PASSOVER, THE VICTORY OF OBEDIENCE

Introduction

Have a Blessed Passover (Philippians 2:8, John 14:15, Philippians 2:5-11).

Passover is a proclamation of victory! But before Jesus’ resurrection,a remarkable story of obedience preceded it.

CONTENT

Passover is a sign of Christ’s highest obedience to the Father, which should reflect obedience in our lives.

1. Christ’s obedience: obedience even unto death (Philippians 2:8)

The apostle Paul wrote: “And though He appeared in human form, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death, even death on the cross.”

Jesus’ obedience was not an easy obedience. It is obedience that requires the ultimate sacrifice.
In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus said: “...not My will, but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42). This is the climax of obedience, when the personal will submits to God’s will.
Passover (Death and Resurrection) is the concrete proof that obedience brings salvation to many. Jesus’ obedience demonstrates His boundless love for His Father and for us.

2. Passover turns obedience into victory

Jesus’ obedience brought Him to the cross (death), but God raised Him on the third day (the victory).

Without His obedience to die, there is no resurrection.
Without the cross, there is no crown.

3. Passover teaches us that obedience to God may feel painful or detrimental in the short term, but that obedience in God’s hands will ultimately lead to victory and glory.

The action for us to take is: Passover as a sign of our obedience in life.

How do we celebrate Passover today as a sign of obedience?

Obedience in small things: Obedience is not only about big things, but also about faithfulness in small things (honesty at work, faithfulness in service, love in the family).
Obedience amidst challenges: The world often demands that we disobey God’s word (through bribery, lies, etc.). Obedience means daring to be different and upholding the truth.
Obedience out of love: Jesus said, “If you love Me, you will obey My commandments” (John 14:15). Our obedience is an expression of love for the Passover sacrifice, not out of compulsion.