Numbers 9:11

Such people are to observe it at twilight on the fourteenth day of the second month. They are to eat the lamb, together with unleavened bread and bitter herbs;

Study Bible

Such people are to observe it at twilight on the fourteenth day of the second month.
This instruction refers to those who were unable to celebrate the Passover at its appointed time in the first month due to ceremonial uncleanness or being on a journey. The provision of a second Passover, known as Pesach Sheni, highlights God's grace and the importance of the Passover as a foundational event in Israel's history. The timing at twilight mirrors the original Passover in Exodus 12:6, emphasizing continuity and the importance of precise obedience to God's commands. The second month, Iyar, provides a second chance for participation, reflecting God's desire for inclusivity in worship.

They are to eat the lamb,
The lamb is central to the Passover celebration, symbolizing the sacrifice that spared the Israelites from the plague of the firstborn in Egypt. This act of eating the lamb is a direct connection to the original Passover event, reinforcing the themes of deliverance and redemption. The lamb also serves as a type of Christ, the "Lamb of God" (John 1:29), whose sacrifice brings ultimate deliverance from sin.

together with unleavened bread
Unleavened bread, or matzah, is a reminder of the haste with which the Israelites left Egypt, as there was no time for the dough to rise. It symbolizes purity and the removal of sin, as leaven often represents sin in Scripture (1 Corinthians 5:7-8). The inclusion of unleavened bread in the second Passover underscores the call to holiness and separation from sin.

and bitter herbs;
Bitter herbs, or maror, are eaten to recall the bitterness of slavery in Egypt. This element of the Passover meal serves as a tangible reminder of the suffering endured by the Israelites and the subsequent deliverance by God's mighty hand. The bitterness also points to the suffering of Christ, who bore the sins of the world, and the bitterness of sin from which believers are delivered.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The people of God who were delivered from Egypt and are now in the wilderness, receiving instructions on how to live as a covenant community.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who receives and communicates God's laws and instructions to the people.

3. The Passover
A significant event and feast commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt, marked by the sacrifice of a lamb and the eating of unleavened bread and bitter herbs.

4. The Second Month
Refers to the month of Iyar in the Hebrew calendar, which is the time specified for those who were unable to observe the Passover in the first month (Nisan).

5. The Tabernacle
The central place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for All
The allowance for a second Passover in the second month demonstrates God's grace and provision for those who, due to circumstances beyond their control, could not participate in the first observance. This reflects God's understanding and accommodation of human limitations.

The Importance of Remembrance
Observing the Passover was crucial for the Israelites to remember God's deliverance. Similarly, Christians are called to remember Christ's sacrifice, which is our ultimate deliverance from sin.

Symbolism of the Elements
The lamb, unleavened bread, and bitter herbs each hold deep symbolic meaning. The lamb represents sacrifice, the unleavened bread signifies purity and haste, and the bitter herbs remind of the bitterness of slavery. These elements encourage reflection on the cost of redemption and the call to holiness.

Obedience to God's Commands
The detailed instructions for observing the Passover highlight the importance of obedience to God's commands. This obedience is a demonstration of faith and reverence for God's holiness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the provision for a second Passover in Numbers 9:11 reflect God's character and His understanding of human circumstances?

2. In what ways can the symbolism of the Passover elements (lamb, unleavened bread, bitter herbs) deepen our understanding of Christ's sacrifice?

3. How does the observance of the Passover in the second month relate to the concept of grace and second chances in the New Testament?

4. What are some practical ways we can incorporate the principle of remembrance into our daily lives to honor Christ's sacrifice?

5. How can we apply the lesson of obedience from the Passover instructions to our own walk with God today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
Provides the original instructions for the Passover, establishing its significance and the elements involved, such as the lamb, unleavened bread, and bitter herbs.

Leviticus 23
Lists the appointed feasts of the Lord, including the Passover, and outlines their observance as a perpetual statute for the Israelites.

2 Chronicles 30
Describes King Hezekiah's observance of the Passover in the second month, highlighting the provision for those who were unable to celebrate it at the appointed time.

1 Corinthians 5:7-8
Paul draws a parallel between Christ, our Passover lamb, and the call for believers to live in sincerity and truth, akin to the unleavened bread.