For Gentile Christians, the question of observing the biblical feasts of Israel (or more precisely, the Feasts of the Lord, Leviticus 23) sits at a complex intersection of biblical theology, Christian freedom, and personal conviction. To find a balanced perspective, we must examine several aspects, including their original purpose and prophetic design, their fulfillment in Jewish Christ (how they point to Jesus), and the New Testament’s teaching on Gentile Christians’ freedom. These investigations must also consider the prophetic visions of a future where all nations worship God, specifically in the context of these feasts.
The Foundation: Feasts as Divine Appointments
YHVH instituted for Israel the feasts as sacred “appointed times” (Lev 23:2, 4). They were more than cultural holidays; they were theological signposts designed to teach and/or remind Israel about God’s nature, provision, and His full commitment to Israel’s redemption.
The biblical calendar is built upon seven annual feasts, or “Appointed Times” (מוֹעֲדִים), commanded in the Torah (Leviticus 23, Numbers 28-29). Just as each biblical week is built on a cycle of seven days.
The four Spring Feasts—Passover, the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Firstfruits, and the Feast of Weeks/Pentecost—are linked to the barley and wheat harvests and symbolize redemption, holiness, and renewal of life.
The three Fall Feasts—the Feast of Trumpets, the Day of Atonement, and the Feast of Tabernacles—happen in the seventh month and are related to the last harvest, ideas of repentance, national forgiveness, and God’s presence among people.
Critically, these feasts also carried a forward-looking, prophetic dimension. For example, the Passover lamb was a clear sign of Jesus’ final sacrifice, “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29). The Feast of Firstfruits, celebrating the first sheaf of the harvest, finds its perfect fulfillment in the resurrection of Christ, whom Paul calls “the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Cor 15:20). Pentecost, occurring fifty days after Firstfruits, marked the giving of the Torah at Sinai and was fulfilled in the New Testament by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, forming the Church as a new kind of covenant community (Acts 2). The Feast of Trumpets (Rosh HaShanah) foreshadows the Messiah’s return and the final gathering of God’s people with its blasts calling to solemn assembly (1 Thess 4:16-17). The Day of Atonement points to the final judgment, the cleansing of both people and the earth, and the full application of Christ’s atoning work through his high priest’s unique entrance into the Holy of Holies (Heb 9:24-28). Finally, the Feast of Tabernacles, a joyous harvest celebration of God’s provision and dwelling (literally “tabernacling”) with Israel, prophetically anticipates the great ingathering of nations and the eternal, joyful reign of Israel’s God in the new creation (Rev 21:3).
Thus, the biblical calendar is far more than a historical record of agricultural cycles and national commemorations; it is a divinely orchestrated typological framework, outlining God’s entire redemptive program from the Exodus to the final consummation described in the Book of Revelation.
(Who is Dr. Eli (Eliyahu) Lizorkin?)
The Prophetic Vision: A Future Inclusion of the Nations
One of the most compelling threads in this discussion comes from the Old Testament prophets, who envisioned a future where Gentile nations would join Israel in worshipping the one true God. Isaiah’s grand vision of the mountain of the Lord’s house includes “all nations” streaming to it:
“Now it will come about that
In the last days
The mountain of the house of the Lord
Will be established as the chief of the mountains,
And will be raised above the hills;
And all the nations will stream to it.
And many peoples will come and say,
“Come, let’s go up to the mountain of the Lord,
To the house of the God of Jacob;
So that He may teach us about His ways,
And that we may walk in His paths.”
For the law will go out from Zion
And the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.” (Isa 2:2–3)
While not naming a specific feast, the context is one of pilgrimage and instruction in God’s ways—the very essence of the pilgrimage feasts (Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles).
Micah 4:1–2 echoes this. Perhaps the most sweeping vision comes from Isaiah 56:6–7, where God promises to bring foreigners who love Him to His holy mountain, and declares,
“Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be accepted on my altar, for my house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples.”
Interestingly, the prophet Zechariah had this vision around one such Feast of the Lord/Israel. He foresaw a Messianic age where even Gentile nations will observe the Feast of Tabernacles:
“Then everyone who survives of all the nations that have come against Jerusalem shall go up year after year to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, and to keep the Feast of Booths/Tabernacles” (Zech 14:16).
This suggests, although it is possible that we should not be understanding this prophecy literally, that in God’s ultimate kingdom, these appointed times will have a role in universal worship.
The New Testament Shift: Fulfillment and Freedom
The New Testament consistently presents Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law and its festivals. Writing to Gentile Christians Apostle Paul offers a pivotal directive: “Therefore, let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ.” (Col 2:16–17) Here, the feasts are described as “shadows” cast by the coming reality of Christ. The substance—the full light and form—is found in Him. Observing the shadow once the substance has arrived is a matter of personal liberty, not obligation. Notice, it is not forbidden, but nor is it required. The strong advice “let no one pass judgement on you” protects you from potential accusers who might question your observance as a Gentile Christian or claim you are unable to observe if you wish.
This principle of freedom is central to the New Covenant. The Jerusalem Council in Acts 15 decided (or better put, affirmed) that non-Jewish followers of the Jewish Christ did not have to follow the Law of Moses like new converts do, but instead, they should follow all basic principles from the Torah as guests among the Israelites (see laws for sojourners with Israel in Leviticus 17:8–18:26). Although Acts 15 does not explicitly reference Leviticus 17-18, the connection is rather clear once the lists are compared. When Galatian Gentile Christians were taught by some that they also needed to become part of Israel through proselyte conversion, Paul warned the Galatians against returning to the observance of “days and months and seasons and years,” seeing it as a potential step back (Gal 4:9–11). (It would be helpful to also read my article The Allegory of Sarah and Hagar in light of the Antioch Incident, since it is closely related to this topic).
