Why Was Jesus Not Crucified as Passover Began? (Part One)
'Ready Answer' by David C. GrabbeThe gospels show Jesus observing the Passover at the beginning of the 14th. Should we use the time when He observed it or the time He died as our guide?
Is Passover on the First Day of Unleavened Bread? (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeJesus and His disciples are shown observing the Passover in a home at the beginning of Abib/Nisan 14. However, a few verses seem to indicate the next day.
Is Passover on the First Day of Unleavened Bread? (Part One)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeMatthew, Mark, and Luke each seem to put Passover on the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, but a closer look reveals the consistency of Scripture.
Deuteronomy 16, Passover, and the Night to be Much Observed
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughIn Deuteronomy 16:1, the word 'Passover' is out of context. It applies to the whole season, including the Night to be Much Observed and the Days of Unleavened Bread.
Passover and Friends United in Truth (Part One)
CGG Weekly by Mark SchindlerOut of the entire world, we have been chosen now to develop friendship, not with the world, but with those placed in the love and friendship of the Body of Christ.
Passover: An Extraordinary Peace Offering
Sermon by David C. GrabbeThe Passover sacrifice is basically unconnected with atonement, but represents the peace and security which attends fellowship with God because of His acceptance.
Why Wasn't Jesus Christ Crucified at the Start of Passover?
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeJesus was crucified late on Abib 14, yet the Passover lambs were to be killed at the beginning of the 14th. The time of Christ's death is highly significant.
Holy Days: Passover
Bible Study by Earl L. HennPassover may be the most important festival ordained by God. Not only does it memorialize Christ's death, it also symbolizes our redemption and the covenant.
Why Was Jesus Not Crucified as Passover Began? (Part Two)
'Ready Answer' by David C. GrabbeThe timing of Christ's crucifixion does not coincide with the Passover, but instead lines up with the covenant God made with Abraham, marking a major fulfillment.
Should Passover Be Observed for Seven Days?
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeThe words in Ezekiel's Millennial vision seem to say that the Passover should be observed for seven days. However, this contradicts other clear scriptures.
Christ, Our Passover
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughMany people believe that our sins are the focus of Passover—but they are wrong! Jesus Christ, the Passover Lamb, should be our focus. How well do you know Him?
Passover and the Blood of Jesus Christ
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeChrist's blood does much more than remit sin; it gives eternal life. The Passover wine represents the blood of the covenant, by which we are made complete.
Passover (Part Nine)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe context of Deuteronomy 16:1-3 indicates the focus of these verses is on the Night to be Observed and the Days of Unleavened Bread rather than the Passover.
Passover (Part Ten)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughAt the time of Christ, because of historical deviation, some kept Passover at home at the start of the 14th and others kept it at the Temple at the end of the 14th.
Passover (Part Five)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughUsing subterfuge, some proponents of the 15th Passover muddle up otherwise clear, day and night issues by surreptitiously inserting modern English language usage.
The Bread and Wine of Passover
Sermon by David C. GrabbeThe Passover reminds us of the New Covenant on the anniversary of the Abrahamic covenant God using the original elements of the meal between Melchizedek and Abraham.
Passover Preparedness
Sermonette by John O. ReidWe are to seriously consider this season, examining ourselves carefully and soberly, measuring ourselves against the sinless life of Jesus Christ.
Jesus' Sufferings on Passover
CGG Weekly by Ronny H. GrahamThe sequence of events that took place on Passover, from Jesus' arrest through His death, was orchestrated so we could appreciate what God did for us.
Passover (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe annual reaffirmation of the covenant through the Passover is at the core of an on-going relationship with the Father and Son, beginning the perfecting process.
Christ Our Passover
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe focus of our self-examination should not be self-centered or comparing ourselves with others, but on the awesome significance of His sacrifice.
Passover (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Passover is to be kept on the twilight of the 14th, while the Feast of Unleavened Bread begins on the 15th. The Word of God supersedes tradition and heritage.
Passover (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughNine steps had to be included with the Passover observance, all within the house until morning. It takes place between sun's setting and complete darkness.
Passover, Obligation, and Love
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughChrist's redemption obligates us to obey and serve Him. We show our gratitude for this priceless gift by doing good in acts of love and service to others.
Passover (Part Eight)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe temple Passover commanded by Hezekiah was a very unusual circumstance in which the king centralized worship to keep Baalism from defiling the Passover.
Passover (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe proponents of a 15th Passover discount clear scriptural details and instead speculate. One cannot build doctrines on implication, distortion, and traditions.
Why Passover and Not Easter?
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Catholic Church did not forbid keeping the Passover until AD 325. The controversy over Passover or Easter boils down to following Scripture or Roman tradition.
A Pre-Passover Look
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe must thoroughly examine ourselves, exercising and strengthening our faith, actively giving love back to God, to avoid taking Passover in a careless manner.
