TheFeasts

OfIsrael

God’s Ordained Feasts:Why Study Them?

For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the

ti d f t f th S i t i ht hpatience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.Romans 15:4

A big clue…

…regarding a festival or a new moon or Sabbaths, g gwhich are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ. C l i 2 16b 17Colossians 2:16b-17

“The Jew’s Catechism

is his calendar.”

--Rabbi Hirsch

The 7 Feasts of Israel:God’s Prophetic CalendarGod s Prophetic Calendar

Tevet

Nri

PassoverTabernacles NisanTi

shr Unleavened

BreadFirstfruits

TabernaclesDay of Atonement

Trumpets

Tammuz Weeks (Pentecost)

The Redemptive Plan of GodCelebrated Ahead of Ultimate Fulfillment

P i l Pl d P f tl F lfill dPrecisely Planned, Perfectly FulfilledA Message to Everyone Who Has Ears to Hear

Th F t f I lTh F t f I lThe Feasts of IsraelThe Feasts of Israel

BIBLICAL PROPHECY IN THE 7 ORDAINED FEASTS OF ISRAELBIBLICAL PROPHECY IN THE 7 ORDAINED FEASTS OF ISRAEL

In the Hebrew Scriptures, the Jewish prophet Amos records that God declared He would do nothing without first revealing it to His servants the Prophets

In the Hebrew Scriptures, the Jewish prophet Amos records that God declared He would do nothing without first revealing it to His servants the Prophetswithout first revealing it to His servants, the Prophets(Amos 3:7). From the Old Covenant to the New, Genesis to Revelation, God provides picture after

i t f i ti l f ki d d f th

without first revealing it to His servants, the Prophets(Amos 3:7). From the Old Covenant to the New, Genesis to Revelation, God provides picture after

i t f i ti l f ki d d f thpicture of His entire plan for mankind and one of the most startling prophetic pictures is outlined for us in the Jewish Feasts of Leviticus 23, and Exodus 12/13.

picture of His entire plan for mankind and one of the most startling prophetic pictures is outlined for us in the Jewish Feasts of Leviticus 23, and Exodus 12/13., /, /

The Feasts of IsraelThe Feasts of Israel

Th H b d f f t ( di )Th H b d f f t ( di )The Hebrew word for feasts (moadim) literally means "appointed times." God has carefully planned and orchestrated the timing and sequence of each of these seven feasts to reveal

The Hebrew word for feasts (moadim) literally means "appointed times." God has carefully planned and orchestrated the timing and sequence of each of these seven feasts to revealand sequence of each of these seven feasts to reveal to us a special story. The seven annual feasts of Israel were spread over seven months of the Jewish calendar, at set times appointed by God. They are still

and sequence of each of these seven feasts to reveal to us a special story. The seven annual feasts of Israel were spread over seven months of the Jewish calendar, at set times appointed by God. They are still , pp y ycelebrated by observant Jews today. But for both Jews and non-Jews who have placed their faith in Jesus the Jewish Messiah these special days d t t th k f d ti th h G d’

, pp y ycelebrated by observant Jews today. But for both Jews and non-Jews who have placed their faith in Jesus the Jewish Messiah these special days d t t th k f d ti th h G d’demonstrate the work of redemption through God’s Son. All these feast days are also ordained Sabbath days.

demonstrate the work of redemption through God’s Son. All these feast days are also ordained Sabbath days.

The Feasts of Israel

Th fi t f f th f t d i

The Feasts of Israel

The first four of the seven feasts occur during the springtime, and early summer (Passover, Unleavened Bread, First Fruits, and Weeks) and they

ll h l d b f lfill d b th fi t i fall have already been fulfilled by the first coming of Jesus in the New Testament. The final three holidays (Trumpets, The Day of Atonement, and Tabernacles)

d i th f ll A th f i f toccur during the fall. As the four spring feasts were fulfilled literally and right on the actual feast day in connection with Christ's first coming, these three fall f t it i b li d ill lik i b f lfill d lit ll ifeasts, it is believed, will likewise be fulfilled literally in connection to the Lord's second coming.

The Jewish Year: 2 Calendars(Based on a Lunar Cycle)( y )

Month Civil CalendarCivil Calendar Religious CalendarReligious Calendar

1 Ti h iTi h i Ni NiNi Ni

“This month shall be your beginning of months; it shall1 TishriTishri Nisan or NissanNisan or Nissan

2 Heshvan or CheshvanHeshvan or Cheshvan IyarIyar3 KislevKislev SivanSivan

months; it shall be the first month of the year to you. Speak to all the congregation

f i4 TevetTevet TammuzTammuz5 ShevatShevat AvAv6 AdarAdar ElulElul

of Israel, saying: ‘On the tenth of this month every man shall take for himself a6 AdarAdar ElulElul

7 Nisan or Nissan (Aviv)Nisan or Nissan (Aviv) TishriTishri8 IyarIyar Heshvan or Heshvan or CheshvanCheshvan

for himself a lamb…(Exodus 12:2-3)

God rotated9 SivanSivan KislevKislev10 TammuzTammuz TevetTevet11 AvAv ShevatShevat

God rotated the Jewish calendar. Now Jews use two calendars

12 ElulElul AdarAdar(Aviv = "Spring" in Hebrew)(Aviv = "Spring" in Hebrew)

calendars, CIVIL and RELIGIOUS.

Jewish Feasts Cycle(compared to Gregorian Calendar)

Tevet

NisanTish

riPassover

Unleavened Bread

TabernaclesDay of Atonement n Bread

FirstfruitsDay of Atonement

Trumpets

Tammuz Weeks (Pentecost)

PASSOVER

(Pesach)(Pesach)

T b l b t d thTo be celebrated on the 14th day of the month of Nisan (spring). This is a celebration of the passing over of the Angel of Death in Egypt, and God’s savingin Egypt, and God s saving of the people through the blood of a lamb. The annual cycle of feastsannual cycle of feasts begins with Passover.

PASSOVER (Pesach)

3 Speak to all the congregation of Israel, saying: ‘On the tenth of this month every say g: O e e o s o e e yman shall take for himself a lamb, according to the house of his father, a lamb for a household 4 And if thelamb for a household. 4 And if the household is too small for the lamb, let him and his neighbor next to his house take it

Exodus 12:

3-20, according to the number of the persons; according to each man’s need you shall make your count for the lamb. 5 Your lamb yshall be without blemish, a male of the first year. You may take it from the sheep or from the goatsfrom the goats….

PASSOVER (Pesach)

6 Now you shall keep it until the fourteenth day of the same month. Then the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel shall kill it at twilight 7the congregation of Israel shall kill it at twilight. 7And they shall take some of the blood and put it on the two doorposts and on the lintel of the houses where they eat it. 8 Then they shall eat the flesh on that night; roasted in fire, with unleavened bread and with bitter herbs theyunleavened bread and with bitter herbs they shall eat it. 9 Do not eat it raw, nor boiled at all with water, but roasted in fire—its head with its legs and its entrails 10 You shall let none of itlegs and its entrails. 10 You shall let none of it remain until morning, and what remains of it until morning you shall burn with fire. …

PASSOVER (Pesach)

11 And thus you shall eat it: with a belt on your waist, your sandals on your feet, and your staff in your hand So you shall eat it in haste It is thein your hand. So you shall eat it in haste. It is the LORD’s Passover.