Apostle Paul, himself an observant Jew, believed Gentiles and Israel should unite as a single coalition in worship of YHVH, while maintaining their distinct identities. This conviction stemmed from his core belief that YHVH is not merely Israel’s tribal deity but the God of the whole world (Rom 3:29–30). Paul envisioned something greater than Gentiles simply becoming Jews. If that happened, he reasoned, God would remain only Israel’s God. Instead, Paul believed YHVH would receive far greater glory if both Israel and the Nations—together yet distinct—worshipped Him as the one true God.
A Balanced Conclusion: Liberty, Wisdom, and Focus
Let the rhythms of God’s ancient calendar awaken your spirit to the fullness of the Jewish Christ! These feasts are not chains of obligation but radiant signposts illuminating the entire arc of redemption—from the Lamb of Passover to the harvest of Tabernacles. In Jesus, their promise is fulfilled; in you, their story lives on.
You stand in the glorious freedom of grace. You may walk through these appointed times not to earn favor, but to explore the breathtaking depths of the favor you already possess. Taste the bread, hear the trumpet, dwell in the booth—let each act deepen your wonder at God’s perfect plan.
And fix your eyes on the prophetic horizon: a vision of all nations united in worship. Your place in this story is secure. So live in liberty, rooted in Christ, the Substance of every shadow. Let your life be a joyful echo of heaven’s eternal feast to come.
Well explained.
From my personal perspective I believe that those that understand the feasts and see their significance in Christ’s life.
Its not a case of should or rule keeping. Its about celebrating something from the heart.
We must also remember that these 7 feasts are opportunities to come together and enjoy God’s providence.
Thank you for sharing Sharon.
Your conclusion is perfect if we follow Paul’s theology but did not Jesus say : I’m not here to abolish the Law, I think that according the Gospels he did respect jewish celebrations until holiday very last days on earth.
Paul’s revolutionary vision accomplished unfortunately the separation from jewish religion and I don’t think that’s what Jesus wanted (this is my personal feeling )and tell now my personal inner struggle
Alexandra, shalom! Thank you for sharing your stuggle. The KEY thing to keep in mind is that Gospels are essentially Jewish documents and, in many ways, written either for Israelites (John, Matthew) or for Gentile God-fearers (Mark, Luke). Paul, while he did ministry to both in some way, wrote EVERY SINGLE ONE of his letters to Gentiles ALONE! This is a very important point. We actually don’t know for sure what he would have written to the Jews/Israelites. We can guess because we can see his life in Acts (as continuous Torah observance). Yes, Paul was a fully Torah-observant Pharisee even after he met the risen Christ. I would recommend exploring all articles in this section to understand the Judaism of Apostle Paul – https://drelisblog.com/category/apostle-paul/
I think he has been misread in many ways.
Thank you so much for your expert teaching on the Old Testament. I always look forward to your writings as a clear learning experience.
God bless you Ken!
Very clear explanation. Unfortunately, many gentile Christians think they can get nearer to God or gain points with God by observing the Jewish feasts. Some almost worship the state of Israel and anyone who is a Jew, religious or not. Thank you for bringing clarity and balance to this issue.
May the Jewish Christ receive all of our glory!
Your reflection beautifully captures the heart of the matter. The Feasts are indeed a divine banquet, a rich inheritance set before all God’s children. Gentiles are not obligated to celebrate them, as Colossians 2:16-17 makes clear, but they are profoundly invited to explore them. This is the freedom you appreciate: the liberty to delve into the Hebrew roots of our faith without the burden of law, allowing the Feasts to serve as masterful teaching tools about God’s character, redemption, and prophetic calendar. As you wisely note, this exploration is part of a much wider spiritual feast.
Thank you for those precisions Dr Eli, that’s what I think too about Jesus also…Got the book about jewish Apostle Paul, you kindly sent me revisiting his writings with a Christian community these days
..
May the Lord bless you, Alexandra!
I do know of any Christian who thinks they become “nearer to God to gain points with God by observing Jewish feasts.” This is a worn-out judgment against those who just want to discover God in the feasts. I know of no one who worships Israel or anyone who is a Jew. Just because you are bitter against Israel or anyone who is a Jew should not disqualify those who desire a relationship with the nation and its citizens knowing that salvation is of the Jews and that Japeth will dwell in the tents of Shem. Genesis 9:27
Dr Eli,
I love this! I am a gentile believer, yet have been enjoying keeping the feasts and Shabbat for all of the reasons stated above! Recently, there have been articles claiming that Christians keeping the feasts is “appropriation.” Something that was never my intention. On the contrary, I passionately support Israel’s birthright to Zion!
So thank you for clarifying the balance and freedom we have in Yeshua. And as you said, according to scripture we will all be partaking in the mo’edim when He returns.
Thank you!
Shalom Dr Eli,
Leviticus 23:1-3 is one of my favourite passages of scripture, “this are the feasts of the Lord/appointmented feasts, Not Jewish feasts ? Oh let’s reread as Dr Eli says ” the feasts of the LORD “we should keep, and observe all biblical feasts .
They are indeed the Feasts of the Lord given to Israel to observe. Nations are invited as well, but not obligated.
Thank you, once more. I was wondering about Sabbath , subject on which God’s Words insits many times, which is part of the (only) ten commandments, etc. I’m not even jewish, though ! Thank you for this reminder that Jesus came to free us 🙂
I will deal with it separately. Big topic too.
Deeply beautiful and agreed! Also, how about we put it in present tense and Let our lives be a joyful echo of heaven’s eternal feast in Christ, right now, every day, and extra special when we gather together to observe and celebrate the miracles of God through every biblical feast as well. ❤️✝️🙏🕊️
Indeed!
