LEVITICUS 23 A Bible Study On the 7 Jewish Feasts The Character & Mission Of The Messiah Prophetically Revealed Compiled By Klaus G. Schiessel
Introduction Leviticus is a book about Holiness through the process of sanctification or separation (Heb. "qdsh" or "qodesh"), The words "priest", "sacrifice, blood" and "offering occur often, The Hebrew word "qodesh" translated as "holiness" or "holy appears more than 150 times. Throughout the book of Leviticus God is shown commanding: "You shall be holy, for I am holy". (See 1 Peter 1:15-20). This book was written by Moses being instructed by God sometime between 1450-1410 BC The three main themes or "three R's" of Leviticus are: (1) Repentance (2) Redemption (3) Rest Correspondingly, two types of relationships are foreshadowed in the Jewish feasts: The first is the relationship we can all have through a personal repentance, redemption, and rest in our Savior, Jesus Christ. The second is the relationship Israel will have in the "Day of the Lord" through the national gathering, repentance, and rest in their Messiah, Jesus Christ. The Jewish feasts were a part of the Mosaic Law 1 (Ex. 19:1-8) and as such could never in themselves reconcile (redeem) us to God. The Law was given to show us what we would have to do on our own to be holy in God's sight. It was like a mirror to show us how "dirty" we are, but you cannot use it to wash away the "dirt. The Law was a schoolmaster" preparing us for Christ's coming. (Gal. 3:23,24; Heb. 10:1-18). Then how was someone in the Old Testament saved? By faith then as by faith today! (Ex. 15:6; Rom. 10:9,10). Of course no person could keep the Law except Jesus Christ who fulfilled it. Thus, Christ is superior to the feasts and Law and is a superior sacrifice and High Priest. Sabbaths. These seven feasts were all declared by God to be "Sabbaths" in their own right. The significance of this is that the Sabbath represents and commemorates two things that only God can do: (1) Creation (2) Redemption These are the same two reasons the Messiah, Jesus Christ, is worshipped in Revelation 4 and 5! The Bible tells us that Jesus Christ is not only the "Lord of the Sabbath", but Himself is a "Sabbath rest" (see Hebrews 4:9,10). Also, note that the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. (see Mark 2:27,28). In relationship to the New Covenant, the seven Jewish festivals are but a "shadow" or "symbol" of the things which are or will be, but Jesus Christ, Yehshua Hamashiach, is the substance and express image of these things. 1 The Mosaic Law was a conditional covenant and consisted of three parts or divisions: (I) Commandments... personal life (Exodus 20:1-26) (II) Judgments... social life (Exodus 21:1-24:11) (III) Ordinances... religious life (Exodus 24:12-31:18) Klaus Schiessel 1
Colossians 2:16-17 says, 'Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of things that were to come, the reality however is found in Christ". Seven points to remember in studying the Feasts are: 1) They are a part of the Mosaic Law or Convenant and therefore conditional 2) There are 7 feasts signifying the fact of completedness, 3) It was by faith that these feasts were observed 4) They make up the Jewish religious year or calendar. 5) Each feast carries a significance much greater than just a ritual 6) The purpose of the sacrifices was a foreshadowing of Messiah -- His Character & Purpose 7) The elements used in the feasts have spiritual meanings: a) leaven (impurity, imperfection, evil, sin) b) unleavened (purity, perfection, good) c) oil (Holy Spirit) d) fine meal (Christ's humility) e) burnt offering (Christ's sacrifice) The Seven Jewish Feasts Demonstrate, Remind and Reveal. (I.) These festivals demonstrate the attributes of God. (A) God's Provision: God is all that we need. (B) God's Presence: God dwells among us. (C) God's Plan: God has a plan for the future. (D) God's Propitiation: God has made an atoning sacrifice for our salvation. (II.) These festivals remind us of our relationship to God. (A) Our responsibility & accountability to God (B) Our physical lives depend on God's creation (C) The ongoing involvement of God in the lives of people (III.) These festivals reveal several things about the character & mission of the Messiah (A) He is the Redeemer (B) He is Righteous (C) He is the Resurrection & Life (D) He brings Renewal through the Holy Spirit (E) He Regathers that which is scattered. (F) He calls people to Repentance & Restores them to himself (G) He gives Rest & causes his saints to Rejoice Klaus Schiessel 2