12 ‘For I will pass through the land of Egypt on that night, and will strike all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and againstland of Egypt, both man and beast; and against all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgment: I am the LORD. 13 Now the blood shall be a sign for you on the houses where you are And whenfor you on the houses where you are. And when I see the blood, I will pass over you; and the plague shall not be on you to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt. …

PASSOVER (Pesach)

14 ‘So this day shall be to you a memorial; and you shall keep it as a feast to the LORD throughout your generations You shall keep itthroughout your generations. You shall keep it as a feast by an everlasting ordinance. 15 Seven days you shall eat unleavened bread. On the first day you shall remove leaven from your houses. For whoever eats leavened bread from the first day until the seventh day, that personthe first day until the seventh day, that person shall be cut off from Israel. 16 On the first day there shall be a holy convocation, and on the seventh day there shall be a holy convocationseventh day there shall be a holy convocation for you. No manner of work shall be done on them; but that which everyone must eat—that only may be prepared by you. …

PASSOVER (Pesach)

17 So you shall observe the Feast of Unleavened Bread, for on this same day I will have brought your armies out of the land of Egypt Thereforeyour armies out of the land of Egypt. Therefore you shall observe this day throughout your generations as an everlasting ordinance. 18 In th fi t th th f t th d f ththe first month, on the fourteenth day of the month at evening, you shall eat unleavened bread, until the twenty-first day of the month at evening. 19 For seven days no leaven shall be found in your houses, since whoever eats what is leavened that same person shall be cut off fromleavened, that same person shall be cut off from the congregation of Israel, whether he is a stranger or a native of the land. 20 You shall eat nothing leavened; in all your dwellings you shallnothing leavened; in all your dwellings you shall eat unleavened bread.’” …

PASSOVER (Pesach) Exodus 13:3-10

More instruction 3 And Moses said to the people: “Remember this day in which you went out of Egypt, out of the house of bondage; for by strength of hand the LORD brought you out of this place. No leavened bread h ll b t 4 O thi d i t i th th Abibshall be eaten. 4 On this day you are going out, in the month Abib.

5 And it shall be, when the LORD brings you into the land of the Canaanites and the Hittites and the Amorites and the Hivites and the Jebusites, which He swore to your fathers to give you, a land , y g y ,flowing with milk and honey, that you shall keep this service in this month. 6 Seven days you shall eat unleavened bread, and on the seventh day there shall be a feast to the LORD. 7 Unleavened bread shall be eaten seven days And no leavened bread shall bebread shall be eaten seven days. And no leavened bread shall be seen among you, nor shall leaven be seen among you in all your quarters. 8 And you shall tell your son in that day, saying, ‘This is done because of what the LORD did for me when I came up from pEgypt.’ 9 It shall be as a sign to you on your hand and as a memorial between your eyes, that the LORD’s law may be in your mouth; for with a strong hand the LORD has brought you out of Egypt 10 You shall therefore keep this ordinance in its season fromEgypt. 10 You shall therefore keep this ordinance in its season from year to year.

PASSOVER (Pesach) Leviticus 23:5-8

Listing with other f t

5 On the fourteenth day of the first month at

feasts

twilight is the LORD’s Passover. 6 And on the fifteenth day of the same month is the Feast of Unleavened Bread to the LORD; seven days youUnleavened Bread to the LORD; seven days you must eat unleavened bread. 7 On the first day you shall have a holy convocation; you shall do no customary work on it 8 But you shall offer anno customary work on it. 8 But you shall offer an offering made by fire to the LORD for seven days. The seventh day shall be a holy convocation; you shall do no customary work on it.’”

Passover and Unleavened Bread are distinctly separate, for God’s prophetic th h th l b t d t th d h b llpurposes, though they are celebrated together and have become generally

accepted as one feast.

PASSOVER (Pesach)

There is more scripture dedicated to instructions about Passover and Unleavened Bread than any of the other feasts. It was not only part of an actual historical y pevent in Egypt, but would also foreshadow an earth shattering event to come, when another lamb would be offered for atonement and rescue humankind frombe offered for atonement and rescue humankind from death. God made sure that the people had this information so they would hopefully understand the critical nature of this foreshadowing and that whencritical nature of this foreshadowing, and that when that future time came, they would recognize the Lamb and understand the decision they needed to make For Passover each household each personmake. For Passover, each household, each person, had to bring in the lamb, and accept its covering. The same is true with the ultimate fulfillment of this Passover Lamb Each person must decide to acceptPassover Lamb. Each person must decide to accept its covering. No one can do it for you.

PASSOVERFrom Death to life

On the 10On the 10thth day of the first day of the first month, Nisan, (roughly month, Nisan, (roughly equivalent to April on our equivalent to April on our calendar), every family of calendar), every family of Israel was to take a lamb, without Israel was to take a lamb, without blemish, and separate it from the flock. blemish, and separate it from the flock. On the evening of the 14th the Passover On the evening of the 14th the Passover gglamb was killed, roasted, and eaten during the night. The lamb was killed, roasted, and eaten during the night. The blood was applied on the door posts and lintel. The blood on blood was applied on the door posts and lintel. The blood on the door brings salvation as the death angel passes the door brings salvation as the death angel passes g g pg g poverhead. It is the eve of the Passover and in the Exodus that overhead. It is the eve of the Passover and in the Exodus that follows God's covenant people are delivered from the follows God's covenant people are delivered from the bondage of Egypt. bondage of Egypt. Salvation came by the blood sacrifice of a Salvation came by the blood sacrifice of a bo dage o gyp .bo dage o gyp . Sa a o ca e by e b ood sac ce o aSa a o ca e by e b ood sac ce o aspotless lamb.spotless lamb.

PASSOVERFrom Death to life

One day beside the Jordan River, JohnOne day beside the Jordan River, Johnthe Baptist made a startling declaration: the Baptist made a startling declaration: “The next day John saw Jesus coming“The next day John saw Jesus comingThe next day John saw Jesus coming The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, ‘Behold! The Lamb toward him, and said, ‘Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of of God who takes away the sin of the world!’”the world!’” (John 1:29). After his encounter with the risen Jesus, Paul (John 1:29). After his encounter with the risen Jesus, Paul echoed this: echoed this: “…For indeed Christ, our Passover, was sacrificed for us.”“…For indeed Christ, our Passover, was sacrificed for us.”(1 Corinthians 5:7)(1 Corinthians 5:7)

O th 10O th 10thth d f th fi t th Ni J d d k i td f th fi t th Ni J d d k i tOn the 10On the 10thth day of the first month, Nisan, Jesus rode a donkey into day of the first month, Nisan, Jesus rode a donkey into Jerusalem Jerusalem –– the very day the Jews were to take the lamb into their the very day the Jews were to take the lamb into their households for Passover. Four days later, on the 14households for Passover. Four days later, on the 14thth day of Nisan, day of Nisan, Jesus was crucified on Passover He died at precisely 3 pm in theJesus was crucified on Passover He died at precisely 3 pm in theJesus was crucified, on Passover. He died at precisely 3 pm in the Jesus was crucified, on Passover. He died at precisely 3 pm in the afternoon, the very moment the Passover lambs were slaughtered in afternoon, the very moment the Passover lambs were slaughtered in the Temple. The blood of the promised Sacrifice Lamb was shed. This the Temple. The blood of the promised Sacrifice Lamb was shed. This is the redemption God promised and now provided It brings salvationis the redemption God promised and now provided It brings salvationis the redemption God promised and now provided. It brings salvation is the redemption God promised and now provided. It brings salvation to His covenant people, delivering them from the bondage of sin and to His covenant people, delivering them from the bondage of sin and death. death. This feast has been fulfilled perfectly, once and for all time.This feast has been fulfilled perfectly, once and for all time.