Dr Eli I am in awe. This article brought tears to my eyes. A couple of years ago while I was at a crossroad, dealing with chronic illnesses, retired from teaching due to it, my journey with keeping the Feasts of The Lord/ His appointed times, the Sabbath started. It was transformative and I feel a freedom that I can not describe in words. There is so much richness and depth in YHWH’S Appointed Times. HalleluYah!
Amen!
Sylvia & Dr. Eli, as for God’s appointed times, it is interesting to note it was 1000 years after the anointing of King Saul because the People found it too difficult to follow the Invisible God, until Saul/Paul taught Christians the way to return to following the Invisible God again.
I certainly agree that we all should be keeping the Sabbath holy. I honestly don’t know why we don’t. It is very clear from the bible that it is God ‘s will ( and obviously beneficial.)
I will one day write on this topic.
And don’t forget many of the feasts have Sabbaths right in them. Or maybe called High Holy Days.
Thank you for your comment.
Indeed Vera, it is the only commentment with a blessing of long life if you keep the Sabbath.
And Yeshua said that not one tittel or jota will pass from the( Royal )Law till all is fulfilled. And also in His Kingdom, there will be a law also. No kingdom without laws…. God wrote His Commendments twice with His own finger. I think His Law is eternal, and will be written on our hearts.
There is a huge gap between what is written here (‘taste the bread, hear the trumpet etc) and the way most Christians celebrate even Christmas and Easter. Pentecost is just skimmed by, if it gets a mention at all. Mostly it just happens in church services which is very different to the Jewish experience.
Are you able to add suggestions as to how Christians can engage with more that just their minds and involve the body and soul as well? There are a few good books with ideas but where can people reach out to learn more?
Alison, thanks! i will try to add more meat to this article in the coming days.
Hi Alison, interesting comment from you. In the Catholic church, how it is celebrated, Pentecost is the third big feast after Easter and Christmas. In what church are you?
Hi dr Eli – this was a very good read ( outstanding) and a lot of detail / depth … will have to read again / again so it can sink in – thank you for the article 👌
Blessings!
Wow. This is exactly how I hear the Spirit the Ru’ach. For we shall be joined in unity, yet the diversity of how gentiles and Jews are brought together is what we should strive to achieve. For the law is and has never been abolished. Covenant believers we should be. We love and love for the God of creation. The God of Avraham, Yishach and Yacob.
Blessings!
Dr Eli, these articles are interesting, and combining them and the reactions (that I read also), I have the impression that reformed people have maybe more questions on liturgy and feasts than Orthodox and Catholic usually have.
Dr Eli, do you see a difference when addressing these topics with reform3d, orthodox and catholics, and if yes, do you think it is because their liturgies includes more items from the Hebrew traditions, even down to some details as oil, shabbat candles, lamb symbols? Or you don’t see a difference in your approach when talking to reformed churches, Orthodox and Catholic ones?
of course.
Given that Orthodox, Catholic and Anglican High Church communities have more liturgy items related to Hebrew liturgy (including details as oil, shabbat candles, lamb symbols, …) would there be a difference addressing them compared to adressing reformed communities?
of course. But in this blog I write for everyone as much as I can.
I am in awe and in tears!”I envisioned the New Jerusalem where Jews and Gentiles worship YHVH in awe and Reverent wonder. Todah Dr Eli! Blessings 🙌 🙌 🙌
Amen and amen!
Hi Dr. Eli. I was surprised and pleased that you wrote this article. I wish we could discuss this over a cup of tea or coffee.
I could be very wrong, but in my humble opinion is the title really the right question to ask? Should the question be more “Should Gentile Christians Celebrate All of the Feasts of the Lord Just Like the Jews?” Gentile Christians have already been celebrating the Spring festivals (which have been fulfilled by Jesus’ sacrifice) in their separate traditions. In my opinion, the Fall festivals can be commemorated however one chooses.
When the millenial reign is established, according to Ezekiel, will not both Jew and Gentile be observing some of the original festivals (Passover, Unleavened Bread, Sukkot) and a brand new one, the Feast of the New Year?
Ramon, you are making a valid point.
Another enjoyable and Credible read, my Dear Brother Eli in Christ.
What is current and seen by the Watchers, are the Signs of the Times since October 7, point to THIS Material World set on the Path to ARMAGEDDON, aka, The Battle of the Great Day of God Almighty between THEOCRATIC Israel vs THEOCRATIC Iran with US Christian Nationalist Religion mixed in.
Thank you.
Shalom,
Why, as a learned man of Hebrew background do you still use the word Lord?
For them that call me Lord Lord I will say to them, Depart from me for I do NOT know you.
If peole are going to “change the way they think” we are to learn the truth and the true names of our creator and the true name of the Messiach.
Deborah, the admonition in Matthew 7:20 says “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” The warning is not against using the word “lord”, but against hypocrisy. As He said, many of those who claim Jesus as Lord will enter heaven.
My Lutheran heritage celebrates several of those Feasts !!!
Indeed.
This is a great commentary and analysis. It reminds me of an early story in Boccaccio’s Decameron in which a father with a tremendously valuable stone and ring wants to give it to one of three sons but not give them reason to attach each other to own it. Solution; Have two more made so nearly perfectly identical that no one can tell the difference. It seems a wonderful allegory; we squabble over which “ring of the Book” is the real one, but we all try to follow the central precepts of love, hope, and charity.
Interesting. Thank you, Robert.