Chapter 23 of Leviticus starts out by saying: Leviticus 23:1-4, 24: 1 And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, 2 "Speak to the children of Israel, and say to them: 'The feasts of the LORD, which you shall proclaim to be holy convocations, these are My feasts. 3 'Six days shall work be done, but the seventh day is a Sabbath of solemn rest, a holy convocation. You shall do no work on it; it is the Sabbath of the LORD in all your dwellings. 4 'These are the feasts of the LORD, holy convocations which you shall proclaim at their appointed times. 24 "Speak to the children of Israel, saying: 'In the seventh month, on the first day of the month, you shall have a Sabbath rest, a memorial of blowing of trumpets, a holy convocation. (NKJ) There are three important words to note in this passage to help us understand the nature of all seven of these feasts and they are defined below: feast or season: [Heb. mowed` (mo-ade')] "an appointment" --- a summons by a superior person convocation: [Heb. miqra' (mik-raw')] "a rehearsal " --- practice to get ready for the real thing memorial: [Heb. zikrown (zik-rone')] "a reminder" --- something to help us remember The first three of these feasts were celebrated in spring March-April, the fourth in May-June and the last three were fall feasts celebrated in September-October. The first three feasts were celebrated in the first month of the religious calendar, while the last three occurred in the seventh month but the first month of the civil calendar. That is, the Feast of Trumpets ushered in a New Year for Israel! Note that the entire planting, growing and harvesting season is represented by all seven of these feasts. Klaus Schiessel 3
Passover [ Redemption ] I. Leviticus 23:4,5 A) Redemption by blood is the basic theme throughout the Bible. This was and still is an unconditional covenant. We can see this from Genesis 3:14-21 and 9:4 all the way to Revelation 1:5,7:14, 19:13. B) The importance of blood can be seen in Leviticus 17:11-14 and Hebrews 9:16-28. C) The first Passover was during Israel's exodus out of Egypt. By faith was blood applied to the doorposts and by believing those who were inside were saved from the Lord's Judgment. This feast became a memorial for the redemption from bondage. (Exodus 12:1-28). It looked forward to the time that Christ would come and by His blood cleanse us and redeem us. (See [E] below). D) The Feast of Passover took place on the 14th of the first month, Nisan (March-April), signifying the beginning of the religious year. Note: The Civil year began with the feast of Trumpets on the 1 st day of the 7th month, Tishri ( September-0ctober). E) The Last Supper Jesus shared with His disciples was a Passover meal and was given new significance: (See Matt. 26:26-28; Luke 22:7-20; John 19:34 and 1 Corinth. 11:23-26). F) The Passover Feast foreshadowed Christ's crucifixion. Study closely the requirements of the burnt offering sacrifice in Leviticus 22:17-25. Unleavened Bread [ Righteousness ] II. Leviticus 23:6-8 A.) Took place during the week Nisan 15-22, thus it began one day after the Passover. B.) Only unleavened bread was to be eaten during this feast. This observance speaks of the complete purity of the sacrifice for Passover. C.) The Feast of Unleavened Bread foreshadowed the holy, pure, and perfect character of Christ, (1 Cor. 5:7,8; Heb. 9:11-15; 1 Pet. 1:18,19). III. Leviticus 23:9-24 First Fruits [ Resurrection ] A.) The Feast of First. Fruits took place on the 16th of Nisan. It therefore came two days after the Passover. The sheaf consisted of barley since this feast took place early in the harvest season and the barley was the first grain to ripen. B.) Again notice in verse 12 that a male lamb without blemish is to be offered. This points to Christ's sacrifice which was one offering for sin forever (Heb. 7:23-28). Because the Old Testament sacrifices could only cover sins but not remove them (Heb. 10:1-10). We will study this more when we get to the Day of Atonement. In verse 13 Jesus' character is once more given in the use of the meal offering made with fine flour. This speaks of His servitude, obedience and purity (Phil. 2:5-8), Also notice that this meal offering is to be mixed with oil signifying the fact that Christ was anointed and anoints with the Holy Spirit or Comforter (John 14:15-17,26). The drink offering was grape juice symbolizing the blood that was to be given for the remission of sins. Klaus Schiessel 4
In verse 14 we are told that this feast will be a statute forever "throughout your generations". What this means is that the feasts will become a memorial during the millennium period. (Ex. 12:24; Lev. 23:21, 24,31, 41). This is a type of remembrance such as we have the Lord Jesus Christ instituting during the Last Supper, Matt. 26:26-29 and 1 Cor. 11:23-26. The reason we as Christians (Jews and Gentiles) do not need to keep the feasts is given in Galatians 3:19-29, 4:1-5; Heb. 9:1-10; and Rom. 8:1-17. C.) In verses 10 and 11 the first fruits refer to a "raising up" in new life. When this is taken together in context with 1 Corinthians 15:20-26 we see that Christ was the first fruits of them who have died (slept. This refers to His resurrection. We know that the sheaf or bundle of grain signified more than one and in Matthew 27:52,53 we see that many believers were resurrected after Christ's resurrection and "appeared unto many". Thus, we have a complete picture of Jesus' resurrection. D.) The Feast of First Fruits foreshadows Christ's