Christ in the Biblical Feasts — Week 1
Key Scripture
“Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, Concerning the feasts of the LORD, which ye shall proclaim to be holy convocations, even these are my feasts.”
— Leviticus 23:2 (KJV)
“Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.”
— Colossians 2:17 (KJV)
Historical Background
In the Old Testament, God established specific appointed times, called feasts, for the nation of Israel. These feasts were not man-made traditions but were commanded directly by God. They were observed at specific times throughout the year and served as holy gatherings for worship, remembrance, and instruction.
These feasts reminded Israel of God’s deliverance, provision, and faithfulness. They marked important events in their history, such as their deliverance from Egypt and God’s continued care for them in the wilderness. Through these observances, each generation was taught about God’s power, holiness, and covenant relationship with His people.
Prophetic Meaning
Beyond their historical importance, these feasts also served a prophetic purpose. Scripture teaches that they were “a shadow of things to come.” A shadow points to something real and greater than itself. In this case, the feasts pointed forward to the coming of Jesus Christ and His work of redemption.
God was revealing His plan of salvation long before Christ came into the world. The timing, structure, and meaning of these feasts all foreshadowed events that would be fulfilled through Christ’s life, death, resurrection, and future return.
This demonstrates that God’s plan of redemption was established from the beginning and revealed progressively through Scripture.
Fulfillment in Christ
Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of what these feasts foreshadowed. What was once observed symbolically under the Old Testament law has been fulfilled completely through His finished work. Christ’s sacrifice provided the true atonement for sin, His resurrection secured victory over death, and His ongoing work continues to accomplish God’s redemptive purposes.
The feasts were temporary observances designed to point forward to a permanent solution. Christ is that solution. He is the substance to which the shadows pointed.
Through Christ, believers receive forgiveness, reconciliation with God, and the promise of eternal life.
Application for Christians Today
Christians are not commanded to observe the Old Testament feasts as Israel did under the law. Scripture teaches that these observances were fulfilled in Christ. However, studying them strengthens our understanding of God’s Word and reveals the unity of Scripture.
The feasts demonstrate God’s sovereignty and His perfect plan of redemption. They show that salvation was not an afterthought, but part of God’s eternal purpose. Understanding their meaning deepens our appreciation for the work of Christ and strengthens our confidence in the truth of Scripture.
Believers today rest not in the observance of ceremonial law, but in the finished work of Jesus Christ.
Summary
The biblical feasts were divinely appointed observances given to Israel that served both historical and prophetic purposes. They revealed God’s holiness, His plan of redemption, and His faithfulness to His people. These feasts pointed forward to Jesus Christ, who fulfilled their meaning completely through His redemptive work.
Studying these appointed times helps believers understand the depth of God’s plan and strengthens faith in Christ, the true fulfillment of God’s promises.
Next Week: Passover — Christ Our Perfect Sacrifice