Greetings B’Shalom Dr Eli. There’s no way I’ll be able to respond in 150 words. Through your teachings I’ve figured out that I’m both a zealot, and a kind of radical in my beliefs. The 7th day from the beginning of creation, was set aside, and made Holy “for ALL mankind and throughout all His generations”, not only Israel, and NO man has any right to change the very first Holy Day (not a holiday) that Eloheinu made Kodesh. When you discover the truth of this, and apply it going forward, the Holy Days were never negated in the Bible, but by Konstantin at the second council at Nice in AD 325, where the “Jews'” Holy Days were negated by the Romans. We’re grafted Into Israel, not out
It is very possible that you are making a mistake connecting Sabbath (creation ordinance) to the Feasts of the Lord given to Israel. This connection is a necessity but a possibility.
It seems that Dr Eli still sees a division between Jew and Gentile. Both need to be born again and walk in Torah.
Well, Sarah, do you still see a division between male and female? If you do (and I hope you do), I do the same with Jews and Gentiles. In Christ, there is NO preference between Jews and Gentiles, males and females, BUT there is CLEARLY STILL a distinction. Otherwise, Sara, Mara, Eli, and Jonny can get married. 🙂
“It is very possible that you are making a mistake connecting Sabbath (creation ordinance) to the Feasts of the Lord given to Israel. This connection is a necessity but a possibility.”
If using “feasts” as a synonym for “appointed times”, as you do throughout this article, then how is Danny’s connection a mistake? In Leviticus 23:2 et seq., the connection is explicit. By referring to “holy days” (set-apart days), then Danny seems to be making exactly the connection that Leviticus 23 is making. What are we missing?
Dear Dr Eli,
I am a South african Christian and enjoyed your comments on the celebration of the feasts of the Lord.
Thank you very much.
Alex
Thank you for writing and sharing, Alex! Much success to your country. May the Lord shine his face upon it once again! soon!
Great explanation as always dr. Eli!! You probably have done this and I missed it but Im wondering what your position on the sabbath with gentiles is. I believe all should be on saturday since man changed the observance day for christians not God but would like to hear your thoughts.
Mike, perhaps, I would write on this one day.
The weekly 7th day Sabbath is not included in the non-obligatory feasts of the Lord. It is in the heart of the 10 Commandments, and is obligatory for all people, whether they know it or not. It is a memorial of creation and the only day that God made holy. God never changed the Sabbath from Saturday, the 7th day, to Sunday, the first day of the week. This is my understanding of what Scripture teaches on this subject. Blessings to all! Shalom!🙏🏻
I am with you on Cindy. I think that’s probably the right way to look at it. Let’s keep thinking.
I love your blogs Dr. Eli
Thank you, Christine!
Good morning, Dr. Eli…….
I would just share that one of the things that even most Messianic believers (Torah Keepers) don’t understand is that the reason for keeping the Feasts of the Lord is that these are NOT celebrations of the harvest of crops, but the “harvest” of folks! Look at what the Lord, himself says in Hosea 5:15 through 6:3 about when He is going to return and adds at the latter rain and then the former rain. I believe that Torah Keepers are going to be “harvested” first and then those at the Wheat Harvest and surely what the Parable of the Wheat and the Tares shows and why it should always be celebrated on Sunday since this is where you will find the “wheat and tares” gathered together in the “garden of the Lord” at their local church.
Your insight highlights a profound symbolic shift in understanding the Feasts. While traditionally tied to agricultural cycles, you rightly emphasize their deeper purpose as representing the harvest of souls. The reference to Hosea beautifully illustrates this, framing the rains as spiritual awakenings preceding divine return. Your interpretation of the Wheat and Tares parable further connects this, positioning Torah Keepers as an initial harvest. This view reframes the Feasts as a prophetic timeline for gathering believers, culminating in a spiritual harvest within the community of faith, rather than a mere celebration of earthly seasons.
I may not do all the traditional things that have been made for the Feast, but I do acknowledge each feast or holy day on the day because I feel we as any kind of believer need to know whats coming on God’s calendar. Just like you look at your calendar every day/ week. They are prophetic times set by our Father. We need to be watching and waiting with excitement for those special days.
Thank you, Sherry for your comment!
Spasibo brat Eli.Zamečateljno kak svegda za scitat i zapomnit.Esćo raz,spasibo!
Очень рад! Благословений!
I very much appreciate the opportunity to interact with you, Eli, and your essays. It is rare for readership to be invited to do any more than consume a finished product.
I will add a few comments here soon, but I will start off by suggesting that you dispense entirely (except for an initial explanatory section on why) with both “feast” and “firstfruits” because they have become so regularly and thoroughly misused that it obscures the actual Biblical instructions and meaning in many of these passages.
When I see mention of “The seven feasts” or “the three fall feasts”, I never know whether to laugh or shake my head. I’ve never met a Jew or Christian who feasts on Yom haKippurim.
Good point. Let me rethink who to rephrase that.
“Paul warned the Galatians against returning to the observance of “days and months and seasons and years,” seeing it as a potential step back (Gal 4:9–11).” My understanding of this is not your typical Christian thought that Paul is referring to God’s feasts/calendar that we are discussing here but that they were returning to the solstice and Saturnalia type pagan celebrations that the gentiles grew up with.
The context is them joining Israel through Christ + proselyte conversion (becoming fully Jewish). The later part is Paul, the Pharisee, who is against it.
We as Messianic believers and orthodox should know that it is matter of the heart. What does the spirit from within proclaim. For to celebrate feasts as they are is something that draws us close to YHWH.
We do not as gentiles have to partake of the ritual, but of the significance of the redemption of our Saviour.
Not by works, but in works we have faith.