TRIVIA QUESTIONTRIVIA QUESTIONTRIVIA QUESTION:TRIVIA QUESTION:Do you know when Do you know when Noah’s Ark came toNoah’s Ark came to

rest on dry land?rest on dry land?

ANSWER: ANSWER:

Then the ark rested in the se enth month the se enteenth da of theThen the ark rested in the se enth month the se enteenth da of theThen the ark rested in the seventh month, the seventeenth day of the Then the ark rested in the seventh month, the seventeenth day of the month, on the mountains of Ararat.month, on the mountains of Ararat. (Genesis 8:4)(Genesis 8:4)

In other words, the Ark landed on the In other words, the Ark landed on the 1717thth day of Nisanday of Nisan (it was still the (it was still the ,, yy ((old month order at that time, before God rotated the calendar. Nisan old month order at that time, before God rotated the calendar. Nisan would have been the 7would have been the 7thth month then), month then), the same day as Jesus’ the same day as Jesus’ resurrection!resurrection!

Is it a coincidence that the Ark landed on the mountains of Ararat on Is it a coincidence that the Ark landed on the mountains of Ararat on exactly the same day as Jesus rose from the dead? Why would God exactly the same day as Jesus rose from the dead? Why would God tell us the date the Ark landed? Why is that important? Is it meretell us the date the Ark landed? Why is that important? Is it meretell us the date the Ark landed? Why is that important? Is it mere tell us the date the Ark landed? Why is that important? Is it mere coincidence? Of course not. God brought the Ark to rest on this day, coincidence? Of course not. God brought the Ark to rest on this day, a day that would be remembered, to point to another day of new a day that would be remembered, to point to another day of new beginnings, new life provided through the resurrection of His Son.beginnings, new life provided through the resurrection of His Son.beg gs, e e p o ded oug e esu ec o o s So .beg gs, e e p o ded oug e esu ec o o s So .

The Rabbis tell us:The Rabbis tell us:Coincidence is not a Kosher word!Coincidence is not a Kosher word!

FEAST OFUNLEAVENED BREADBREAD

(Hag HaMatzot)(Hag HaMatzot)

To be celebrated on the 15th day of the month of Nisan (spring), the day afterNisan (spring), the day after Passover. This is a 7-day feast, ending on the 21st of Nisan with 2 SabbathsNisan, with 2 Sabbaths.

UNLEAVENED BREAD (Hag MaMatzot)

6 And on the fifteenth day of the same month is the Feast of Unleavened Bread to o s e eas o U ea e ed ead othe LORD; seven days you must eat unleavened bread. 7 On the first day you shall have a holy convocation; you shallshall have a holy convocation; you shall do no customary work on it. 8 But you shall offer an offering made by fire to the LORD

Leviticus 23

6-7for seven days. The seventh day shall be a holy convocation; you shall do no customary work on it.’”y

THE FEAST OF UNLEAVENED BREADA Lesson about a Sinless Life, “The Bread of Heaven”

The day following Passover, the 15th of Nisan, began the feast of The day following Passover, the 15th of Nisan, began the feast of Unleavened bread. This feast covered seven days, from the 15th to Unleavened bread. This feast covered seven days, from the 15th to the 21st of Nisan The first and last days were "High Sabbath" daysthe 21st of Nisan The first and last days were "High Sabbath" daysthe 21st of Nisan. The first and last days were High Sabbath days, the 21st of Nisan. The first and last days were High Sabbath days, although they do not necessarily fall on the weekly Sabbath. "High although they do not necessarily fall on the weekly Sabbath. "High Sabbath" days are mandatory rest days which occur during some Sabbath" days are mandatory rest days which occur during some feast days Just as with the weekly Sabbath the day before anyfeast days Just as with the weekly Sabbath the day before anyfeast days. Just as with the weekly Sabbath, the day before any feast days. Just as with the weekly Sabbath, the day before any "High Sabbath" is a "preparation day." This means Passover, the 14th, "High Sabbath" is a "preparation day." This means Passover, the 14th, is also the "preparation day" for the "High Sabbath" on the 15th, (see: is also the "preparation day" for the "High Sabbath" on the 15th, (see: John 18:28, 19:14,31). The feast of Unleavened Bread celebrates the John 18:28, 19:14,31). The feast of Unleavened Bread celebrates the , , ), , )journey of the children of Israel through the wilderness, when God journey of the children of Israel through the wilderness, when God fed them with manna from heaven and supplied water out of the fed them with manna from heaven and supplied water out of the rock. rock. Leaven is a symbol for sin in scripture.Leaven is a symbol for sin in scripture.

After the Passover lambs were slain at twilight the Feast of After the Passover lambs were slain at twilight the Feast of Unleavened Bread began at sunset. All leaven, a type of sin, was Unleavened Bread began at sunset. All leaven, a type of sin, was

d f th h d th l d b d td f th h d th l d b d tremoved from the houses and the unleavened bread was eaten removed from the houses and the unleavened bread was eaten throughout the seven days of the feast.throughout the seven days of the feast.

THE FEAST OF UNLEAVENED BREADA Lesson about a Sinless Life, “The Bread of Heaven”

Jesus said, Jesus said, "I am the living bread which came down from "I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread that I shall give is My flesh, which I shall give for the life of bread that I shall give is My flesh, which I shall give for the life of the world.”the world.” (John 6:51). (John 6:51).

Jesus also said Jesus also said “The hour has come that the Son of Man should be “The hour has come that the Son of Man should be l ifi d M t dl I t l i f h t f lll ifi d M t dl I t l i f h t f llglorified. Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls glorified. Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls

into the ground and dies, it remainsinto the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain.produces much grain. (John 12:23(John 12:23--24) Jesus was crucified on 24) Jesus was crucified on PassoverPassover This feast (Unleavened Bread) was fulfilled when HisThis feast (Unleavened Bread) was fulfilled when HisPassover. Passover. This feast (Unleavened Bread) was fulfilled when His This feast (Unleavened Bread) was fulfilled when His body (His flesh) was laid in the tomb just before sunset, when the body (His flesh) was laid in the tomb just before sunset, when the "High Sabbath" of the Feast of Unleavened Bread began."High Sabbath" of the Feast of Unleavened Bread began. He was He was the sinless unleavened 'Bread of Heaven' offered as the perfectthe sinless unleavened 'Bread of Heaven' offered as the perfectthe sinless unleavened Bread of Heaven offered as the perfect the sinless unleavened Bread of Heaven offered as the perfect sacrifice. sacrifice.

FIRSTFRUITS

(Yom

HaBikkurim)

To be celebrated on the first day of the week (Sunday)day of the week (Sunday) after the weekly Sabbath following Passover, in the

th f i ( i )month of Nisan (spring). Jews today usually do not celebrate this day. yInteresting!

