Passover and Easter stand as bookends to a divine narrative, spanning thousands of years, uniting the Old and New Testaments into one great story of God’s love and redemption. While traditionally viewed as distinct celebrations—Passover for the Jewish people and Resurrection day for Christians—the biblical foundation reveals them as intimately connected, unveiling a singular redemptive truth.
Each year, the Passover season offers a moment to reflect on the story of redemption that began in Egypt. The Israelites, enslaved for centuries, were set free by the mighty hand of God. The blood of the lamb marked their doors, sparing their firstborn from death and securing their exodus. This momentous event foreshadowed an even greater deliverance—the sacrifice of Jesus the Messiah. His crucifixion and resurrection, celebrated by Christians at Easter, fulfilled the ultimate redemption, freeing humanity from the bondage of sin. The cross only makes sense in the shadow of the Passover lamb.
In Luke’s Gospel, Jesus directly linked His mission to Passover. At His final meal, He took the bread, broke it, and declared, “This is My body, which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” Then, lifting the cup, He proclaimed, “This cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in My blood” (Luke 22:19-20). The elements of the Passover meal—unleavened bread and wine—took on a new meaning, pointing to His sacrifice.
The fulfillment of the Passover in Jesus’ death and resurrection was not an afterthought; it was embedded in God’s redemptive plan. The Old Testament is filled with prophecies that reveal His purpose. Isaiah 53 describes the suffering servant, “like a lamb that is led to slaughter,” who bears the sins of many. Daniel 9:24-26 foretells the Messiah’s atoning death, while Leviticus 23 outlines the feasts that mirror His mission—the spring feasts fulfilled in His first coming and the fall feasts anticipating His return.
As believers, recognising the Jewish roots of our faith enriches our understanding of Yeshua’s sacrifice and resurrection.
Celebrating Passover through a Messianic lens provides profound insights into God’s grand design. Many churches and families today observe Passover Seders, following a Jesus-centred Haggadah that highlights the connection between the first Exodus and the greater redemption found in Christ. By doing so, they experience the deep symbolism woven into the festival.
As this season unfolds, let us pray for our Jewish friends and family members to see the beautiful continuity of Scripture. May they come to recognise the fulfillment of Passover in Jesus, the true
Lamb of God. His sacrifice was not an isolated event but the culmination of God’s eternal plan of redemption. May the Messiah of the Passover be more precious to us than ever before!
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