Thank you for sharing
It seems “all” the teachers talk about the spring feasts being fulfilled at Jesus 1st coming and that He will fulfill the fall feasts at his 2nd coming, but I have learned that Jesus fulfilled all the feasts at His 1st coming (conceived on the 8th day of Hanukkah, baptized on Elul 1, 40 days of Teshuva in wilderness, star of Bethlehem on Trumpets, born on Tabernacles, circumcised on Shimini Atzeret, starting His ministry on Atonement and almost getting pushed off a cliff like the scapegoat, also transfigured on Atonement, so it would be a no brainer to me that He will fulfill all the feasts again at His 2nd coming.
Matt 26:29 I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.” (Future fulfillment of Passover).
What was fulfilled and what will be are debated, of course. Ultimately all of those things point to Jesus (so in that sense they are all fulfilled with Him).
I just wanted to ask if you ever studied the teaching the the late Rev. Sun Myung Moon’s teaching from its book Exposition of the Divine Principle?
Never heard of him. If you summarize it here, that would be good. What is his bottom line?
Moon started the Unification Church, or Moonies, or Holy Spirit Association for the Unification of World Christianity. He was famous for he mass weddings back 30 years ago. He declared himself the father of humanity and the Messiah, and wrote the Divine Principle as their bible-adjunct … and it goes downhill from there. Sort of a Korean Mormonism.
Thank ypu Dr ELi
Blessings, Dan!
I think all Gentiles, that believe in Yeshua as the King Messiah, should participate and enjoy of the Feasts of יהוה Elohim because it’s the way (Yeshua) to correctly worship the Only True Elohim. Also is the walk and confirmation of their faith in the God of Abraham, Isaac and Yaakov the One that created the heavens and the earth…
All the richness, deep meanings and the fulfillment of the Jewish and all the Goyim’s Messiah, are in the joy and cellebration of the Feasts. It’s the way we all will worship him in the eternity. AlleluYah
I agree. Should. But not because Jesus did it. Acts 15 states that Gentiles are not required to follow the law, but Jesus underwent circumcision and adhered to it to the fullest extent possible.
You write “Paul warned the Galatians against returning to the observance of “days and months and seasons and years,” seeing it as a potential step back (Gal 4:9–11).” I think there is another way to understand Paul here. He is not writing to Jews but Gentiles. The days and months and seasons would not have been God’s feasts but all the pagan feasts such as Saturnalia and many others. I think this makes more sense of the context given who is receiving this letter.
Bob, thank you. Yes, it is possible, but I don’t take this view. Think about it. this would mean that Paul allows and encourages freedom to continue celebrating these pagan sacred times. The context here is proselyte conversion, so this is why I take my view in the end. But it is very healthy to think of other options!
I think we should take another look and go deeper in Acts 15. Yaakov / James says:
19 Therefore, it is my judgment that we do not cause trouble for those from the Gentiles who are turning to God, 20 but that we write to them that they abstain from things contaminated by idols, from acts of sexual immorality, from what has been strangled, and from blood. 21 For from ancient generations Moses has those who preach him in every city, since he is read in the synagogues every Sabbath.”
Synagogues in first century outside of Judea especially are not exclusively Jewish institutions yet.
Goy should start keeping 3 fundamental misvot: 1) abstain from things contaminated by idols 2) abstain acts of sexual immorality 3) abstain from strangled, and from blood. And The other misvot they will learn it every Shabbat in the sinagoges where the Torah that Adonoy gave to Moses is read. The idea is start with the basics, most common commandments to avoid most common sins, and later on, step by step the other instructions so they will not feel overwhelm… Shalom, blessed is He
Doesn’t Bob Spies’ interpretation make more logical sense, though, in the context of Gal 4:9 ?
Paul asks (slight paraphrase) “Having known God and been known by God, how can you return to the weak and beggarly principles to which you desire go again be enslaved?”
If he is warning converted proselytes, who were believers in and followers of the Jewish Christ even prior to ritual conversion, then to what “weak and beggarly principles” could he be referring? Do we really believe that Paul would refer to YHVH’s appointed times using these words?
But it is easy to believe that Paul would refer to pagan practices as “weak and beggarly”, is it not?
Here is the context – https://drelisblog.com/galatians-within-first-century-judaism/
Your link goes to a different article (Allegory of Sarah and Hagar) and the Galatians article can not be found when using the search tool on your site. However, I did find it archived at The Wayback Machine:
https://web.archive.org/web/20260104015157/https://drelisblog.com/galatians-within-first-century-judaism/
I replaced content and renamed the article. It is essentially the same, but is now more focused.
Shalom Doctor Eli,
I am enjoying my Biblical Hebrew Course at the Israel Institute of Biblical Studies. It is such a blessing to have the ability to connect with you and to be treated with the personal touch that you, the instructors, and the rest of the staff at the Israel Institute of Biblical Studies provide. Thank you for all that you do for the world!
Blessings in Yeshua,
Justin Ebe
So happy to hear that! Success! Learning Hebrew is not easy but is trully rewarding!
I see the purpose of these 4 regulations to be for the purpose of allowing table fellowship and intermarriage between Gentiles and Jews. “You will do well to avoid these things,” not “You must…” To say that these are just the “start” of adding other laws is to add works to faith — which completely goes against the whole point of the Jerusalem Council’s decision.
Dr Eli, “House of Gold”TABERNACLE IN THE WILDERNESS, Typology 1-3. Are parts of our courses in our Seminary. Israelites are missionaries by Divine Providence. Keep up the good work sir. Bravo to you
Thank you, my brother!
I can enjoy these as a Christian, but I’m not bound by them. I stand in awe of God’s design and prophetic pattern.
Insightful. Thank you sir!
Blessings and peace!