FIRSTFRUITS (Yom HaBikkurim)

9 And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, 10 “Speak to the children of Israel, and say to them: ‘When you come into the land which I give to you and reap its harvest thenthe land which I give to you, and reap its harvest, then you shall bring a sheaf of the firstfruits of your harvest to the priest. 11 He shall wave the sheaf before the LORD, to be accepted on your behalf; on the day after the Sabbath the priest shall wave it. 12 And you shall offer on that day, when you wave the sheaf, a male lamb of the first year, without blemish, as a burnt offering to the LORD. 13 Its grain offering shall be two-tenths of an ephah of fine

Leviticus 23

9-143 Its grain offering shall be two-tenths of an ephah of fine

flour mixed with oil, an offering made by fire to the LORD, for a sweet aroma; and its drink offering shall be of wine, one-fourth of a hin. 14 You shall eat neither bread nor parched grain nor fresh grain until the same day that you have brought an offering to your God; it shall be a statute forever throughout your generations in all your dwellings.

THE FEAST OF FIRSTFRUITSAfter a cold barren winter the first new life breaks forth.

On the first day of the week following On the first day of the week following Passover, in the month of Nisan, the firstfruits Passover, in the month of Nisan, the firstfruits of the barley harvest was gathered andof the barley harvest was gathered andof the barley harvest was gathered and of the barley harvest was gathered and waved before the Lord in celebration. waved before the Lord in celebration.

On the first day of the week following On the first day of the week following Passover (17th day of Nisan in 32 A.D.) Jesus Passover (17th day of Nisan in 32 A.D.) Jesus rose up from the grave. He is the firstfruits rose up from the grave. He is the firstfruits from the dead. from the dead.

This feast has been literally fulfilled in the This feast has been literally fulfilled in the resurrection of Jesus on the Feast of resurrection of Jesus on the Feast of Firstfruits.Firstfruits.

But now Christ has been raised from the But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who are dead, the first fruits of those who are asleepasleep 1 Corinthians 15:201 Corinthians 15:20asleep.asleep. 1 Corinthians 15:201 Corinthians 15:20

FEAST OF WEEKS(Pentecost) (Shavuot)(Shavuot)

T b l b t d 7To be celebrated 7 Sabbaths plus one day past Firstfruits (7X7+1=50, hence “pente”cost). Commemorated the giving of the Law at Mr. Sinai, andof the Law at Mr. Sinai, and celebrated the wheat harvest.

FEAST OF WEEKS (Shavuot)

Harvest Offering15 ‘And you shall count for yourselves from the day after the Sabbath, from the day that you brought the sheaf of the wave

Harvest Offering

offering: seven Sabbaths shall be completed. 16 Count fifty days to the day after the seventh Sabbath; then you shall offer a new grain offering to the LORD. 17 You shall bring from your dwellings two wave loaves of two-tenths of an ephah. They shall be of fine p yflour; they shall be baked with leaven. They are the firstfruits to the LORD. 18 And you shall offer with the bread seven lambs of the first year, without blemish, one young bull, and two rams. They shall be as a burnt offering to the LORD with their grain

Leviticus 23:

15-21They shall be as a burnt offering to the LORD, with their grain offering and their drink offerings, an offering made by fire for a sweet aroma to the LORD. 19 Then you shall sacrifice one kid of the goats as a sin offering, and two male lambs of the first year as a sacrifice of a peace offering 20 The priest shall wave themas a sacrifice of a peace offering. 20 The priest shall wave them with the bread of the firstfruits as a wave offering before the LORD, with the two lambs. They shall be holy to the LORD for the priest. 21 And you shall proclaim on the same day that it is a holy

i iconvocation to you. You shall do no customary work on it. It shall be a statute forever in all your dwellings throughout your generations.

THE FEAST OF WEEKS (Pentecost)The Old Covenant and the HarvestThe Old Covenant, and the Harvest

Rabbinic scholars believeRabbinic scholars believeRabbinic scholars believe Rabbinic scholars believe that it was on this day that that it was on this day that God visited His people after God visited His people after their exodus from Egypt andtheir exodus from Egypt andtheir exodus from Egypt and their exodus from Egypt and through Moses, brought the Law down through Moses, brought the Law down from Mount Sinai. This earthshaking day of from Mount Sinai. This earthshaking day of visitation, trembling, and betrothal is the visitation, trembling, and betrothal is the birthday of the nation of Israel. The Old birthday of the nation of Israel. The Old Covenant was a national covenant betweenCovenant was a national covenant betweenCovenant was a national covenant between Covenant was a national covenant between God and His covenant people. And so the God and His covenant people. And so the nation of Israel was established. This is nation of Israel was established. This is also a celebration and thanksgiving for thealso a celebration and thanksgiving for thealso a celebration and thanksgiving for the also a celebration and thanksgiving for the wheat harvest.wheat harvest.

THE FEAST OF WEEKS (Pentecost)A New Covenant, and the Harvest

On the Feast of Weeks, in the summer of the On the Feast of Weeks, in the summer of the year of Jesus death, burial and resurrection, year of Jesus death, burial and resurrection, God visited His people again. God visited His people again. The Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit filled 120 in the upper room.filled 120 in the upper room. The outpouring The outpouring of God's glory continued as they went out into of God's glory continued as they went out into th t t f th it f J l l i ith t t f th it f J l l i ithe streets of the city of Jerusalem proclaiming the streets of the city of Jerusalem proclaiming the Good News, the message of redemption and salvation. The the Good News, the message of redemption and salvation. The Feast of Pentecost is thereby fulfilled in the New Covenant and Feast of Pentecost is thereby fulfilled in the New Covenant and this day becomes the birthday of the Church For the next twothis day becomes the birthday of the Church For the next twothis day becomes the birthday of the Church. For the next two this day becomes the birthday of the Church. For the next two millennia the God of Israel continues to 'call out' His 'ekklesia', millennia the God of Israel continues to 'call out' His 'ekklesia', Congregation, or Church. God's Congregation now takes the Congregation, or Church. God's Congregation now takes the good news through Israel and beyond into the Gentile nations.good news through Israel and beyond into the Gentile nations.good news through Israel and beyond into the Gentile nations.good news through Israel and beyond into the Gentile nations.

This feast was literally fulfilled when the Holy Spirit came that 50th day after Jesus’ This feast was literally fulfilled when the Holy Spirit came that 50th day after Jesus’ resurrection. We are still living in this time period, the final fulfillment of this feast. This resurrection. We are still living in this time period, the final fulfillment of this feast. This time will continue, as Paul tells us, time will continue, as Paul tells us, “…until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in.”“…until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in.”(Romans 11:25) This is the age of the Church. The wheat harvest is representative of (Romans 11:25) This is the age of the Church. The wheat harvest is representative of the harvest of souls among the Gentiles.the harvest of souls among the Gentiles.

Some interesting comparisons between the 1st

Feast of Weeks, and Coming of the Holy Spirit atFeast of Weeks, and Coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Feast of Weeks AFTER Jesus)

First Pentecost Pentecost After Christ

The Commandments Given The Holy Spirit Giveny p

Fifty days from the crossing of the Red Sea Fifty days from the resurrection of Christ

Law of Yahweh written in Stone Law of Yahweh written on our hearts

Three thousand slain Three thousand receive salvation

The letter of the Law The Spirit of the Law

DAY OF TRUMPETS

(Yom Teruah)(Yom Teruah)(Also known as Rosh HaShanah)

To be celebrated on the 1st day of the month of Tishri (fall). This is the first of the fall feasts and thisthe first of the fall feasts and this day also marks the Jewish civil calendar New Year’s Day. There is very little instruction forThere is very little instruction for what to do on this day, other than the blowing of the trumpets. It is also a Sabbath u pe s. s a so a Sabbaday, as are all feast days.