resurrection. Feast of Weeks (Pentecost) [ Renewal ] IV. Leviticus 23:15-22 A.) In verses 15 and 16 we read that 7 Sabbaths (7 weeks) are to be counted from the "next day after the Sabbath". This Sabbath was the day that the Feast of Unleavened Bread began, 15 th Nisan. So we have 7 Sabbaths = 49 days plus an additional day (v. 16) to make a total of 50 days from the 15 th of Nisan. Since the Jewish calendar was based on the lunar cycle of 30 days = 1 month this would have been 6 th of Sivan (May-June). B.) From Acts 1:1-12; 2:l-4 we see that 50 days after Christ's resurrection the Holy Spirit was for the first time given to indwell the believer, (We already know that it was possible for a person to be filled with the Holy Spirit before this time. Many references to this are found in the O.T. See also John 20:21,22. So we can see that the Feast of Weeks or Pentecost prefigured the time when the Church was first formed through the power of the Holy Spirit. C.) In verse 17 the offering of wave loaves are to be of fine flour but baked with leaven. These are to be the "first fruits" to the Lord. The significance of this offering is that it was Christ who was responsible for the Church and through the Holy Spirit it was formed into one Body. (fine meal & wave loaf). Also, it is no longer many members, the sheaf in v.11, but one unified Body; the wave loaf in v.17. We become (through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit) part of Christ's Body, the Church. 1 Cor, 12:12,13,27; Eph. 5:25,29,30; Col. 1:18. However, this offering was sacrificed with leaven and this speaks of the fact that there is still sin in the Church since the believers are constantly at war with the flesh, Romans 7:7-25. Only in Christ, conforming to His image are we "perfected", that is "made complete". (see Romans 8:1-4). The wave loaf baked with leaven is called the "first fruits to the Lord" and we see that this offering is a picture of the first believers forming the Church as "first Fruits". See Romans 8:22-25,28,29. D.) The Feast of Weeks (Pentecost) is a foreshadowing of the formation of the Church through the power of the Holy Spirit. E.) Notice that Christ's sacrifice is recalled (for the forming of the Church) in verses 18-20. We see again in verse 21 that this is to become a memorial, something to help remember, a statute forever. Klaus Schiessel 5
Intermediate Period There is an interim period of about 4 months between the Feast of Weeks (Pentecost) in the third month and the next feast in the seventh month of Tishri (September-October). This period of time foreshadows the Church age. This is the age of Grace; when a person is saved by grace through faith. See Romans 5:20,21 and Ephesians 2:8. It was a "mystery" hidden from men as we can see by reading 1 Corinthians 2:7,8 and Ephesians 3:1-6. The Church age period that was to come was elaborated on by Jesus in Matthew chapter 13 in the parables on the mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven. We know that the foreshadowings of the first four feasts have been fulfilled, and on the day it was celebrated! The, next event in God's prophetic plan for the Church is the translation or Rapture. This was also part of the "mystery" of the Church; 1 Corinthians 15:51-53. We will see then that the last three feasts, the "fall feasts", are yet in the future concerning their foreshadowings. These feasts deal prophetically and primarily with the state of Israel in the "Day of the Lord". Klaus Schiessel 6
Feast of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah or Yom Teruah) [ Regathering ] V. Leviticus 23:23-25 A.) The Feast of Trumpets, or Feast of Horn Blowing, took place on the 1 st day of the 7th month (Tishri) and it ushered in the completion of all the feasts. It is also known as Rosh Hashanah. It was to be a "holy convocation" or Sabbath and associated with a memorial blowing of trumpets. This month also began the Jewish Civil Year. B.) In verse 25 we find that no servile work was to be done since this was as a Sabbath. An offering made by fire to the LORD (Jehovah) was to be made during this feast. The specifics of this sacrifice can be found in Numbers 29:1-6. C.) The importance of trumpets is to be found in scripture itself e,g Joshua 6:1-24; Isaiah 27:12,13; Joel 2:1,15; Jeremiah 4:4-6; 6:1,17 and Revelation 1:10,11; 8:2-9:21; 11:15-19. We see that the trumpets and the blowing of them signifies Divine Announcement or Judgment. Thus, the Feast of Trumpets is announcing something and/or judging something and we now want to find out what it is. D.) Trumpets For Israel: (1) In Ezekiel 37:11-14, 21 we learn that a future redemption of Israel is to take place through the power of God in "raising" up the people into a nation. From Ezekiel 39:25-28 and Daniel 9:27, 12:1 we see that this occurs just prior to and during the 7 year tribulation period. (2) In Isaiah 18:1-3,7 we read that there will be a gathering back of God's chosen people which He has scattered over the earth (v.7) associated by a trumpet (v.3). Also in Isaiah 27:12,13 we see that Israel is to be regathered one by one in that day when the great trumpet" shall be blown. (3) In Joel 2:1,2,15-17; 3:1,2 a blowing of trumpets is associated with the Day of the LORD which begins with the 7 year tribulation period. This is when God redeems His people, in the sense that He fights and judges for Israel against the Nations. E.) Thus, a future regathering and national redemption far Israel will be ushered in at the beginning of the Tribulation period. This is all related to the Feast of Trumpets. F.) Trumpets for the Church (1) We have already seen how the first 4 feasts foreshadowed something of Christ's work: a) Passover -- Christ's crucifixion b) First Fruits -- Christ's resurrection c) Weeks -- Christ giving the Holy Spirit d) Unleavened Bread -- Christ's character. The evidence is that the Feast of Trumpets also foreshadows something of Christ's work. We now want to look at what trumpets are associated with in the New Testament. Klaus Schiessel 7
(2) We recall that in Numbers 29:1-6 the details of the offering for this feast are given. It as a burnt offering ((Christ s sacrifice); it included 7 lambs without blemish, a meal offering mixed with oil, and a drink offering of new wine. We have in this offering the character of Jesus Christ completely described. The Messiah is again prominent in this feast. (3) In 1 Corinthians 15;51-53; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17 and Revelation 4:1, 2 we learn that trumpets are connected with the translation or "rapture" of the true Church This is the "redemption of our bodies talked about in Romans 8:18-23 and this takes place before the Tribulation period (last 7 years before the Millennium reign of the Messiah). Just as Israel is gathered to the LORD with this trumpet, so also will the Church be gathered to Christ. G.) The Feast of Trumpets announces the completion of God's plan for Israel and the Church. Thus, it is foreshadowing the future regathering and national redemption of Israel and at the same time as the Rapture of the Church 2. Review : The theme of Leviticus is Holiness. It looks forward to Salvation and Sanctification in Christ. It outlines God's plan for mankind in Christ from the "foundation of the world", 3 R's : Redemption - Repentance - Rest 2 One might argue against such an interpretation, which assigns the actual day of the Translation of the Church to the day the Feast of Trumpets is observed, based on what Jesus said about the timing of His Second Coming. For example: But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only [Matt. 24:36]; Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming [Matt. 25:13]. However, these comments relate prophetically to the Jews at the end of the Great Tribulation (Jacob s Trouble) period, a time which will come upon an unbelieving world... as a thief in the night. Jesus also was talking to the disciples about the time of restoring the Kingdom to Israel in Acts 1:7; He said to them: It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. Nevertheless, the answer to this objection is found in the very nature of the Feast of Trumpets itself. This feast began the Jewish civil New Year and was ushered in by the new moon the determination of which has a built-in uncertainty about it. As the festivals, according to the Mosaic law, were always to be celebrated on the same day of the month, it was necessary to fix the commencement of the month. This was determined by the appearance of the new moon; for the new moon was reckoned not by astronomical calculation, but by actual personal observation. On the thirtieth day of the month watchmen were placed on commanding heights around Jerusalem to watch the sky. As soon as each of them detected the moon he hastened to a house in the city kept for this purpose and was there examined by the president of the Sanhedrin. When the evidence of the appearance was deemed satisfactory, the president stood up and formally announced it, uttering the words, "It is consecrated." The information was immediately sent throughout the land from the Mount of Olives by beacon fires on the tops of the hills. The religious observance of the day of the new moon may plainly be regarded as the consecration of a natural division of time. Therefore, actual day of the Feast of Trumpets is somewhat uncertain. Klaus Schiessel 8
Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) [ Repentance & Restoration ] VI. Leviticus 23:26-32 A.) The Day of Atonement took place on the 10 th day of the seventh month (Tishri) and is also known as Yom Kippur". It was the only day of the year that the High Priest was allowed to enter the Holy Of Holies", (See Leviticus 16:2 and Hebrews 10:7) This day is the highest holy day on the Jewish religious calendar. B.) A Sacrifice makes possible Repentance: (1) In verse 27 we read that the sacrifice is "an offering made by fire to the LORD". The details of this offering are given in Numbers 29:7-11: a) Burnt offering -- 1 young bullock, 1 ram, 7 lambs without blemish. b) Meal offering -- fine flour mixed with oil. c) Sin offering -- 1 kid of the goats. d) Drink offering - oil and wine. This offering speaks perfectly of Jesus Christ, our High Priest, who entered the "Holy of Holies" to offer Himself a holy sacrifice with His own blood once for all. That we might have salvation and eternal life -- Hebrews 9:8-15. (2) Notice also that this was a day for the people to "afflict their souls" or deny themselves. In other words, repentance & fasting. This is stated again in verses 28 and 32. C.) In verses 27,28, and 32 we see that this day is to be a "holy convocation", a "Sabbath of rest". The people are to do no manner of work during; this day. It is a day set-apart or sanctified. D.) In verses 29 and 30 we read of the results of divine judgment upon Israel. (under the Law) for disobedience to the two commands of repentance (affliction of soul) and rest (Sabbath). Under Grace the 2 terms, "cut-off" and "destroy" could be compared to successive states in a carnal Christian's life: First being out of fellowship with God so that He no longer answers prayer and God has to chastise him. Second, continual rebellion against God's Will to commit the "sin unto death (physical) as in 1 John 5:16,17. Throughout all this however, the Christian never loses his salvation which is a free gift accepted by him. See Romans 5:15-21. Compare John 15:1-8 with 1 Corinthians 3:11-17. Verse 31 tells us this feast is to be a statute forever, in all the Jews generations and dwellings, and looks forward to the Millennium reign of the Messiah. E.) The Purpose and Significance of the Day of Atonement. (1) The Holy of Holies represents God's throne and His Holy Presence, The Holy of Holies was located in the inner-most room of the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem. A curtain or "veil" separated this inner sanctuary from the Holy of Holies and symbolized the separation between God and man because of sin. This veil was supernaturally torn in half the moment Jesus Christ completed and perfected His work of salvation on the Cross, See Matthew 27:50.51; Mark 15:37, 38; and John 19:30. Klaus Schiessel 9
Christ's sacrifice made clear the way to fellowship with a Holy God. As Christians we can freely into God's Holy presence through the privilege of prayer and receive all the joys and blessings resulting from Jesus Christ's sacrifice. Read Hebrews 9:l6-28 and 10:19-22. (2) God's presence or "shekinah" Glory was manifested visibly as a cloud in the Holy of Holies on the mercy seat, between the cherubim which covered the Ark of the Covenant. See Exodus 40:38-38; Ezekiel 9:3; 10:4,18,19 and 1 Kings 8:9-11. The account of when and how God's Glory eventually left the Temple is found in Ezekiel chapters 9 and 10. (3) A repentant heart and spirit was required for entrance into the Holy of Holies. For the Christian today it is an offering of body, soul and spirit to the Lord made possible by His sacrifice. (4) It is very important for the Jews (as it is for Christians today) to know: a) We have sin and need to repent. b) We have cleansing and salvation through the shed blood of Jesus Christ. (see 1 John 1:8-2:2). F.) Leviticus 23 is a summary of all the Jewish feasts and each is more fully described elsewhere in Scripture. The Day of Atonement is explained sacrificially and symbolically in Leviticus 16: sin. v.2> God's Glory upon the mercy seat in the Holy place. v.5> Two kids of goats far a sin offering for Israel. v.6> Aaron to take a bullock for his own sins. This is personal identification with vv.7,8> The lots cast for the goats speak of separation: for the LORD 2 Goats Sin Offering for the scapegoat vv. 9,11> The sin offering for the LORD is slain along with Aaron's bullock. v.10> The sin offering for the scapegoat is presented alive before the LORD and then released into the wilderness. G.) The Significance of These Goats. (1) Slain Goat -- Lev. 16:14-16 (sin offering for the LORD) a) the goat is killed -- Judgment of Sin b) blood is shed and sprinkled on the mercy seat --Cleansing and Forgiveness of sin through the shedding blood. (See Hebrews 9:19-22). (2) Live Goat -- Lev. 16:20-22 (sin offering for the scapegoat) a) sins confessed -- repentance b) sins carried away by the goat forgiveness Klaus Schiessel 10