Great insights and interesting article Dr Eli
Enjoy!
I remember the first time I read the bible from cover to cover when I was about 9. And fear gripped me when I thot I was a bad person for consuming crabs, prawns etc & told my mum we should not be eating these as they are unclean. My mum didn’t challenge me.
Of late the questions of the feasts & whether I should be observing it kept popping up. Because it’s a call for remembrance of God’s goodness – like the Passover.
I thank God for your article, Dr. Eli. God has indeed blessed you with His wisdom to look into this topic as a whole & present it with backing from scripture.
What comes to mind, the case of food; in the new heaven, there would not be any animals killed – just as God intended at creation.
God bless you & the work that you do, Dr. Eli.
Blessings and peace!
Thankyou Dr.Eli, now I saw how relevant and connected is the different holidays and feasts in Leviticus with the features you explained beautifully. Your expounsion is a sermon itsrlf, many thanks
Enjoy!
Hallelujah! Beautifully written and said sympathetically. I was reminded of the verse in Luke on the road to Emmaus ch 24:27. ‘And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.’
It’s all about Yeshua.
Many thanks Dr. Eli I am deeply encouraged with this.
Thank you for your encouragement and support, Phil!
I see Zechariah’s vision suggesting that there is a requirement in the age to come to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles, so I’m not sure why the gentile church ignores this in favor of reclaimed pagan feasts of Christmas and Easter. In theory as a Christian, the tabernacles feast is about God tabernacling with us. How wonderful is that? I hope you see my point.
Shalom and I enjoy your posts tremendously !
Hi, Jim. Indeed, the paganism associated with Christmas and Easter is not black and white. For example, Easter (has nothing to do with Ishtar as ignorant minds proposed); in Aramaic, for example, this VERY holiday is called PASCHA (which is, of course, an Aramaic version of Peisach). I am just saying that it is far more complicated than your comment makes it sound. There is no question that Easter Bonny does not belong in this ancient Christian celebration of the ressurection of the Jewish Christ.
Truly, Dr Eli in his profound knowledge and understanding of the Jewish Christ assure us that the teachings of our own Popes, Francis and Leo Leo, and our own devotions to Jesus and Mary , do not contradict the basic foundations of what the Torah taught us…thank you. Dr Eli.
That’s wonderful to hear!
God bless you and your work, This is one of the hot topic among christian theology. You give me a best and balanced explanation and clarity!
Thank you and blessings!
I really think different wording is called for.
The festivals are not simply called Moedim (appointed times). Shabbat is called a moed (Lev. 23:2-3). All together, we have about 60 moedim each year.
There are 3 pilgrimages/festivals/feasts/chagim Matzot, Shavuot, Sukkot, and [post-Numbers-9] Pesach).
“Firstfruits”/Bikkurim is not a chag. It is Shavuot (see Num. 28:26).
While Yom Teruah (trumpets) is a moed and no-work-day, it is not called a festival/chag.
The same is true for Yom haKippurim (atonements).
Some of this confusion stems form Jewish tradition, but a lot of it stems from Christian accidental or purposeful misreading in order to establish prophetic fulfullments and expectations.
If the goal is to enlighten Christians using Hebrew scripture, then it seems counterproductive to use all this Chiristian mis-wording. Give it to us like it is! 🙂
You are right, but I still think it is very helpful to focus on these top seven. You know me, not for eschatological frenzy.
I fully agree about the helpfulness. One cannot, after all, *focus* on “everything*.
The appointments are important already, because YHVH himself put them on our calendar. All of his moedim/appointments are important, and I look forward to your future article regarding the other appointment (Shabbat).
All remind us to look back at certain special events and to be thankful for certain present/future ones.
And yet, of these, only 3 (nay, 4) are separated out as “feasts” in the texts of scripture. If you have the words and time available, I believe your article would be enhanced by exploring that distinction. This, in summary, is what i was trying to explain.
Neville, let’s talk further about it. I will whatsapped you.
[Part 1 of 2]
It seems clear to me that Christians today are sojourners (gerim) just as were the non-Israelites of the Exodus. We follow and subordinate ourselves to YHVH, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, but we are not Israelites by heredity or ritual conversion.
The “laws for sojourners” seem to be more extensive than the four [sexual and idolatry-related] abstentions of Acts 15 (sometimes weakly linked to Lev. chs 17-18), although this partially depends on the understanding of the phrase “within your gates/towns/cities”
[to be continued…]
[Part 2 of 2]
Here are a few examples:
Punishment re. killing: Leviticus 24:21-22
Sabbath: Exodus 20:10 etc (the ger/sojourner within your gates/towns/cities)
Passover: Exodus 12:49 (includes “the ger/sojourner among you”, albeit easily argued as voluntary)
Day of Atonement: Leviticus 16:29 “whether a native or a ger/sojourner”
Sexual matters: Leviticus 18:24-30 “not the native nor the ger/sojourner who lives among you” (note, applied to Canaanites even prior to Moses)
Together, these and other passages tell me that if you commit yourself to follow YHVH, you also sign up to the instructions and blessings just as native Israelites. Furthermore, per the Flood and the Cleansing of Canaan, YHVH requires certain behaviors some of which we know explicitly (e.g. Lev. passage above). Bottom line as I see it? The best idea for how to live is to follow YHVH’s instructions for how to live.
I agree. We are not just talking about 4 laws. Categories? Categories on the top of other things? Probably.
Thank you Dr. Eli. This is so good and so well written!
Ingrid, so wonderful to hear from you! Blessings!