DAY OF TRUMPETS (Yom Teruah, Rosh HaShanah)( , )

Memorial Blowing of Trumpets

23 Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, 24

“Speak to the children of Israel, saying: ‘In the th th th fi t d f th thseventh month, on the first day of the month,

you shall have a Sabbath-rest, a memorial of blowing of trumpets, a holy convocation. 25

Leviticus 23:

23-25g p y

You shall do no customary work on it; and you shall offer an offering made by fire to the LORD ’”LORD.

(Scripture does not provide many clues for future fulfillment on this one, other than the trumpets associated with the rapturethis one, other than the trumpets associated with the rapture of the church. Trumpets also associated with a call to assembly.)

THE FEAST OF TRUMPETS (Jewish New Year)A Call to Assembly

In the fall of the year and on the first day of Tishri trumpets are blown to announce the holy day of p y yRosh Hashanah (or Yom Teruah, the “Day of Blowing the Trumpet” also known as the Feast of Trumpets). This holy day marks the first day of the Hebrew (civil) new year. 'Rosh Hashanah" means 'head of the year'.

T t l bl d i i l ti f ti l i iTrumpets were also blown during special times of national crisis to call God's people to gather themselves together in a solemn assembly before God. Trumpets were sounded as a call to battle and also announce the coming of a king God did not tell theand also announce the coming of a king. God did not tell the people why they were to sound the trumpet. They were just told to do it. This was an advance celebration of the final trumpet blast.blast.

THE FEAST OF TRUMPETSA Call to Assembly

Many believe this day points to the Rapture of the Church when Jesus will appear in the heavens as He comes for His bride, the Church. The Rapture is always associated in Scripture with the blowing of

l d t t (1 Th l i 4 13 18 d 1a loud trumpet (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 and 1 Corinthians 15:52). On this day, perhaps a future On this day, perhaps a future Feast of Trumpets, the shofars will sound on a day Feast of Trumpets, the shofars will sound on a day like no other It is believed that all of God'slike no other It is believed that all of God's

Because this is still in the future, our like no other. It is believed that all of God s like no other. It is believed that all of God s

covenant people will be 'called out' to solemn covenant people will be 'called out' to solemn assembly. Some call this the rapture of the church. assembly. Some call this the rapture of the church. The trumpets of Jubilee will herald the opening ofThe trumpets of Jubilee will herald the opening of

knowledge of its perfect fulfillment is limited asThe trumpets of Jubilee will herald the opening of The trumpets of Jubilee will herald the opening of

the Day of the Lord.the Day of the Lord. Some disagree that the Some disagree that the rapture will be on this day. Some think it will be on rapture will be on this day. Some think it will be on the Feast of Weeks, the day the Church began. the Feast of Weeks, the day the Church began.

limited, as scripture does not indicate to us what the , y g, y g

They believe that the Church will be called home They believe that the Church will be called home on the day it began.on the day it began.

actual event will be.

THE FEAST OF TRUMPETSA Call to Assembly

God commanded Israel to keep a "High Sabbath" on the first day of the seventh month, by blowing a series of trumpets. The Scripture does not specify what this feast represents. They are just told to blow the trumpets. Paul said we will be raised at the "last trumpet:"

In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet y p pshall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. (1 Corinthians 15:52)

Some believe it is not a call Some believe it is not a call for the Church, but a call for the Church, but a call for Israel to redemption and for Israel to redemption and national salvation It maynational salvation It may

Some believe it is not a call Some believe it is not a call for the Church, but a call for the Church, but a call for Israel to redemption and for Israel to redemption and national salvation It maynational salvation It maychanged. (1 Corinthians 15:52) national salvation. It may national salvation. It may be both. Again, only God be both. Again, only God has foresight!has foresight!

national salvation. It may national salvation. It may be both. Again, only God be both. Again, only God has foresight!has foresight!

THE FEAST OF TRUMPETSA Call to Assembly

A Note About The Great Harpazo(“catching up”)(“catching up”)( g p )( g p )For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive andThen we who are alive andAnd the dead in Christ will rise first. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and Then we who are alive and remain shall be remain shall be caught upcaught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words.another with these words. (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18)

The word “rapture” comes from the Latin translation of this verse (rapturo=caught up). The Rapture of the Church is not in question. It is a Biblical event. The only thing still controversial about the Rapture is its timing. y g p gThere are various positions about that (pre-Trib, mid-Trib, post Trib, etc.). Whatever the timing, it is certain. Instead of “Rapture,” we could call it the “Great Harpazo,” (Greek) or the “Great Snatch.” That is a literal interpretation God will snatch His people up at the appointed time whichinterpretation. God will snatch His people up at the appointed time, which only He knows. It may be on the Feast of Trumpets, on the Feast of Weeks, or even another time. It will be God’s perfect time.

DAY OF ATONEMENT

(Y Ki )(Yom Kippur)

To be celebrated on the 10th day of th th f Ti h i (f ll) O thi dthe month of Tishri (fall). On this day the High Priest would enter the Holy of Holies to sprinkle blood on the Ark of the Covenant for Israel's sins. It is thethe Covenant for Israel s sins. It is the most solemn day on the calendar. The 10 days between Trumpets and Atonement are considered the 10 d f d f ffli ti It idays of awe, or days of affliction. It is a day of national repentance.

DAY OF ATONEMENT (Yom Kippur)

An Offering for the Atonement of the PeopleAn Offering for the Atonement of the People26 And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying: 27 “Also the tenth day of this seventh month shall be the Day oftenth day of this seventh month shall be the Day of Atonement. It shall be a holy convocation for you; you shall afflict your souls, and offer an offering made by fire to the LORD. 28 And you shall do no work on that same yday, for it is the Day of Atonement, to make atonement for you before the LORD your God. 29 For any person who is not afflicted in soul on that same day shall be cut

Leviticus 23:

26-32

off from his people. 30 And any person who does any work on that same day, that person I will destroy from among his people. 31 You shall do no manner of work; it h ll b t t t f th h t ti ishall be a statute forever throughout your generations in

all your dwellings. 32 It shall be to you a Sabbath of solemn rest, and you shall afflict your souls; on the ninth day of the month at evening from evening to eveningday of the month at evening, from evening to evening, you shall celebrate your Sabbath.”

THE DAY OF ATONEMENTA solemn day to repent and be saved, or be destroyed

On the Day of Atonement, the people were On the Day of Atonement, the people were to be “afflicted” in their souls. They were to to be “afflicted” in their souls. They were to b f th i i ( t) d d t db f th i i ( t) d d t d

On the Day of Atonement, the people were On the Day of Atonement, the people were to be “afflicted” in their souls. They were to to be “afflicted” in their souls. They were to b f th i i ( t) d d t db f th i i ( t) d d t dbe sorry for their sins (repent) and understand be sorry for their sins (repent) and understand the need for atonement. If they were not, the need for atonement. If they were not, God said He would destroy them.God said He would destroy them.

be sorry for their sins (repent) and understand be sorry for their sins (repent) and understand the need for atonement. If they were not, the need for atonement. If they were not, God said He would destroy them.God said He would destroy them.

In modern Judaism, the elaborate Temple service given by God has been replaced by one day of fasting and synagogue attendance (there is no Temple anymore). The Feast of Trumpets is followed by ten days called by modern Jews, "the days of awe." This is a time of national repentance for Israel, leadingthe days of awe. This is a time of national repentance for Israel, leading up to the Day of Atonement. The Day of Atonement is a very solemn, serious day for Jews. (You can see this seriousness on these faces!)