(3) Holiness is involved -- Leviticus 16:24,26,28. No one can enter into God's holy presence and fellowship with Him unless he is also holy. Our sins are washed in the blood of Christ, we put an His righteousness and are made holy. See Hebrews 10:18-22 and Revelation 1:5,6. (4) Importance of this Feast: a) v.29> statute forever, 10 th day of seventh month; affliction of one's soul (repentance & fasting), no work to be done (rest). v.30> atonement for sin, cleansing from sin. v.31> holy day of Rest (Sabbath) and Repentance. vv,32-34> atonement for all of Israel's sins, once a year (it was not permanent forgiveness). This was an everlasting statute looking ahead to the millennium Kingdom. b.) Remember, this all occurs in the Holy of Holies and only once during the year. It is performed only by the High Priest. Today we are blessed with mercy and grace because Jesus Christ is our High Priest for He has entered once and for all the Holy of Holies to sanctify us. (see Hebrews 4:14-16; 9:7,11; and 10:10). H.) What the Two Goats Foreshadowed: (1) Slain Goat - Christ died on the Cross to accomplish His work of Atonement (Salvation). John 19:32-34.,,,"the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world" Rev. 13:8. a) the Judgment for Sin is death -- Romans 6:23a. b) Christ's death was the judgment for our sin -- Romans 5:6-8. c) Jesus Christ's shed blood forgives us our sin and gives to us Salvation. Romans 5:9-11 and 3:23-25. (2) Scapegoat -- Christ removed our sins..."as far as the east is from the west..." Psalms 103:12. He was..."the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." -- John 1:29. a.) the Forgiveness of sin is Eternal Life -- Romans 6:23b. b.) that God raised Jesus Christ in resurrection shows His sacrifice was perfect. Acts 17:31; Ephesians 1:19,20; Philipians 2:7-11 and Hebrews 12:2; 2 Corinthians 13:4. c.) through Christ's resurrection we as Christians are sanctified. 1 Corinthians 6:11: Hebrews 2:10,11 and 10:10. (3) Applications to Christian Life: a.) as Christians we are dead with Christ and alive in Christ Romans 6:3,4 and Galatians 2=20. b.) we are crucified and "raised through Jesus Christ. -- Romans 6:5-11. c.) complete identification with Christ in "burial" and "resurrection" leads to victorious Christian living. The world and sin are "dead" to us and we are made "alive" to righteousness. Romans 8:9-11; Philipians 3:10-14 and Colossians 3:1;17. Klaus Schiessel 11
d.) Jesus Christ's resurrection makes it possible for us to someday be like Him and be where He is. John 6:39, 40, 44; 1 Cor. 15:20-23; 2 Cor. 4:14; Rom, 10:9,10; Phil. 3:20, 21; Col. 3:4 and 1 John 3:1.2. e.) through Jesus Christ's death and resurrection, we are "born again" into a "new creation" by believing and trusting in Him. 2 Cor. 5:14-17; Ephesians 4:20-24; Colossians 3:10. I.) Explanation of the Word "Atonement". (1) Old Testament Atonement - not a translation of the Hebrew word used. The actual Hebrew word means "to cover". Hebrew "kphr" or "kaphar" Ex. 29:33. Thus, the peoples' sin was "covered" but not "paid for" -- Hebrews 10:1-10. (2) New Testament Atonement - The finished Work of Christ, of which the sacrifice and offerings foreshadowed. See Hebrews 9:1-10 for the foreshadowings and Hebrews 9:11-15 for the fulfillment. (3) The word "atonement" is the English word we use to translate both scriptural meanings: "to cover for sins" in the O.T. and "to pay in full" in the NT. J.) What does the Day Of Atonement look Forward To? In Ezekiel chapters 37 and 39 and in Joel 2 we can read about Israel's future regathering. What happens after this? Referring back to the same scriptures we can see that "national" repentance follows "national" regathering, First, the Feast of Trumpets, second the Day Of Atonement. (1) Ezekiel 39:21-29 - repentance., (vv. 26,28) (2) Joel 2=12-14,21-27. - repentance. (3) At Jesus Christ's 2nd Advent a "fountain of living water will be opened "for sin and uncleanness" -- Zechariah 13:1. This will be during the Millennium reign of the Lord Jesus Christ -- Revelation 21:6,7; 22:1,2 and 22:16,17. This will be specifically for the "house of David" and "the inhabitants of Jerusalem" Historically, when Jesus was crucified and resurrected the "fountain" was opened. But it was rejected by the Jews and we will see that for Israel it is yet future (Romans 11). Here we get a glimpse of the position of the Jewish remnant and Gentile survivors, after the Tribulation period, during the Millennium. Today, Jesus Christ offers the fountain of "living waters for the cleansing of Sin, (see John 4:10-14). K.) We see then that Israel's regathering (redemption) and repentance are preparatory for the Messiah, Jesus Christ, in coming to earth in glory and power to set up the Millennial Kingdom. (For a more complete "picture", read Zechariah 14 and Revelation 19-21.) The Day of Atonement is the Jewish feast which looks forward to the day of repentance of the Remnant of Israel after their regathering out of the Nations. This will be preparatory to the 2nd Advent of the Messiah to establish His Kingdom on the earth! Klaus Schiessel 12
