Ezra 6:19

On the fourteenth day of the first month, the exiles kept the Passover.

Study Bible

On the fourteenth day
This phrase marks a specific time in the Jewish calendar, the 14th of Nisan, which is significant as the day the Passover lamb was traditionally slaughtered. The precision of this date underscores the importance of adhering to God's commandments as given in Exodus 12:6. Historically, this day is a reminder of God's deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage, symbolizing liberation and divine intervention. The meticulous observance of this date by the exiles reflects their dedication to restoring their covenant relationship with God.

of the first month
The first month, Nisan (or Abib), is the beginning of the Jewish religious calendar. This timing is significant as it represents new beginnings and renewal. For the exiles, celebrating Passover in the first month symbolizes a fresh start in their spiritual journey and a return to their roots after the Babylonian captivity. It is a time of hope and restoration, aligning with the themes of redemption and renewal found throughout the Scriptures.

the exiles
This term refers to the Jewish people who had returned to Jerusalem from Babylonian captivity. Their identity as "exiles" highlights their past suffering and displacement, yet also their resilience and faithfulness. The return from exile is a fulfillment of God's promises through the prophets, such as Jeremiah and Isaiah, who spoke of restoration and return. The exiles' participation in the Passover signifies their reestablishment as God's chosen people and their commitment to His covenant.

kept the Passover
The act of keeping the Passover is a profound expression of obedience and worship. Passover is one of the most significant feasts in Jewish tradition, commemorating the deliverance from Egypt. For the exiles, keeping the Passover was not just a ritualistic observance but a heartfelt act of gratitude and remembrance of God's past deliverance and continued faithfulness. It is a reaffirmation of their identity and faith, serving as a powerful reminder of God's salvation and mercy.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Exiles
These are the Israelites who returned from Babylonian captivity. Their return and restoration are central themes in the book of Ezra.

2. Passover
A significant Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from Egyptian slavery. It is a time of remembrance and celebration of God's faithfulness and salvation.

3. The Fourteenth Day of the First Month
This date is significant as it marks the beginning of Passover, as prescribed in the Law of Moses (Exodus 12:6).

Teaching Points

The Importance of Remembrance
The celebration of Passover by the exiles underscores the importance of remembering God's past deliverance as a foundation for faith and hope in present circumstances.

Obedience to God's Commands
The exiles' observance of Passover demonstrates their commitment to obeying God's laws, even after a period of exile and disobedience. This serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning our lives with God's Word.

Community and Worship
The communal aspect of Passover highlights the significance of gathering together in worship and celebration, fostering unity and shared faith among believers.

God's Faithfulness
The return of the exiles and their ability to celebrate Passover is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, encouraging believers to trust in His continued faithfulness.

Christ as Our Passover
Understanding the Passover in light of Christ's sacrifice enriches our appreciation of the New Testament's fulfillment of Old Testament promises, encouraging us to live in the reality of Christ's redemptive work.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the celebration of Passover by the exiles in Ezra 6:19 reflect their spiritual renewal and commitment to God?

2. In what ways can we incorporate the principle of remembrance into our own spiritual practices today?

3. How does the observance of Passover in Ezra 6:19 connect to the broader biblical theme of God's deliverance and faithfulness?

4. What lessons can we learn from the exiles' obedience to God's commands, and how can we apply these lessons in our daily lives?

5. How does understanding Christ as our Passover lamb deepen our appreciation for the continuity of God's redemptive plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
This chapter provides the original instructions for the Passover, highlighting its importance as a perpetual ordinance for the Israelites.

2 Chronicles 30
This passage describes King Hezekiah's celebration of the Passover, emphasizing the importance of returning to God's commands and the joy of communal worship.

1 Corinthians 5:7
Paul refers to Christ as our Passover lamb, drawing a parallel between the Old Testament Passover and the sacrifice of Jesus, highlighting the continuity of God's redemptive plan.