THE DAY OF ATONEMENTA solemn day to repent and be saved, or be destroyed

Many believe this prophetically points to Many believe this prophetically points to the day of the Second Coming of Jesus the day of the Second Coming of Jesus when He will return to earth. This will be awhen He will return to earth. This will be a

Many believe this prophetically points to Many believe this prophetically points to the day of the Second Coming of Jesus the day of the Second Coming of Jesus when He will return to earth. This will be awhen He will return to earth. This will be awhen He will return to earth. This will be a when He will return to earth. This will be a day when those who are not “afflicted” in day when those who are not “afflicted” in their souls, not sorry for their sins, not looking their souls, not sorry for their sins, not looking for atonement, will be destroyed. That will also be the Day of for atonement, will be destroyed. That will also be the Day of Atonement for the Jewish remnant when they "look upon Him whomAtonement for the Jewish remnant when they "look upon Him whom

when He will return to earth. This will be a when He will return to earth. This will be a day when those who are not “afflicted” in day when those who are not “afflicted” in their souls, not sorry for their sins, not looking their souls, not sorry for their sins, not looking for atonement, will be destroyed. That will also be the Day of for atonement, will be destroyed. That will also be the Day of Atonement for the Jewish remnant when they "look upon Him whomAtonement for the Jewish remnant when they "look upon Him whomAtonement for the Jewish remnant when they "look upon Him whom Atonement for the Jewish remnant when they "look upon Him whom they have pierced," repent of their sins, and receive Him as their they have pierced," repent of their sins, and receive Him as their Messiah (Zechariah 12:10 and Romans 11:1Messiah (Zechariah 12:10 and Romans 11:1--6, 256, 25--36). 36). The Passover The Passover clearly represents personal salvation, (each family had their own lamb, clearly represents personal salvation, (each family had their own lamb,

Atonement for the Jewish remnant when they "look upon Him whom Atonement for the Jewish remnant when they "look upon Him whom they have pierced," repent of their sins, and receive Him as their they have pierced," repent of their sins, and receive Him as their Messiah (Zechariah 12:10 and Romans 11:1Messiah (Zechariah 12:10 and Romans 11:1--6, 256, 25--36). 36). The Passover The Passover clearly represents personal salvation, (each family had their own lamb, clearly represents personal salvation, (each family had their own lamb, y p p ( yy p p ( yand celebrated Passover at home). But the Day of Atonement represents and celebrated Passover at home). But the Day of Atonement represents national salvation for Israel. Only one sacrifice was offered for the whole national salvation for Israel. Only one sacrifice was offered for the whole nation. The Bible (Zechariah most pointedly) makes it clear that at the nation. The Bible (Zechariah most pointedly) makes it clear that at the second coming of Christ the surviving Jews will look upon Christ andsecond coming of Christ the surviving Jews will look upon Christ and

y p p ( yy p p ( yand celebrated Passover at home). But the Day of Atonement represents and celebrated Passover at home). But the Day of Atonement represents national salvation for Israel. Only one sacrifice was offered for the whole national salvation for Israel. Only one sacrifice was offered for the whole nation. The Bible (Zechariah most pointedly) makes it clear that at the nation. The Bible (Zechariah most pointedly) makes it clear that at the second coming of Christ the surviving Jews will look upon Christ andsecond coming of Christ the surviving Jews will look upon Christ andsecond coming of Christ, the surviving Jews will look upon Christ and second coming of Christ, the surviving Jews will look upon Christ and be saved in a day.be saved in a day.

This feast will be literally fulfilled when Jesus returns to

second coming of Christ, the surviving Jews will look upon Christ and second coming of Christ, the surviving Jews will look upon Christ and be saved in a day.be saved in a day.

This feast will be literally fulfilled when Jesus returns toThis feast will be literally fulfilled when Jesus returns to earth as Judge and Savior for the nation of Israel.This feast will be literally fulfilled when Jesus returns to earth as Judge and Savior for the nation of Israel.

FEAST OF TABERNACLES

(S kk t)(Sukkot)

To be celebrated on the 15th day of the month of Tishri (fall) through the 22nd day. The people were to wave22 day. The people were to wave fruit and branches before the Lord, and construct temporary shelters (tabernacles, or “sukkot”) to

t G d’ i i fcommemorate God’s provision for them and presence with them in the wilderness after Egypt. It is a 7-day celebration, with an extra concluding , g(8th) day of rest, called Shemini Atsereth.

FEAST OF TABERNACLES (Sukkot)

Celebration of God’s Dwelling with UsCelebration of God’s Dwelling with Us33 Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, 34 “Speak to the children of Israel, saying: ‘The fifteenth day of this seventh month shall be the Feast of Tabernacles for seven days to the LORD. 35 On the first day there shall be a holy convocation. You shall do no customary work on it. 36 For seven days you shall offer an offering made by fire to the LORD. On the eighth day you shall have a holy convocation, and you shall offer an offering made by fire to the LORD. It is a sacred assembly, and you shall do no customary work on it…. 39 ‘Also on the fifteenth day of the seventh month, when you have gathered in the fruit of the land, you shall keep the feast of the LORD for seven days;

Leviticus 23:

33-36, 39-43

on the first day there shall be a Sabbath-rest, and on the eighth day a Sabbath-rest. 40 And you shall take for yourselves on the first day the fruit of beautiful trees, branches of palm trees, the boughs of leafy trees, and willows of the brook; and you shall rejoice before the LORD

41your God for seven days. 41 You shall keep it as a feast to the LORD for seven days in the year. It shall be a statute forever in your generations. You shall celebrate it in the seventh month. 42 You shall dwell in booths for seven days. All who are native Israelites shall dwell

43in booths, 43 that your generations may know that I made the children of Israel dwell in booths when I brought them out of the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God.’”

THE FEAST OF TABERNACLESDwelling Together

Five days after the Day of Five days after the Day of Atonement is the Feast of Atonement is the Feast of Tabernacles. From the 15th Tabernacles. From the 15th to the 22nd of the seventh month was a time of theto the 22nd of the seventh month was a time of theto the 22nd of the seventh month was a time of the to the 22nd of the seventh month was a time of the greatest rejoicing. It was the festival of all festivals. Israel greatest rejoicing. It was the festival of all festivals. Israel was commanded to build tents (tabernacles) and live in was commanded to build tents (tabernacles) and live in them during the feast days This commemorated howthem during the feast days This commemorated howthem during the feast days. This commemorated how them during the feast days. This commemorated how God brought them out of Egypt, through the wilderness God brought them out of Egypt, through the wilderness into the promised land, and dwelled among them. into the promised land, and dwelled among them. Secondly, they were to cut off branches of palm trees Secondly, they were to cut off branches of palm trees and wave them, rejoicing before the Lord. This is the and wave them, rejoicing before the Lord. This is the most joyful of all the feasts.most joyful of all the feasts.most joyful of all the feasts.most joyful of all the feasts.

