Exodus 12:24

Context

Exodus 12:24 is part of God's detailed instructions to Moses and Aaron regarding the institution of the Passover celebration, given just before the climactic tenth plague in Egypt – the death of the firstborn. This divine ordinance served as a protective measure for the Israelites and a powerful sign of God's judgment against Egypt and its gods. Following the night of the Passover, the Israelites were finally released from centuries of bondage, beginning their journey to the Promised Land. This verse emphasizes the enduring nature of this foundational act of remembrance.

Key Themes

• Perpetual Ordinance: The phrase "for ever" (Hebrew: l'olam) underscores that the Passover was not a temporary ritual but an eternal commandment for the nation of Israel, designed to be observed throughout all generations. It was a fixed statute, a perpetual decree from God.
• Intergenerational Observance: The command "to thee and to thy sons" highlights the importance of passing down faith, history, and divine instructions from one generation to the next. The celebration was meant to be a living memorial, ensuring that future Israelites understood their heritage of deliverance. This echoes the broader biblical emphasis on teaching children God's commands, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:7.
• Remembrance of Deliverance: The core purpose of the Passover was to remember God's mighty act of saving His people from slavery and death. It served as a constant reminder of His faithfulness, power, and covenant relationship with Israel.

Linguistic Insights

The word "ordinance" in Hebrew is choq (חֹק), which refers to a fixed statute, an established decree, or an unchangeable law. It conveys the idea of something prescribed and binding, emphasizing the divine authority behind the command. The addition of "for ever" (l'olam) reinforces its permanent and enduring nature, signifying that this was not a temporary measure but a fundamental and perpetual requirement for the Israelite community.

Practical Application

While the specific ritual of the Passover was given to ancient Israel, the principles embedded in Exodus 12:24 hold profound significance for believers today:

• Remembering God's Deliverance: We are called to consistently remember and celebrate God's saving acts in our lives and in history. For Christians, the Passover finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, our Passover Lamb, whose sacrifice delivers us from the bondage of sin and death. The Lord's Supper, or Communion, serves as our perpetual ordinance to remember His ultimate sacrifice and the new covenant, as instituted in Luke 22:19.
• Intergenerational Faith: This verse stresses the vital role of parents and elders in passing on spiritual truths and the story of God's faithfulness to younger generations. Teaching children about God's character and His works ensures that faith continues to thrive and impact future families and communities.
• Obedience to God's Commands: The unchangeable nature of this "ordinance" reminds us of the importance of obedience to God's established commands, which are given for our good and His glory.