The Old Testament

The symbols and acts of Passover worship are introduced during the exodus of Israel out of Egypt. This setting firmly plants God's powerful plan of redemption into the course of human history.

The annual Passover observance served a dual purpose:

1. Annual observance was a powerful reminder to Israel that God had rescued them out of hard bondage in Egypt and placed them under his direct rule with all its blessings and requirements
2. The Passover symbols announced in advance the work of Jesus Christ who rescues us from our hard bondage to sin and places us under His direct rule within the family of God.

The New Testament

The symbols and acts of Passover are continued and modified by Jesus to reflect the personal spiritual salvation of Christians and the meaning of Jesus' sacrifice.

The annual observance serves a similar purpose for us as it did for Israel:

1. As Jesus directed we are to keep the passover each year in remembrance of Him until his return. By observing the Passover annually we are reminded of His sacrifice, what it makes possible for us and what it requires of us.
2. The Passover symbols announce in advance the path that all people must follow to enter into the family of God

Key scriptural references from the New Testament: Matthew 26:26, Mark 14:22-24, Luke 22:19-20, John 13:1-5, I Corinthians 11:20-34, John 6:53-55

Who Should Participate

In the Old Testament only full-fledged (i.e. circumcised) members of the nation of Israel were allowed to participate. It is important to realize that membership in the nation of Israel was not limited by racial ancestry. Anyone who wanted to become a part of this nation under God could if they were willing to be circumcised. From the very beginning a mixed multitude of people accompanied Israel in their flight from Egypt some of whom were brought into the fold. Exodus 12:43-44

The New Testament Passover is meant for full-fledged members of the body of Christ also known as "the Church". This inclusion comes not through the outward sign of circumcision of the flesh but through baptism and receipt of the Holy Spirit. The baptism of the New Testament replaces the circumcision of the Old Testament and takes on its role as a ritual act that signifies inclusion. Colossians 2:11-12 

Inclusion in the body of Christ and the family of God is freely open to all mankind. Romans 2:28-29, Galatians 3:26-29