1 of 1. Gal 1:8 refers to the time when the Galatians were under the control of false gods. Galatians 1:9-11 shows a sudden shift; now they recognize the God of Israel because Paul proclaimed the message of the reigning Christ to them. With Galatians, knowing the Israelite God would have meant understanding his festivals as well. The law and the festivals were given to the Israelites after they were liberated from Egypt, and the purpose of these celebrations was not to gain God’s favor, but to commemorate the actions God had already performed on their behalf. Going down memory lane, so to speak.
1 of 2. However, certain Judaizers would misuse the meaning of these festivals as a way to earn salvation, i.e., circumcision. “Let no one judge you,” is key to allow someone to choose whether or not to observe the “shadows”, without needing to seek favor from God, since God has already completed the task through Christ Jesus. Galatians 1:12; Paul was a Jew and was obligated to keep the law, as mentioned in Romans 4:11-16 and Acts 24:14. He did so with a deep understanding of celebrating the festivals, but without the need to gain favor from God.
agreed
Is Judaism just for Jewish people? I think not. Judaism gloifies God… and that’s for everyone.
According to the Rabbis, you are right; Judaism is not just for Jewish people. As for whether or not modern Judaism can truly glorify God without also accepting the Messiahship of Jesus, that’s a different question entirely.
So, Messianic Judaism?
Excellent article clears up a lot of misconceptions
So glad! Blessings!
I am so confused by Paul. He seems to talk in circles and I do not really understand fully how he saw the grafting that he spoke of. Even in Col. he goes on to codemn uncleaness, is he talking about ritual uncleaness that would come from eating unclean meats? This is after he appears to say that you shouldn’t worry about foods. He does clarify that he is talking about manmade rules, so is he just speaking against the traditions, and not the Law of Moses/God?
Thomas, I was also once VERY confused by him. So perhaps you are in good company. Read all articles in my section on PAUL on drelisblog.com. You will get it, I promise! He is actually sooooooooooooooooooooooooo simple!!!!
It’s all looks beautiful, festivals
Blessings!
Also doesn’t Lev. 17:13 imply that sojourners were also bound by the food laws?
And whatsoever man there be of the children of Israel, or of the strangers that sojourn among you, which hunteth and catcheth any beast or fowl that may be eaten;
The Holy Bible: King James Version, Electronic Edition of the 1900 Authorized Version. (Bellingham, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc., 2009), Le 17:13.
Doesn’t “that may be eaten” refer to the food declared clean by God?
Yes, your observation is theologically sound. Leviticus 17:13 strongly implies that resident aliens (gerim) were expected to abide by the fundamental distinction between clean and unclean animals—the core of the food laws—because they were part of the community and were subject to the laws concerning blood, which were directly tied to the act of eating permitted meat. The verse shows that the sojourner was not living in a separate moral or religious universe but was under the jurisdiction of God’s law in matters that affected the holiness of the community and the sanctity of life (blood). The phrase “that may be eaten” acts as a shorthand reference to the entire dietary legal framework established by God. But this topic is NOT what I wrote about :-), so perhaps another day.
That was great!!!!! Thanks so much.
Enjoy!
Excellent explanation and as we believe that story lives within us. A vision of all nations united in worship is eminent and we must value heavenly feasts to bring us not only close to each other but also to guide us to Divine Light and Love!
Everything is possible with Divine!
Thanks once again for your efforts and dedication to bring us all together.
Amen, Blessings!
I love the painting on this page. Who is the artist and what is the title of the painting?
I love how art can help us reflect on God’s word. Helps bring in focus spiritual teaching and concepts.
I use AI to create all my images. I first write an article. Then I ask AI to engineer a prompt based on my article. Then I ask a different AI (MidJourney AI) to create images. I usually make 4-12 images until I see what I like there. I choose something that, in my judgment, best connects with the content of the article.
Always great!
Always grateful!
I absolutely love how this is written. It really answered a lot of my questions. Than you for sharing this. It meant everything to me
Enjoy!
Dr. Eli, this is a wonderful and balanced study on the beautifully appointed feasts and the amazing “coming together” of Christians and Jews without the binding of the laws upon us! God’s grace and mercy toward us Gentiles and all inclusiveness in His plan of redemption and the fullness of His plan all the way to when Jesus comes again to dwell with us is very well presented here and I can’t thank you enough for your lovely exposition!!
So happy to hear that. Blessings, Ruth!
This was a well organized, well written, excellent presentation of why gentile believers may want to participate or at least acknowledge and observe in their own manner, the Feasts of the Lord, ordained by God in the Old Testament. I am sending a copy of this article to three or four pastors I know who definitely love and appreciate the nation of Israel and our Hebraic heritage. Thank you.
Wonderful! Sending my greetings in Jewish Christ along with it!
Dr. Eli, I’m in a different position. My ancestors were Anusim, Jews who were forcibly converted centuries ago. Yet some managed to retain some of their Jewish cultural/religious heritage. I have attended several churches, Messianic congregations, as well as Orthodox and Chabad congregations. The last two I did when I lived abroad, and I gravitate toward a more conservative approach. The rabbinical congregations seemed more of a better fit for me except that they don’t recognize Yeshua. I celebrate erev Shabbat alone and even light two candles. I do it not because I have to but because of the positive reasons associated with Shabbat. It’s similar to spending time alone with a king. Who wouldn’t be honored to do be able to do that? The most important aspect of Shabbat is total rest and focus on Yehovah and His Word.
Dear E M, Shalom! Remember what I wrote has to do with the members of the nations. If you trace your lineage to physical Israelites. It is different.