THE FEAST OF TABERNACLESDwelling Together

Even the Jews today recognize that Even the Jews today recognize that th F t f T b l l k f dth F t f T b l l k f dthe Feast of Tabernacles looks forward the Feast of Tabernacles looks forward to the Kingdom of the Messiah. to the Kingdom of the Messiah. Zechariah 14:16Zechariah 14:16--21 states clearly that 21 states clearly that after Jesus sets up His Kingdom theafter Jesus sets up His Kingdom theafter Jesus sets up His Kingdom the after Jesus sets up His Kingdom the people will celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles as a yearly people will celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles as a yearly memorial. Also, Revelation 7:9memorial. Also, Revelation 7:9--17 describes the saints who have 17 describes the saints who have come through the "great tribulation." This scene takes place at thecome through the "great tribulation." This scene takes place at thecome through the great tribulation. This scene takes place at the come through the great tribulation. This scene takes place at the inauguration of Christ's Kingdom. It depicts a grand celebration with inauguration of Christ's Kingdom. It depicts a grand celebration with the saints waving "palm branches." They are celebrating the Feast the saints waving "palm branches." They are celebrating the Feast of Tabernacles. The marriage supper will likely take place during of Tabernacles. The marriage supper will likely take place during g pp y p gg pp y p gthis feast, (Isaiah 25:6this feast, (Isaiah 25:6--8). The book of Zechariah lets us know this 8). The book of Zechariah lets us know this feast is representative of the Millennial Kingdom. feast is representative of the Millennial Kingdom. It will be literally It will be literally fulfilled when Jesus takes His throne on earth, and we dwell together fulfilled when Jesus takes His throne on earth, and we dwell together in His Presence in that Kingdom. We have a lot more information in His Presence in that Kingdom. We have a lot more information about this fulfillment than the other fall feasts.about this fulfillment than the other fall feasts.

JESUS AND THE FEAST OF TABERNACLES

Two most important ceremonies of the Feast of Tabernacles— pouring out of water and the illumination of the Temple were both of post-Mosaic origin. However this took on a new and greater meaning when Jesus stood in the

Two most important ceremonies of the Feast of Tabernacles— pouring out of water and the illumination of the Temple were both of post-Mosaic origin. However this took on a new and greater meaning when Jesus stood in the Temple (John 8:12) and made two important declarations. One ritual included the lighting of huge Menorahs at the Court of the Women. This is the probable background for Jesus' statement: "I am the light of the world."(John 8:12).

Temple (John 8:12) and made two important declarations. One ritual included the lighting of huge Menorahs at the Court of the Women. This is the probable background for Jesus' statement: "I am the light of the world."(John 8:12).(John 8:12).

John also wrote: "On the last day, that great day of the feast [Shemini Atsereth], Jesus stood and cried out, saying, ‘If anyone thirsts, let him come t M d d i k H h b li i M th S i t h id t f hi

(John 8:12).

John also wrote: "On the last day, that great day of the feast [Shemini Atsereth], Jesus stood and cried out, saying, ‘If anyone thirsts, let him come t M d d i k H h b li i M th S i t h id t f hito Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’" (John 7:37-38). The Son of God was saying in the clearest possible way that He alone was the source of life and blessing; that He could meet every need of the human heart.

to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’" (John 7:37-38). The Son of God was saying in the clearest possible way that He alone was the source of life and blessing; that He could meet every need of the human heart. g; y

The water and the "pillar of light" provided during the wilderness wandering (when people dwelt in tabernacles) was temporary and in contrast to the continuing water and light claimed by Jesus during this feast which

g; y

The water and the "pillar of light" provided during the wilderness wandering (when people dwelt in tabernacles) was temporary and in contrast to the continuing water and light claimed by Jesus during this feast whichcontinuing water and light claimed by Jesus during this feast which commemorated that wandering period.continuing water and light claimed by Jesus during this feast which commemorated that wandering period.

Shemini AtserethShemini AtserethThe 8th day following Sukkot…The 8th day following Sukkot…

What is this?What is this?

Most people have no idea what this day means. Many don’t even know it exists in the calendar of feasts. But we Most people have no idea what this day means. Many don’t even know it exists in the calendar of feasts. But we know that God has purpose in all things. This day is not just an extra day God gave for rest – a nice bonus day. It is the end of the feast cycle, and has very special meaning.

know that God has purpose in all things. This day is not just an extra day God gave for rest – a nice bonus day. It is the end of the feast cycle, and has very special meaning.

Leviticus 23:39-41 contains information mostly about Sukkot, the Feast of Tabernacles. But an interesting

39 ‘Also on the fifteenth day of the seventh month, when

gstatement is made…

Also on the fifteenth day of the seventh month, when you have gathered in the fruit of the land, you shall keep the feast of the LORD for seven days; on the first day there shall be a Sabbath-rest, and on the eighth day a Sabbath-rest. 40 And you shall take for yourselves on the first day the fruit of beautiful trees, branches of palm trees, the boughs of leafy trees, and willows of the brook; and you shall

j i b f th LORD G d f d 41 Yrejoice before the LORD your God for seven days. 41 You shall keep it as a feast to the LORD for seven days in the year. It shall be a statute forever in your generations. You shall celebrate it in the seventh monthshall celebrate it in the seventh month.

There is an extra day (an 8th day) after Sukkot, the 7-day celebration of tabernacles What might this be about??celebration of tabernacles. What might this be about??

This 'Last Great Day' was depicted anciently under the Old Covenant in a most spectacular and memorable way. Errol Müller describes it this way:

"The history of this day contained two beautiful and moving ceremonies: the ritual of 'the Pouring of Water' and the 'Lighting of the Temple'. It pictures for the Hebrew people a most joyous time, as the Messiah who is the light of the world pours out the living waters of theMessiah who is the light of the world, pours out the living waters of the Holy Spirit (Ruach haQodesh) bringing [ELOHIM'S] salvation to all the people. The day was called in Hebrew, Hoshana Rabba, which means 'Day of Hosanna'.

"The Temple priests divided themselves into three large groups, with each group heading off out of the city in different directions. One group set off to Bethlehem to purchase animals for the sacrifice. Another group traveled in procession to a place below Jerusalem called Motza, where they cut willow branches. The third group took a golden flagon with them to the Pool of Siloam, to draw three measures of water to be used in the ritual of 'the Pouring of Water'.used in the ritual of the Pouring of Water .

"Th li ti di h ll th t d t th"The climatic ending came when all three groups returned to the Temple in procession for the ceremony of 'the Lighting of the Temple'.Following the three groups of priests were tens of thousands of pilgrims who would flood the streets of Jerusalem and crowded into the Temple pmount area. Each one would be carrying a lighted torch. And then four huge oil-burning vats were lit. They were so bright that they actually beamed shafts of light across the city like search lights to today. The entire city was illuminated for miles It was a wonderful breathtakingentire city was illuminated for miles. It was a wonderful breathtaking sight, as the soft candle light reflected off the natural limestone of the buildings, bringing a magical glow to Jerusalem.

"Then they placed their sacrifices upon the altar and the willow-bearing priests placed their willow branches around the altar forming a canopy over the sacrificial animals Lastly a priest would then take thecanopy over the sacrificial animals. Lastly, a priest would then take the golden flagon and pour the water into a basin at the foot of the altar while his assistant poured measures of wine into another bowl. As this was taking place, the priests blew their trumpets and all the people waved palm branches while singing praises from Psalms 113-118, and calling the festival 'the season of our joy'.

"Yah'shua chose this electrifying moment to make an astonishing announcement to the crowd in the Temple courtyard. The Apostle John records in 7:37, 'On the last day, that great day of the feast , y, g y(Shemini Atsereth), Yah'shua stood and cried out, saying: 'If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink.' Yah'shua’s symbolism was loaded with meaning to the [Judahites] who witnessed it. The tragedy today is that most in the church haven't got a cluetoday is, that most in the church haven t got a clue.