Passover (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughMajor reinterpretations have significantly distorted the meaning of Passover and Unleavened Bread, blurring the distinction between the two events.
Passover (Part Six)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughSome believe in a late-14th Passover on the basis of II Chronicles 35:10-11, but this overlooks the context. The Passover was originally a home-based observance.
Passover of the Most High God
'Ready Answer' by David C. GrabbeAmong God's many titles is one that proclaims His supremacy over all others: 'God Most High.' It provides confidence in God's governance of our lives.
Why We Observe Passover and the Days of Unleavened Bread
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe keep Unleavened Bread because of what God did to bring us out of sin (typified by Egypt). While God compels us to make choices, He is with us all the way.
Passover and Hope
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Passover is a beacon of hope in an otherwise hopeless milieu. Jesus provided hope at His last Passover, exuding confidence despite what lay ahead.
Was Jesus Christ's Body Broken? (Part One)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeHow often have we heard the phrase 'Christ's broken body'? Is it a valid and accurate concept? What effect does it have on our observance of the Passover?
Was Jesus Christ's Body Broken? (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeChrist's bones had to remain unbroken to fulfill the Passover. Additionally, His self-maledictory oath to Abraham required an unseperated—unbroken—body.
I Am Barabbas
Article by StaffTo some, Barabbas is nothing more than an interesting detail in Christ's trial. However, his presence during that event contains significant implications for us.
How Often Should We Partake of the Lord's Supper?
Herbert W. Armstrong BookletThe biblical proof that God's people should keep the Passover (the Lord's Supper), explaining that it occurs annually on the evening of Nisan 14.
Remember Me (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by Ronny H. GrahamIf an unbeliever partakes of the Passover, he will indeed be held accountable due to his unworthiness, but how much more will God hold a believer accountable?
Remember Me (Part One)
CGG Weekly by Ronny H. GrahamFor the most part, Passover is not about us: It is a solemn assembly to remember Jesus Christ and what He has done for us in laying down His life.
Was Jesus Christ's Body Broken?
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeWas Jesus Christ's body actually broken? If so, it would have symbolized disqualification and a broken covenant. Only the bread of Passover was broken.
Was Jesus Christ's Body Broken? (Part Three)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeChrist's body was not broken, and the bread of Passover, broken so it can be shared, is a symbol of being joined to His sinless life rather than death.
Eat in Haste?
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughThe Israelites were to eat the Passover, not in haste, but with serious reflection. The only thing standing between them and death was the blood on the doorpost.
Remember Me
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamGod asks that we use the Passover to bring to remembrance His redemptive act, especially how our sins caused Christ to die in our stead.
Truly Unleavened
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod has imputed righteousness to us as His Children because we are in Christ. Our state before God is unleavened provided we maintain this relationship.
Christ's Death, Resurrection, and Ascension
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughJesus perfectly fulfilled the Old Testament types, slain as the Passover Lamb, resurrected with the cutting of the wavesheaf, and ascended to His Father at the time of the waving of the sheaf.
What Does "Discerning the Lord's Body" Mean? (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeWhen Paul talks about the 'the [Lord's] body' without defining exactly what he means, he does so in the middle of a lengthy discourse on the spiritual Body.
Purge Me With Hyssop
Article by StaffThe Bible frequently uses the hyssop plant as a symbol of cleansing and purification. In relation to Christ's sacrifice, this herb has a connection to the Passover.
The Selfsame Day
Sermonette by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The word 'selfsame' refers to a specific commemorative date. The selfsame day is a signal that God is faithfully in control of time over multiple centuries.
Garden of Gethsemane: The Oil Press
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingThe Garden of Gethsemane has particular significance because it was not only an olive grove, but also the location where olives were pressed into oil.
What Does "Discerning the Lord's Body" Mean? (Part Three)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeThe Corinthians were in danger of eating and drinking judgment to themselves because they were not being partial to Christ's spiritual Body as a whole.
The Signs of God (Part Three)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeGod equates belittling His signs with rejecting Him. The signs of the weekly and annual Sabbaths are emphasized by God, but commonly cast aside by men.
Death of a Lamb
Article by StaffSince the church no longer keeps the Passover with the slaughter of a lamb, we miss important and poignant details that could enhance our observance.
A Look at Christian Suffering (Part One)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeIf we are merely seeking a crown of glory, hoping to skirt by Christ's suffering, we must ask ourselves whether we really accept the Passover cup.
The Awesome Cost of Love
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughWe assess costs and values all the time in our daily lives. We should employ the same process to God's love for us in giving His Son as the sacrifice for sin.
Are You Drinking of the Master's Cup?
Article by StaffWhen we partake of the cup of wine at Passover, we usually think of Christ's blood shed for sins. However, the cup and its contents have another meaning for us.