Dear Dr. Eli,
With all do respect , I believe your interpretation of the scriptures in Paul’s letter to the Colossians is taken out of context. Paul, in chapter 2 is clearly writing to former pagans who were observing the ways of the nations ; 2:4,8,18,20-22. Would the apostle Paul refer the Most High’s sabbaths or festivals as, “philosophy and empty deceit”(v8)? Or how about, “basic principles of the world” (v20) , and “commandments and doctrines of men” (v22)? However, Paul was encouraging new converts not to walk in condemnation when their former associates question their new way of living, i.e. food, drink, and moedim . Since all these things reveal who Yeshua is and that which is to be. The body of Messiah , has a duty to judge in righteousness, gentleness , and humility. With the Living Word as our guide.
Dear brother, shalom. You may have misidentified the “philosophy” in Colossians 2. Paul confronts a syncretistic threat combining Jewish observances with angel worship (v. 18)—mystical speculation, not Torah. He calls these “human tradition” because they’re being used to judge Gentile believers (v. 16). Since you’re already filled in Messiah (v. 10), don’t let anyone impose requirements suggesting you’re incomplete. The “shadow” language (v. 17) echoes Platonic thinking in the false teaching—Paul redirects to Messiah himself. I agree the feasts reveal Yeshua! Paul’s concern protects Gentile freedom, not condemns Jewish observance. He continued living as a Jew. The issue: are practices used as boundary markers to exclude those Messiah already fully included?
Thank you, Dr.Eli . I will look into your perspective in Colossians 2.
Concerning Acts 15, and the 4 commands (15:20) given to new believers in the Messiah from the nations… My question is , if those were the only mandated principles from the Torah that Gentiles are required to keep , why would Ya’kov say what he did in verse 21 ? “ For Moses has had throughout many generations those who preach him in every city, being read in the synagogue’s every Shabbat.” Does that not elude to the fact that as they- from the nations – continue to keep Sabbath and hear Moses – the Torah being preached, that they will learn what God requires of them and obey? Growing in Grace and knowledge. Thank you, Dr. Eli!
Shalom, Mathew. I may be wrong (one can almost never be sure when reconstructing history long gone), but synagogues in the Roman world were not yet exclusively Jewish institutions as they are today. Even the Sanhedrin (which we think of as the epicenter of Jewish ruling power) was a Roman institution (Jerusalem petitioned the Roman Senate to allow them to use this name). Synagogues were Roman community centers that Jews made a great use of; eventually the institution of the synagogue became exclusively Jewish, but not yet. By the way, the same is the case for the word “ecclesia”; it was not yet exclusively Christian, either.
Very Good, I am enjoying the real explanation of the Feast, I really enjoyed the meaningful conversation with you. I love it.
I need to study more from you to lead me and my people of Hela Province of Papua New Guinea 🇵🇬 through prophetic teaching like the one I read.
It is my honor and previlage to help.
Thank you very much Dr Lizorkin.
I am a Christian woman and I have this love for the Jewish nation since I was young – can’t explain it, though my Mom used to work for a Jewish family when I was a little girl. I never met them but I just loved them.
Also, I used to go to a Christian church where the Jewish calendar was followed and some of the feasts celebrated, though it was for a short time. I will continue to learn. Thank you once more.
God bless you, dear Angie!
I need to know shouldchristians celebrate their own Easter and Christmas or should,we celebrate Jewish festivals. I know that Christians celebrate on pagan days. I dont,want to acceptanything that goes against Gods ways.
Susan, Christians should celebrate Israelite Feasts in a Christ-centered way. As you can see, I am very careful in my wording. Easter in Christianity is Christian Passover (most people don’t know that from English, but in many, many other languages PASCHA is both Easter and Passover). Should Christians do Easter Bunny, etc.? My answer is no. But the Easter Bunny has nothing to do with Easter—the Yearly celebration of the resurrection of Yeshua the Messiah. We are called to celebrate our Risen King, not some eggs or bunnies! 🙂
Before accepting the true faith, a Jew was compelled to denounce the Jewish people and renounce any form of Jewish observance. Either he, or his sponsor if he were a child, was compelled to declare:
I renounce all customs, rites, legalisms, unleavened breads and sacrifice of lambs of the Hebrews, and all the other feasts of the Hebrews, sacrifices, prayers, aspersions, purifications, sanctifications and propitiations, and fasts, and new moons, and Sabbaths, and superstitions, and hymns and chants and observances and synagogues, and the food and drink of the Hebrews; in one word, I renounce absolutely everything Jewish, every law, rite and custom.
Cohn-Sherbok, D. (2000). Messianic Judaism (p. 6). Continuum.
What kind of “true faith” is it when a Jew, upon becoming a follower of Jesus, must take such an evil oath? 🙂 The oath represents the culmination of centuries of increasing hostility, where later Church authorities compiled a long list of practices for a convert to renounce. The early councils laid the groundwork by creating a separation, while much later documents, like the medieval “Oath of Abjuration,” demanded a total and personal repudiation. This approach ended up in the European Holocaust.
Do you use Gods calendar of seeing the new moon in Isreal as the new month or do you use the fixed calendar the Jews use?
I like how your question presupposes that “the Jews” and “Israel’s God” are somehow playing on opposing teams :-).
Good morning, Dr Eli….
One more thing I would like to mention here, that affects the Feasts and Shemitah cycles. The Jews subtracted 323 years from their calendar reckoning and didn’t tell anyone, but this is confirmed in the Book of Acts. And also the Jubilee cycles are not the same as Moshe was given on Mt Sinani. I call that the “prescribed” reckoning and the one they are keeping now as the “observed” reckoning. Both of those are important in order to calculate the exact timing of the 70th Week of Daniel. My book that I am working on and have been for about 40 years now, will deal with these issues in detail. Shalom! Randall
Shalom, Randall. I am not sure what to say about this. I don’t think I know enough to weigh in here. Blessings!