"The stunning symbolism also becomes prophetic as we are reminded of the ultimate price of love He paid when John continues in v 38: 'He who believes in Me as the Scripture has said out of hisin v.38: He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.‘ (speaking of the Holy Spirit to come later) Shortly John writes of Yah'shua's crucifixion in 19:34: '... One of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out.'"

Shemini Atsereth marks the eighth day following Sukkot (Tabernacles). It is the culmination of a long journey from

h ( ) f l d i i t t f llPesach (Passover) - from slavery and misery in Egypt - to full liberty and complete happiness in the Kingdom of our God. It is the final 'act' in the drama of humanity, the goal to which all who love God aspire and the end of the road of this murkywho love God aspire, and the end of the road of this murky wandering in the avenues of mortality. Shemini Atsereth is the grand conclusion, the great finale, the last victory parade to mark the end of the old world as we knew it and themark the end of the old world as we knew it and the beginning of the new one which God promised the prophets and which all righteous men and women have yearned for. Today, at some future time - hopefully not too far distant -y, p yimmortality begins and the old life is left behind and forgotten for ever.

About this day Errol Müller writes further:About this day, Errol Müller writes further: "The observance of the day (Shemini Atsereth) teaches us that this is the last Holy Day, the end of the harvest season and the final lesson in our Creator's great planseason, and the final lesson in our Creator s great plan of redemption for all of humanity. He has kept His promises and now His people can enjoy the fruits of His promises.

This day represents the eternity beyond theThis day represents the eternity beyond the Millennial Kingdom where Jesus makes all things new, and we are together in perfection g g palways.

I ’t G d ? A d iIsn’t our God awesome? And very precise.

Sh i i At th i th i hth d th t f llSh i i At th i th i hth d th t f llShemini Atsereth is the eighth day that follows the seven days of Sukkot. Seven is the number of perfect completeness, signifying a complete unit

Shemini Atsereth is the eighth day that follows the seven days of Sukkot. Seven is the number of perfect completeness, signifying a complete unit of time, each seven-day week ending with the 7th or Sabbath day. Thus, as Edward Chumneyputs it, "the eighth day is the day after time" or,

of time, each seven-day week ending with the 7th or Sabbath day. Thus, as Edward Chumneyputs it, "the eighth day is the day after time" or,puts it, the eighth day is the day after time or, as Strassfeld puts it, "a time beyond Time". In scripture, the number 8 stands for new beginnings

puts it, the eighth day is the day after time or, as Strassfeld puts it, "a time beyond Time". In scripture, the number 8 stands for new beginningsbeginnings.

We are looking beyond the present world system

beginnings.

We are looking beyond the present world system into God's world, into a new time zone beyond time, a new (to us) reality, a new world. We are looking into a glorified earth, and eternity

into God's world, into a new time zone beyond time, a new (to us) reality, a new world. We are looking into a glorified earth, and eternitylooking into a glorified earth, and eternity together with our God and His Lamb.looking into a glorified earth, and eternity together with our God and His Lamb.

Grand Design…Grand Design…

THE FEASTS OF ISRAEL ARE MILE MARKERS ON THE PATH OF THE SAINTS AS THEY MAKE THEIR PILGRIMAGE THROUGH HOLY THE FEASTS OF ISRAEL ARE MILE MARKERS ON THE PATH OF THE SAINTS AS THEY MAKE THEIR PILGRIMAGE THROUGH HOLY HISTORY. THE FEASTS MARK OUT GOD'S AGENDA FOR THE REDEMPTION, SANCTIFICATION, AND ULTIMATE GLORIFICATION OF ALL HIS COVENANT PEOPLE DRAWN OUT AS A REMNANT ELECT FROM ISRAEL AND THE CHURCH

HISTORY. THE FEASTS MARK OUT GOD'S AGENDA FOR THE REDEMPTION, SANCTIFICATION, AND ULTIMATE GLORIFICATION OF ALL HIS COVENANT PEOPLE DRAWN OUT AS A REMNANT ELECT FROM ISRAEL AND THE CHURCHFROM ISRAEL AND THE CHURCH.

In these sacred convocations we call the Feasts of Israel, the outline of Gods sovereign plan of

FROM ISRAEL AND THE CHURCH.

In these sacred convocations we call the Feasts of Israel, the outline of Gods sovereign plan ofoutline of Gods sovereign plan of the ages is laid out for the covenant people of God. The feasts, as they are fulfilled, are key

outline of Gods sovereign plan of the ages is laid out for the covenant people of God. The feasts, as they are fulfilled, are keyfeasts, as they are fulfilled, are key points on a roadmap showing us where we have come so far and shining a light on the pathway as it

feasts, as they are fulfilled, are key points on a roadmap showing us where we have come so far and shining a light on the pathway as it g gleads us onward into God’s predetermined history.

g gleads us onward into God’s predetermined history.

The clock continues to tick…The clock continues to tick…

Four Feasts of Israel have already been fulfilled. Three are yet to unfold. The Feast of Trumpets is the 5th feast. It will be the next feast to emerge. The Day of Atonement is the 6th feast. This is the most solemn day on the Hebrew calendar. When it erupts into

thl ti it ill b i t th l t d f thi t ilearthly time it will bring us to the last day of this present evil age. For most people the Day of Atonement is just another obscure Jewish holiday. It is a date on a Hebrew calendar of unknown significance But all that is destined to change The Day ofsignificance. But all that is destined to change. The Day of Atonement is destined to be the opener to the Day of the Lord. This will then usher in the climax of this age. Unrepentant evildoers will be carried off in that final grim harvest of theevildoers will be carried off in that final grim harvest of the wicked. Then comes the awesome and magnificent Millennial reign of Jesus, as He dwells with us on earth.

The Seven Feasts of the Lord are not just quaint little Jewish traditions. Each of them give rise to seven blockbuster days in holy history. Four of the seven have already been fulfilled. There are three left to go. Are we getting close?

1. Passover Fulfilled!(By Jesus at His crucifixion Nisan 14

2. Unleavened Bread Fulfilled!(B J t Hi b i l Ni 15

SPRING AND SUMMER FEASTS FULFILLED

(By Jesus at His burial Nisan 15

3. Firstfruits Fulfilled!(By Jesus at His resurrection Nisan 17)

4. Weeks Fulfilled!(By the coming of the Holy Spirit 50 days after Firstfruits)

Diaspora for Jews

Ch h A f G til

6,000 Years? The Nation Israel

Church Age for Gentiles

Genesis Rest of OTNT400

yrs

FALL FEASTS

? Soon ?

5. Trumpets Unfulfilled(The calling of the Church?)

6. Day of Atonement Unfulfilled(The Day of Judgment and Salvation)

YET TO COMEWhere are We

(The Day of Judgment and Salvation)

7. Tabernacles Unfulfilled(The Millennial Kingdom, Reign of Jesus, our Dwelling with Him)

Now??

So what does all this mean to us?So what does all this mean to us?Our God says what He means, and means what He says. Our God says what He means, and means what He says. yAnd He always does what He says He will do –

yAnd He always does what He says He will do –yperfectly, precisely and completely. He has been, is,

yperfectly, precisely and completely. He has been, is, and will be faithful to do all that He has promised.and will be faithful to do all that He has promised.

Bottom line? He is trustworthy! We can count on Him, always. He has proven that over andBottom line? He is trustworthy! We can count on Him, always. He has proven that over andon Him, always. He has proven that over and over and over again. He is worthy of our faith.on Him, always. He has proven that over and over and over again. He is worthy of our faith.