Never Forget
Sermon by Ryan McClureAfter Adam and Eve sinned, God provided them a vivid introduction to death, perhaps killing an animal in their presence to make tunics for them to wear.
Head 'Em Up and Move 'Em Out!
Article by Mike FordDoes it matter when we keep the Passover as long as we keep it? The logistics of Israel leaving Egypt prove that Passover should be kept on the 14th, not the 15th.
Evaluating the Price of Redemption
CGG Weekly by John O. ReidOf all of God's appointed times, the Passover is one that we should not rush into without thought and preparation, lest we miss the awesome depth of its meaning.
In Honor of Jesus Christ
CGG Weekly by John W. RitenbaughIt is our responsibility to glorify God. As obedient children, we bring Him honor; as disobedient children, we bring shame on Him and blaspheme His name.
Why Did Jesus Have to Die by Crucifixion?
'Ready Answer' by StaffCrucifixion is man's most cruel form of punishment. Why did Jesus need to die this way? What does it teach us? And was Jesus stabbed before or after He died?
How Do We Keep God's Festivals?
'Ready Answer' by Richard T. RitenbaughHere are the foundational principles to keep in mind in observing the Feasts of God throughout the year.
Chronic Difficulties
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughHuman tradition and Bible truth regarding the timing of Christ's crucifixion and resurrection do not square. Here is the overwhelming chronological evidence.
Head 'Em Up and Move 'Em Out!
Sermonette by Mike FordCan 2½ million people (with livestock and possessions) move out of a location (Ramses in Goshen) in five hours?
Fellowship With God
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsOnly those who have fellowship with God can have any hope, understanding, peace, or rest. The world remains under the sway of Satan, unable to live righteously.
The First Day of Unleavened Bread (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughPassover takes place at twilight as the 14th of Abib begins. Unleavened Bread begins 24 hours later on the 15th of Abib. The Passover is a preparation day.
What Does "Discerning the Lord's Body" Mean? (Part One)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeI Corinthians 11:29 says that whoever takes Passover unworthily fails to discern the Lord's body, which is composed of those whom God has called.
The Awesome Cost of Salvation
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe need to be sobered at the awesomeness of the cost to set us free from sin—what the Creator endured. We have been purchased, and are obliged to our Purchaser.
Why Is Atonement a Fall Festival?
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThough Passover and Atonement both deal with Christ's sacrifice, several reasons emerge to make Atonement a better fit for the fall holy days.
An Unpayable Debt and Obligation
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughWhen God calls us and redeems us through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, we suddenly come under obligation—a debt we cannot pay but overshadows all we do.
'After Three Days'
Booklet by Richard T. RitenbaughA scriptural explanation of the time of Christ's death, burial and resurrection, showing that He died on a Wednesday and rose from the dead on the Sabbath.
The Wavesheaf and the Selfsame Day
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe wavesheaf offering is reckoned from the weekly Sabbath within the Days of Unleavened Bread. It had specific requirements that were not met in Joshua 5.
Let Us Examine Ourselves
CGG Weekly by Ronny H. GrahamOnly after we have examined ourselves should we partake of the Passover symbols. Thoroughly examining ourselves should become a way of life.
According to His Pleasure
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsGod 'took pleasure' in Christ's being bruised, not in the pain and suffering that His Son endured, but in the ultimate goal of adding to His Family.
The Plain Truth About Easter
Herbert W. Armstrong BookletEaster is not a Christian name, but belongs to the idolatrous 'queen of heaven.' Here are the origins of Easter eggs and sunrise services, which pre-date Christ.
Another Look at Footwashing
Article by Bill KeeseeMany consider the footwashing at Passover merely as a ritual to remind us of the need to serve one another. But it teaches another godly attribute: forgiveness.
The Night to be Much Observed
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Night Much to be Observed is a memorial of the covenant with Abraham, and God's watchfulness in delivering ancient Israel as well as spiritual Israel.
By This We Know Love!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsAs God's people keep God's law in its spiritual intent, they begin to think like the Father and His Son, both of whom habitually do good.
Listen To The Lamb's Voice
Sermon by Mark SchindlerThe movie Ben-Hur captures the essence of the time and ministry of Christ. By letting go of anger and hatred, we take on the yoke of Jesus Christ.
What Does 'Examine Yourselves' Mean?
'Ready Answer' by StaffChristians prepare for Passover by engaging in a thorough, spiritual self-examination. An analysis of II Corinthians 13:5 shows us what we need to look for.
Debt and Obligation
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe live in a time when people have acquired a weak sense of obligation to family, society, or nation. Because sin cannot be undone, all are debtors to God.
Footwashing
Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughFootwashing is the initial part of the Passover ceremony. Why did Christ institute it? What is its purpose?