Review: Feasts in the seventh month of Tishri: 1.) Feast of Trumpets (1, Tishri) -- Regathering (Rapture for Church, Jacob s Trouble) 2.) Day of Atonement (10, Tishri) -- Repentance & Restoration of Israel VII. Leviticus 23:33-44 Feast Of Tabernacles (Sukkot) [ Rest & Rejoicing ] A.) The Feast of Tabernacles took place on the 15th day of the seventh month (Tishri) and lasted for 1 week. Seven days of offering by fire were to be made to the LORD (Jehovah), vv. 34-36. Special requirements and order for the sacrifices are given in Numbers 29:12-39. (1) No servile work was to be done which typifies rest. The 1 st and 8 th day of this Feast was declared a "Holy Convocation" or Holy Rehearsal. The first and last days of this Feast were declared "Sabbaths". (vv. 35, 36, 39). (2) The people were to rejoice before the LORD all 8 days of the festival. (v. 40). (3) The Feast of Tabernacles was to be a statute forever, a memorial, something to help people remember forever. (v.41). (4) For 7 days all who are born Israelites were to dwell in booths or tents. These booths or huts were made out of the branches of trees. This Feast was to be observed in remembrance of when the LORD God brought the children of Israel out of Egypt and caused them to dwell in tents (booths) in the wilderness. (vv, 42,43). B.) The 1 st Feast (Passover) is a memorial looking back to the time when God brought Israel out of Egypt, The 7 th Feast (Tabernacles) is a memorial looking forward to the time when God gives Israel complete Rest in the promised land" during the millennium Kingdom Age. This will be a time of great Rejoicing. (see Isaiah 2:1-4; 11:1-12; Ezekiel 39:25-29; Amos 9:11-15; Micah 4:1-8; Zephaniah 3:14-20; Zechariah 14:16-21; and Revelation 21:1-8, 22:1-5). C.) The First and Last Feasts (Passover and Tabernacles) depict and foreshadow the time when God redeemed individuals from sin, the world and the power of Satan. ( see Romans 3:21-26; Colossians 1:14; and 1 John 2:1, 2, 15-17) and reconciled them to Himself in complete Rest in Jesus Christ. (see Matthew 11:28-30; 2 Cor, 5:18-21; Ephesians 2:11-18; Col. 1:20 and Heb. 4:9-11). Those who have trusted Christ as Savior are "dead", i,e, separated, from sin and the world, The body of sin has been rendered inoperative ("destroyed ) that we might live to God. (see Rom. 6:1-13) The Christian's life is hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:3). (1) The "born again" Christian has been redeemed out of the bondage of a World of Spiritual Darkness and come into the World of Spiritual Light in Jesus Christ. (see John 1:3-14; Colossians 1:9-14; and 1 John 1:5-7). (2) The Christian has been Redeemed by Jesus Christ, Renewed by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:13; Ephesians 1:13, 2:11-13, 4:30) and Resting in God in Jesus Christ ( see Colossians 2:9-13; Hebrews 4:9-16 and Revelation 1:5,6). (3) A Christian's "Promised Land" is his or her new life in Jesus Christ. (see 2 Corinthians 5:14-17; Colossians 3:8-15; and Ephesians 2:l-10; 4:20-24). Klaus Schiessel 13
(I.) REST D.) The Feast of Tabernacles is a foreshadowing of the yet future Rest & Rejoicing Israel (and the World) will experience during the Millennium Reign of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, on the earth ("Kingdom Age") seated on the throne of David. Historical and Prophetical Rest A.) Historically: God's creation was completed and He (God; "Jehovah") rested on the seventh day from all the work which He made. Genesis 2:1-3. In v. 4 God gives a blessing to the 7 th day and sanctifies it. This is the Sabbath" or intermission of rest. (1) To "sanctify" means "to set apart" or "to make holy for God's use. This is what Christ Jesus does for every believer resting in Christ's completed work, Hebrews 4:9-16. (2) Deity: The word for God used in Genesis 2:3 is the Hebrew word Jehovah and in English translations of the Bible usually written LORD all in capital letters, This is significant because here is the first time in the Bible this word for God is used. What does this mean? In Genesis 1:1 the word Elohim is used for God. This is a Hebrew plural noun and contains the fact of the Trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Now, in Genesis 2:3, after man's creation, God is revealed as Jehovah; the self-existent one". Literally, "He that Is Who He Is", the eternal I Am" in Exodus 3:14 and in John 8:58. The name stresses the Holiness of God and the Redemption in God. Taking all Scripture together, Jehovah is the Redemption name for God. a) It was the LORD God, Jehovah Elohim, that provided the coats of skins (a type of Christ) for fallen man, Genesis 3:21. This points to Christ as our redeemer lamb through the shedding of blood: Ephesians l:7 and 1 Peter 1:13-21. b) It was the LORD, "Jehovah", who brought Israel out of Egypt and points to the Messiah, Christ Jesus, of Israel: Exodus 14:13,14, 26-31 and John 4:23-26. "JEHOVAH" is in fact the 'Redemptive' name of God and stresses: (i) The Holiness & Uniqueness of God (ii) The Redemption of God c) It was the "LORD God", Jehovah Elohim that provided the coats of animal skins (a type of Christ) to 'cover' the sin of fallen man. This points to Christ as our redeemer through the shedding of blood. d) It was the LORD, Jehovah, that brought Israel out of Egypt and represents the Messiah, Christ Jesus, bringing us out of the "world". (3) In Genesis 15:2 the word Lord or Adonai, in Hebrew, is used during the call of Abraham. This name for God means, "master" and it is sometimes used to refer to man. In the Bible, this distinction is made by using a capital "L" or a lowercase "l" when referring to God or man, respectively. This name stresses: a) Master-Servant or Husband-Bride relationship between God and man. b) obedience to God c) the blessing found in serving God Klaus Schiessel 14
