Exodus 23:15

You are to keep the Feast of Unleavened Bread as I commanded you: At the appointed time in the month of Abib you are to eat unleavened bread for seven days, because that was the month you came out of Egypt. No one may appear before Me empty-handed.

Study Bible

You are to keep the Feast of Unleavened Bread
This command refers to one of the three major pilgrimage festivals in ancient Israel. The Hebrew word for "Feast" is "חַג" (chag), which implies a festival or celebration. The "Feast of Unleavened Bread" (חַג הַמַּצּוֹת, Chag HaMatzot) is a seven-day observance that begins on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Nisan, immediately following Passover. Historically, this feast commemorates the Israelites' hasty departure from Egypt, during which they did not have time to let their bread rise. Spiritually, it symbolizes purity and the removal of sin, as leaven often represents sin in the Bible.

as I commanded you
This phrase underscores the divine authority behind the observance. The Hebrew root "צָוָה" (tsavah) means to command or charge, indicating that this is not merely a suggestion but a divine mandate. The repetition of God's commands throughout the Torah emphasizes the importance of obedience and the covenant relationship between God and His people.

at the appointed time
The Hebrew term "מוֹעֵד" (moed) refers to an appointed time or season, often used in the context of sacred festivals. This highlights the importance of timing in God's plan, as these festivals are not arbitrary but divinely ordained moments for worship and remembrance. The concept of "appointed time" also points to God's sovereignty over history and His meticulous orchestration of events.

in the month of Abib
"Abib" (אָבִיב) is the original Hebrew name for the month later known as Nisan. It marks the beginning of the Hebrew calendar year and corresponds to March-April in the Gregorian calendar. The term "Abib" means "ear of grain," indicating the time of year when barley was ripening. This agricultural context ties the festival to the cycle of nature and God's provision.

for in that month you came out of Egypt
This phrase serves as a historical reminder of God's deliverance of the Israelites from slavery. The Exodus is a foundational event in Jewish history, symbolizing liberation and God's faithfulness. It is a call to remember and celebrate God's mighty acts and His covenant faithfulness.

No one is to appear before Me empty-handed
The Hebrew phrase "לֹא יֵרָאֶה פָנַי רֵיקָם" (lo yera'eh panai reikam) emphasizes the importance of bringing offerings to God. This command reflects the principle of giving back to God as an act of worship and gratitude. It underscores the idea that worship involves sacrifice and that one should not come before God without acknowledging His provision and blessings. This principle is echoed throughout Scripture, highlighting the importance of a heart of generosity and reverence in worship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Feast of Unleavened Bread
A significant Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' exodus from Egypt, marked by eating unleavened bread for seven days.

2. Month of Abib
The first month of the Hebrew calendar, corresponding to March-April, when the Israelites left Egypt.

3. Egypt
The land of bondage from which God delivered the Israelites, symbolizing sin and oppression.

4. God's Command
The directive from God to observe the feast, emphasizing obedience and remembrance of His deliverance.

5. Israelites
The people of God who were delivered from slavery in Egypt, representing God's chosen nation.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
The Feast of Unleavened Bread is a reminder of the importance of obeying God's commands. Just as the Israelites were to follow God's instructions, Christians are called to live in obedience to His Word.

Remembrance of Deliverance
The feast serves as a memorial of God's deliverance from Egypt. Believers are encouraged to remember and celebrate their own deliverance from sin through Christ.

Offering to God
The command not to appear empty-handed highlights the importance of bringing offerings to God. This can be applied today as a call to offer our time, talents, and resources to God in gratitude.

Spiritual Purity
The removal of leaven symbolizes the removal of sin. Christians are called to live lives of purity and holiness, removing sin from their lives.

Community and Worship
The feast was a communal event, emphasizing the importance of gathering together for worship and celebration. Believers are encouraged to participate in communal worship and fellowship.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the Feast of Unleavened Bread teach us about the importance of remembering God's past deliverance in our lives?

2. How can we apply the principle of not appearing before God empty-handed in our modern context?

3. In what ways does the removal of leaven during the feast symbolize the Christian call to holiness and purity?

4. How does the observance of the Feast of Unleavened Bread in the Old Testament connect to the New Testament teachings of Jesus and Paul?

5. What are some practical ways we can incorporate the principles of obedience, remembrance, and offering into our daily walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 23:6-8
Further instructions on the Feast of Unleavened Bread, emphasizing its importance in the Jewish calendar.

Deuteronomy 16:16
Reinforces the command that no one should appear before God empty-handed during the three major feasts.

1 Corinthians 5:7-8
Paul uses the imagery of unleavened bread to teach about purity and sincerity in the Christian life.

Matthew 26:17-19
Jesus observes the Feast of Unleavened Bread, connecting the Old Testament practice to the New Testament fulfillment in Christ.