Exodus 12:15 "Seven days you shall eat unleavened bread."

The institution of the Passover and the feast of unleavened bread is applied by a command given for its celebration by the people to be delivered (Exodus 12:21-28 ). So Christ instituted His supper of remembrance for believers to keep (1 Corinthians 11:23-34; Matthew 26:26-28 ).

Death of the firstborn - from the firstborn of Pharaoh to the captive in the dungeon - not one Egyptian family escaped loss. Though Pharaoh could manufacture rationalizations for the other plagues, he could not reason away the trauma of the death of his son. Moses and Aaron are called in the night and told to go, with no conditions. Pharaoh even asked to be blessed (Exodus 12:29-32 ). The people departed swiftly, richly laden with Egyptian treasure (Exodus 12:31-36 ), and journeyed to Succoth (Exodus 12:37-39 ). A great company left, 600 000 men, besides women and children, accompanied by a mixed multitude, as well as all their cattle and possessions. The time they left Egypt is specified as 430 years to the very day (Exodus 12:40-42 ).

Further injunctions concerning the Passover as a perpetual ordinance are given (Exodus 12:43-50 ). The Lord's "I will" of deliverance from Egypt's bondage was accomplished - standing as a perpetual reminder of the faithfulness of His promises (2 Corinthians 1:20 ).

QUESTIONS FOR GROUP INTERACTION

1. What does leaven symbolise?
   • How would you describe a life of sincerity and truth?
   • Are you actively part of the armies of the Lord?
   • What is the cost of being a soldier of Christ (2 Timothy 2:3-4 )?
   • Would you say the Holy Spirit is raising up a standard against the foes of Christ? Are you a channel of the Spirit's power?

2. Do you think that Pharaoh or any of his servants could rationalise or reason away this terrifying visitation of death on every firstborn in the land?
   • Are you surprised by Pharaoh's unconditional command to Moses and Aaron to go?

3. What does it tell you about God bringing out Israel laden with the treasure of their oppressors?
   • Do you believe that all the promises in Christ are "yes" and that the Holy Spirit in our hearts is the Guarantor of that Yes? (2 Corinthians 1:20-21 ).
   • When you are reminded of God delivering Israel - bringing them out in their armies - do you see it as a demonstration of God's unchanging faithfulness?