THE LAST PLAGUE: THE PASSOVER: Read Exodus 12
The last ‘plague’ would be binding upon both Israel and the Egyptians. It is called ‘the Passover,’ because the angel of death would only ‘pass over’ the houses marked with blood! Exodus 12:13,23. This plague was the final warning by God to the Egyptians and Israel that they are to separate from the non-believers! No one was exempt and everyone would know the consequence of disobeying the word of God! Those only inside the houses which were marked by the blood of a lamb on their doorposts would be delivered. All who ignored the instructions of God would see the death of their firstborn children. There are several Divine principles and foreshadowing lessons associated with ‘The Passover’ which provides a complete and living parable of redemption! Exodus 12 recounts the careful preparation needed in order to be delivered from this last plague. There are many parallels to the salvation offered through Jesus Christ!
1) Israel was enslaved in the “house of bondage” Exodus 13:14, just as we are to sin: Romans 7:24.
2) God provides a Lamb as deliverer” Exodus 12:3; John 1:29.
It was to be a ‘male and without blemish’ -cp 1 Peter 1:18
It was to be roast with fire – ie. persecution – 1 Peter 2:22-25
Every family to eat all of Lamb – full participation with Christ: Luke 22:15.
3) Unleavened bread = untainted: Sincerity & truth: 1 Corinthians 5:7
4) Bitter herbs -bitterness of bondage.
5) Blood only on the door posts and lintels -All who enter (the door) are covered by sacrifice: I John 1:7. No blood on the doorstep to “tread under foot” Hebrews 10:29.
6) Shoes on – Staff in Hand – Loins girded: prepared and in readiness to leave when called upon. They were to ACT ON PRINCIPLE: Ephesians 6:14-15.
7) An angel of death passes over those within the house of faith. 1Corinthians 15:54 (once we are in the house, we are in Christ. He is our Passover lamb and the means of our deliverance.)
8) Death of the Egyptian firstborn and any who knew what God required but chose not to obey. IE “retribution to those who do not know God and to those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus” 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9