in the power of Christ’s Passover.
Romans 13:14 (NIV)
“Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.”
Let us celebrate Christ’s sacrifice daily in spirit and in truth—not just on a date, but in the way we live.
Kindly share this truth with others who may be confused about these matters. May the Lord bless you and keep you.
The Importance of water Baptism
Baptism is a fundamental command in Christianity and should not be taken lightly. Since Satan understands its significance, he tries to prevent people from being baptized altogether or misleads them into receiving baptism improperly while making them believe it was done correctly.
There are many benefits of baptism, but today, we will focus on one key aspect: baptism delivers us from God’s judgment upon our enemies and the enemies of the Lord.
Baptism as a Symbol of Salvation
When God decided to save Noah, He used water to destroy the sinful world while keeping Noah and his family safe in the ark. The same water that brought judgment upon the wicked also ensured Noah’s safety. The Bible compares this event to baptism:
1 Peter 3:20-21
“…In the days of Noah, while the ark was being built, only a few people—eight in all—were saved through water. And this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body, but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.”
Similarly, when God delivered the Israelites from Egypt, He used water once again. Instead of sending plagues or fire to destroy Pharaoh’s army, He led the Israelites through the Red Sea and drowned their enemies behind them. This event is also compared to baptism:
1 Corinthians 10:1-2
“For I do not want you to be ignorant of the fact, brothers and sisters, that our ancestors were all under the cloud and that they all passed through the sea. They were all baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea.”
In both cases, water separated God’s people from their enemies. Likewise, baptism symbolizes our transition from a sinful past to a new life in Christ. It signifies the defeat of our spiritual enemies—sin, oppression, and demonic influences—while we emerge victorious in Christ.
Why Baptism Must Be in the Name of Jesus
The Bible states that the Israelites were “baptized into Moses” when they passed through the Red Sea. Moses was their leader, bringing them out of Egypt into the Promised Land. Today, Jesus is our Moses—the one who leads us out of spiritual bondage into eternal life.
For this reason, baptism must be done in the name of Jesus, as shown in:
Acts 2:38 – “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.”
Acts 8:16 – “…They had simply been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.”
Acts 10:48 – “So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.”
Acts 19:5 – “On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.”
If you were baptized by sprinkling or in a different name, consider correcting it by following the biblical example of believers in Acts 19:1-5, who were re-baptized in the name of Jesus.
Take the Step of Baptism Today
Baptism is essential, and there is no reason to delay. You do not need to go through special classes to qualify—faith is the only requirement. The Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8 was baptized immediately after believing in Christ, without attending any preparatory lessons.
If you haven’t been baptized yet, find a church that baptizes by full immersion in the name of Jesus and take this important step. Baptism is free and an essential part of your spiritual journey.
Conclusion
Baptism is not just a religious ritual; it is a powerful act of obedience that marks a believer’s separation from their past life and entrance into a new life in Christ. It signifies salvation, deliverance, and a fresh start.
Take time to understand all the benefits of baptism and share this truth with others.
May the Lord bless you.
Maranatha!
The New Moon (Crescent Moon): What Does It Mean Biblically?
In the Bible, the term “New Moon” or “Crescent Moon” refers to the first day of the month in the Hebrew calendar. This day was considered sacred and was meant for worship, reflection, and offering sacrifices to God. The observance of the New Moon was closely linked to the Sabbath, the seventh day of rest, and was treated with equal reverence in ancient Israel.
The New Moon was celebrated every month, and it signified the beginning of a new cycle, a time of renewal and consecration. This day had specific rituals that the Israelites were required to observe as part of their covenant relationship with God.
Biblical Observances of the New Moon
The New Moon observance is primarily outlined in the Book of Numbers, where we see specific sacrifices prescribed for this occasion. It was a day to consecrate the new month by offering burnt offerings, grain offerings, and drink offerings to God.
- Numbers 28:11-15:
- “At the beginnings of your months you shall offer a burnt offering to the Lord: two young bulls, one ram, and seven lambs of the first year, without blemish, and their grain offering of fine flour mixed with oil…”
- The burnt offerings were accompanied by drink offerings, which were poured out in worship to God, symbolizing the people’s complete devotion to Him.
- Numbers 10:10:
- “Also in the day of your gladness, in your appointed feasts, and at the beginning of your months, you shall blow the trumpets over your burnt offerings and over the sacrifices of your peace offerings; and they shall be a memorial for you before your God: I am the Lord your God.”
The New Moon was not just about sacrifices; it was a time to call the people together, offering a chance for communal worship and reflection. The Israelites would also blow trumpets, a symbolic act to announce the sacred day.
Prophetic Significance and Decline of True Worship
While the New Moon was instituted as a holy day of worship, there were times when the Israelites fell into a pattern of mere ritual observance without true spiritual devotion. They began treating the New Moon festivals like empty rituals, and God warned them about the insincerity of their worship.
- Isaiah 1:13-14:
- “Bring no more futile sacrifices; incense is an abomination to Me. The New Moons, the Sabbaths, and the calling of assemblies—I cannot endure iniquity and the sacred meeting. Your New Moons and your appointed feasts My soul hates; they are a trouble to Me, I am weary of bearing them.”
- The warning here is that God does not delight in rituals that are performed without true reverence or a right heart. The rituals became burdensome because the people’s hearts were far from God, and their actions were not in line with His desires for their worship.
