5 Reasons Why Jesus Followers Should Observe The Passover Seder
1. JESUS FULFILLS ALL OF THE ROLES IN THE JEWISH FESTIVALS.
The Seder is the most important role Jesus fulfills because he is the sacrificial lamb – the one who rescues and redeems us. John the Baptist said, “Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world!” The Seder gives a perfect explanation about the sacrifical lamb and why we need a savior.
2. THE SEDER HELPS US UNDERSTAND COMMUNION.
The night that Jesus was betrayed, Jesus was most likely having the Seder with his disciples and this event became more than just a once a year tradition. For example, there are three types of matzah (pierced bread) wrapped in one linen during the Seder and one of the matzah is broken in half, hidden away, and then returns later in the event. The Seder brings out the beautiful imagery of Jesus and will help your congregation understand communion better.
3. IT CONNECTS US TO OUR JEWISH ROOTS.
We sometimes forget that Jesus himself was Jewish. His life and teachings are not separated from that culture. “Connecting to our Jewish Roots” is a little play on words since Romans 11 says that as gentiles, we are wild shoots grafted into the root. If we want to have a deeper understanding of who Jesus is, celebrating the Passover Seder is imperative.
4. SEDERS CAN BE A LOT OF FUN!
One year I led a Seder at a church in Pittsburgh and I could tell some people were nervous because they weren’t sure what to expect. I made a quick joke and told people it’s okay to talk and let your hair down. The Seder is about a community coming together to recognize they are saved by a God who loves them. It’s a time of joy!
5. SEDERS HELP US UNDERSTAND OUR FAITH BETTER.
When I was a Youth Pastor, this was the biggest event we did. I couldn’t believe how much the students loved it. They said they understood their faith so much better after going through a Seder. The Seder is the perfect event to remind us why we need Jesus.
Maranatha // מרנאתא
-Justin
This year I will be hosting in-person Seders as well as producing a video that you can purchase to show either in your home or your church. If you’d like to learn more about having me host in person or how to purchase the Seder video, fill out the form below and I’ll be in touch.
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About The Author
Justin Boothby is a lifelong student who loves to travel, film, write, design websites, and life coach. Most importantly he loves to Pastor in all different kinds of ministry settings. He’s also an avid pizza lover, metalcore listener, and shot glass collector.
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About The Author
Justin is a lifelong student who loves to speak, travel, film, write, and coach. He has a goal of empowering others to grow closer to Jesus in practical and unique ways. After acquiring two degrees in Practical Theology and then studying in Israel for two years, Justin has a passion to help people read the Bible with a deeper appreciation in its original, ancient context.
M.A. Hebrew University of Jerusalem
M.Div. Regent University
B.S. Southeastern University
