Good Morning.
And the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “This is the ordinance of the Passover: No foreigner shall eat it.” (Exodus 12:43)
The Hebrew word that is rendered “foreigner” is not the typical word used to translate “foreigner.” The term used denotes someone who has been alienated from the congregation of the LORD –- i.e. a pagan or an apostate. Those prohibited from partaking are those who are foreign to the concept of keeping God’s instructions. The Jewish commentator, Rashi, said it is understood to mean “the non-Israelite who has chosen not to enter the covenant of Abraham.”
Considering that there was a “mixed multitude” traveling with Israel through the wilderness, perhaps this was to address that there were “rabble” among them. In other words, maybe it was to address those among them who would not regard the Passover in the proper way. It would be akin to casting pearls among swine who would then trample it underfoot. Most likely this is the basis for Paul’s statement to those in Corinth:
“Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily [alt. “irreverently”], shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. For he that eats and drinks unworthily, eats and drinks damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.” (1 Corinthians 11:27-31)
When it comes to the LORD’s table — or for that matter, when it comes to the LORD — He is calling to all who desire to draw near to Him. However, all who say they wish to draw near aren’t always motivated by a hunger and thirst for righteousness. If we are to come to His table, we must be prepared to do so in an honorable way — in a way that honors Him and His holiness. Passover and all that is entails — recognizing the broken body and spilled blood of Messiah — is a family affair and is to be observed by those who are His family. Therefore let us always approach His table with thankfulness, respect and a willingness to conform to His Word as we are led by His Spirit.
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
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