(4) There are many compound names for God used in the Bible utilizing the three primary names for God; Elohim, Jehovah and Adonai. a) El Shaddai --- Almighty God b) El Elyon --- Most High or Most High God c) El Olam --- Everlasting God d) El Gibbor --- Mighty God e) Jehovah Elohim --- LORD God f) Adonai Jehovah --- Lord GOD g) Jehovah Sabaoth --- LORD of Hosts Each name for God appears in scriptural context by design, stressing the respective characteristics of God, important for understanding the passage. (5) In Genesis 2:3 the name Elohim is used, stressing the creative power of God. In Genesis 2:4 the name LORD God (Jehovah Elohim) is used stressing the holiness and redemptive power of God. Note that this compound name for God is related to Rest and Sanctification such as we have in Christ. See Hebrews 4:9-12. (6) Examples of Rest. a) Every 7 th day was to be a day of rest, a Sabbath, as a memorial to God resting on the 7th day. Not because He was tired, but because He was finished! b) Every 7 th year was to be year of rest for the land, no sowing or reaping. c) After every 7 groups of 7 years + 1 year or every 50 th year was called a Year of Jubilee. This was a year of rest and restoration for both the people and the land. No sowing or reaping was to be done. Notice the provision for faith in Leviticus 25:20-24. The land will not be sold forever (v. 23), it is God's and Christ will someday return to redeem and restore it. (Romans 8:18-23; 2 Peter 3:10-14; 1 Corinthians 15:20-28; Revelation 21:l-7). Christ will rule over creation. Klaus Schiessel 15
B.) Prophetically: (Future Rest) (1) The Transfiguration -- Luke 9:27-37 Peter, James and John were blessed by seeing Jesus as He will appear during the millennium, in power and glory. In verse 33 (the "booths") we see the event of the transfiguration is associated with the Feast of Tabernacles. (a) Moses and Elijah appear in glorified form with Jesus. Moses died, Elijah was translated into heaven. (b) Moses represents the glorified believers who passed through death onto resurrection. (c) Elijah represents the glorified believers who are "caught up" to the Lord in resurrection. (d) Peter, James and John represent the believing Jewish remnant unglorified during the millennium Kingdom in special blessing. (e) The multitude (at the bottom of the hill) represent the survivors of the tribulation period that will be carried over into the millennium Kingdom. (see Matthew 16:27,28). (2) Conditions during the Millennium: (a) Isaiah 11:1-12; 45:5-18,25; 59:16-21. The Messiah's rule, conditions in nature, regathering and restoration -- salvation. (b) Isaiah 12. Attitude of the Jewish remnant. See also Ezekiel 39:21-29. (c) Romans 11:1-32. Israel in perspective. (d) Description of the Return of the King, Christ Jesus, and the general conditions during the millennium. (i) Daniel 2:44,45 (ii) Isaiah 65:17-25 (iii) Zechariah 14 (iv) Revelation 19:11-16; 20:1-6 (3) After the Millennium - Then What? The "Day of God" (a) Isaiah 66:22-24 (b) 1 Corinthians 15:20-28 (c) 2 Peter 3:12 (d) Revelation 20:7-15; 21:1-8; 22:1-5 (4) Last message of the Bible, God's Word, given by Jesus Christ: Revelation 22:6-21 Klaus Schiessel 16
THE SEVEN JEWISH FEASTS AT A GLANCE Passover [14] Unleavened Bread [15-22] First Fruits [16] Weeks or Pentecost [6] Trumpets [1] Day Of Atonement [10] Tabernacles [15-22] SHEBAT ADAR NISAN ZIV SIVAN TAMMUZ AB ELUL TISHRI BUL CHISLEV TEBETH January February March April May June July August September October November December January FEAST DATE THEME PROPHETIC SIGNIFICANCE FEAST DATE THEME PROPHETIC SIGNIFICANCE Passover NISAN 14 Redemption Messiah s Death/Crucifixion Passover NISAN 14 Redemption Messiah s Death/Crucifixion Unleavened Bread NISAN 15-22 Righteousness Messiah s Sacrificial Character Unleavened Bread NISAN 15-22 Righteousness Messiah s Sacrificial Character First Fruits NISAN 16 Resurrection Messiah s Resurrection First Fruits NISAN 16 Resurrection Messiah s Resurrection Weeks (Pentecost, Shavuot) SIVAN 6 Renewal Messiah s Body -- The Church Formed Weeks (Pentecost, Shavuot) SIVAN 6 Renewal Messiah s Body -- The Church Formed Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah) TISHRI 1 Regathering Messiah Gathers His Bride -- The Rapure Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah) TISHRI 1 Regathering Messiah Gathers His Bride -- The Rapure Messiah Gathers Israel -- The Tribulation Messiah Gathers Israel -- The Tribulation Atonement (Yom Kippur) TISHRI 10 Repentance & Restoration Messiah Comes To Establish His Kingdom Atonement (Yom Kippur) TISHRI 10 Repentance & Restoration Messiah Comes To Establish His Kingdom Tabernacles (Sukkot) TISHRI 15-22 Rest & Rejoicing Messiah s Reign As King of Kings & Lord of Lords Tabernacles (Sukkot) TISHRI 15-22 Rest & Rejoicing Messiah s Reign As King of Kings & Lord of Lords Klaus Schiessel 17