In Ezekiel 46:1-3, the New Moon was still a time for temple worship and offerings, yet the people often failed to engage in these practices in a meaningful way. God desires that His people worship Him with sincerity and devotion, not just out of obligation.
Is the New Moon Commandment Still Binding on Christians Today?
The New Moon observance, like other ceremonial laws of the Old Testament, is not binding on Christians today. Just as Sabbath observance is not required for salvation or daily practice, the New Moon observance was a part of the Old Covenant with Israel and was fulfilled in Christ.
- Colossians 2:16-17:
- “So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or Sabbaths, which are a shadow of things to come; but the substance is of Christ.”
- Paul explains that these observances, including the New Moon, were shadows or symbols pointing forward to Christ, who fulfilled the requirements of the law on our behalf. As Christians, our focus is now on Christ, who is the substance of these symbolic practices.
What Can Christians Learn from the New Moon Observance?
Although the New Moon observance is no longer required, there are timeless principles we can learn from it:
- Honor New Beginnings: The New Moon symbolizes new beginnings, and it’s a reminder for Christians to consecrate every new month, week, and day to God. It’s a call to pause, reflect, and dedicate time to worship and thanksgiving as we enter a new season in life.
- Give God Priority: Just as the Israelites were commanded to offer sacrifices and worship on the New Moon, Christians are encouraged to give God the first fruits of every new cycle—whether it’s the beginning of a new week, month, or year. This could be done through prayer, worship, and reflection on God’s goodness and guidance.
- Beware of Ritualism: One of the dangers the Israelites faced was the temptation to turn sacred rituals into empty traditions. The New Moon was meant to be a time of genuine devotion, but when done without sincerity, it became a burden. As Christians, we must ensure that our worship and spiritual practices are done with the right heart, not out of routine or obligation.
- Celebrate God’s Faithfulness: The New Moon was also a time to celebrate God’s provision and faithfulness. For Christians, every new day, week, and month is an opportunity to remember God’s faithfulness and the blessings He has provided in our lives.
Conclusion: The Significance of New Beginnings
While we no longer observe the New Moon in the same way as the ancient Israelites, the principle remains valuable. Every new cycle—whether a day, week, month, or year—is an opportunity to renew our commitment to God, thank Him for His goodness, and reflect on His role in our lives. We are called to make God a priority in every new beginning, ensuring that our worship is sincere, and our hearts are aligned with His will.
Let us take time each day to honor and worship God, not just as a ritual, but as a heartfelt response to His love and grace.
God bless you.
Please share this message with others as an encouragement in their walk with the Lord.
BUY THE LIVING WATER
The “living water” we read about in the Bible is not just ordinary water from a spring, a well, a river like the Jordan in Israel, nor is it some kind of anointing oil sold around today.
Living water is a spiritual reality that I want us to reflect on deeply today.
In the Gospel of John, Jesus gently introduces the concept of this living water—water that truly satisfies the deepest thirst of the human soul. It’s not water from a physical well.
John 4:5–15 (NIV) recounts this encounter:
“So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph.
Jesus, tired from the journey, sat down by the well about noon.
Soon a Samaritan woman came to draw water, and Jesus said to her, ‘Will you give me a drink?’
His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.
The Samaritan woman said to him, ‘You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?’ (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.)
Jesus answered her, ‘If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.’
‘Sir,’ the woman said, ‘you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water?
Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his livestock?’
Jesus answered, ‘Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.’
‘Sir,’ the woman said, ‘give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.’”
Have you noticed how Jesus clearly distinguishes the water of the well from the living water? The water from the well satisfies physical thirst temporarily, but the living water Jesus offers satisfies the soul forever.
What exactly is this living water?
Jesus Himself explains it further in John 7:37-39 (ESV):
“On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out,
‘If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink.
Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’’
Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.”
Here the “living water” is the Holy Spirit—the Spirit of God given to every believer. When we receive the Holy Spirit, our spiritual thirst for sin, for worldly pleasures, and for temporary satisfaction is quenched.
The Holy Spirit fills us with a joy, peace, and righteousness that surpass all earthly desires. Our cravings for sin, such as addiction, immorality, or evil, lose their power because the Spirit satisfies our deepest longings.
This is why receiving the Holy Spirit is so vital for every believer’s life.
However, it’s important to understand that the Bible says this living water is something we buy—not with money or material wealth, but with our lives. When we surrender our lives to Jesus and receive Him as Lord, we pay the cost of owning this living water.
Isaiah 55:1-2 (NIV) invites us:
“Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters;
and you who have no money, come, buy and eat!
Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost.
Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy?
Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare.”
Notice it says, “Come, buy without money.” The cost is not financial, but the surrender of ourselves to Christ—a spiritual investment.
So here is the question for you: Have you received Jesus? Have you been baptized properly in water in the name of Jesus, signifying your new life in Him? This is the only way to receive the living water.
Jesus invites in Revelation 22:17 (ESV):
“The Spirit and the Bride say, ‘Come.’ And let the one who hears say, ‘Come.’
Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.”
Do you desire the living water today?
Believe in Jesus, repent of your sins genuinely by turning away from them, and if you haven’t yet, be baptized in His name. This is the path to eternal satisfaction.
Maranatha!
Mada Nyinginezo:
