Is it OK to Celebrate the Feasts of the Lord?

In its original context, each Feast had regulations and commands, do’s and don’ts that formed part of the Old Testament law. Some of these decrees involved what to eat or specified animal sacrifices which would be impossible to do now. Without the Temple in Jerusalem, modern Judaism has had to find theological alternatives to fulfil the heart of the law rather than the letter. For us as Christians, since the perfect and final work of Christ on the cross has set us free from the obligations of the law, we are no longer required to fulfil all these details for our holiness. By God’s incredible grace we can now put on the righteousness of Messiah Jesus to enable us to stand before a holy God.

Some Christians believe that celebrating these Hebrew Feasts in any form is veering too close to forgetting grace and going back to the law.

We would emphasise, that any spiritual practice, however good it is in itself, has the potential for legalism (even going to church, or only using a particular translation of the Bible). Celebrating these Old Testament Feasts should not be seen as a requirement for salvation, for gaining favour with God, or to make us superior Christians. The work of the Gospel is sufficient and complete and does not need adding to. As the Apostle Paul said in the letter to the Galatians, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”

However, as FIRM (Fellowship of Israeli Related Ministries) puts it: “For Christians observing Jewish holidays can be a meaningful practice. But more importantly, from a Biblical perspective, by unravelling the meaning of these festivals, we are learning about God’s character.

“Biblical feasts deepen our faith, enhance our understanding of Scripture, and foster unity within the diverse Body of Messiah.

“As we explore both the ancient observances and their prophetic meaning, we experience the continuity of God’s story. Moreover, we celebrate the shared heritage of faith that binds the Christian and Jewish communities together.

“By embracing these holidays, we embark on a journey of discovery, reverence, and celebration. So, let us honour the past while we look forward to the ultimate fulfilment of God’s redemptive plan for humanity.”

(firmisrael.org/learn/should-christians-observe-the-jewish-holidays/)

As always, God looks at our heart. He invites us in freedom to enjoy an ancient rhythm of annual celebrations that have been celebrated throughout Biblical times and remind us of His desire to interact with His people and bring them all to live eternally with Him. Each Feast is a wonderful opportunity to meet with Him in a new way and learn something as we meditate on the scriptures.

Having lived in Israel among Messianic Jewish Believers for over a decade, we can also testify to the joy and vibrancy of celebrating the moedim. These are not dull religious practices, but a family time, a time for feasting, and they are marked with much enthusiasm and energy that is contagious. It is good to be reminded that the Lord loves to meet with his children and the joy of the Lord is our strength!

In Deuteronomy, the people of God were encouraged to teach the story of God to their children and their children’s children - the Feasts are a family affair, often involving a Festive meal around a table where Biblical truths would be taught and family traditions passed down the generations. That is still a great idea today!

The answer is to do all things in the power of the Holy Spirit - where the Spirit is, there is freedom!