Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Exodus 12:1-14

Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Reading of Exodus 12:1-14

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Exodus 12:1-14 as a pivotal moment in the unfolding redemptive history, where God establishes the Passover as a sign and seal of His covenant grace. This passage is not merely historical but profoundly theological, showing God's sovereign deliverance of His chosen people from bondage, prefiguring the ultimate deliverance in Christ. The Passover lamb points forward to Christ, our Passover lamb, whose blood secures our redemption, fulfilling the covenant of grace initiated after the fall.

Key Language Decisions

The Hebrew term 'פֶּסַח' (pesach), commonly translated as 'Passover', signifies the act of passing over or sparing, highlighting God's sovereign protection and deliverance. The semantic range of 'זָכַר' (zakar), meaning 'to remember', underscores the covenantal nature of God's actions, where remembrance is not mere mental recall but a reaffirmation of His covenant promises. These language choices emphasize God's active covenantal faithfulness rather than human initiative.

Where Traditions Diverge

This Reformed reading differs from Dispensational interpretations, which often view Old Testament events as separate dispensations rather than unified under one covenant of grace. We emphasize the continuity of God's covenantal dealings, culminating in Christ, whereas Dispensationalists might separate the Old and New Covenants as distinct plans. This difference matters theologically because it affects how one understands the unity of Scripture and the centrality of Christ in all of redemptive history.

Pastoral Application

Pastors should emphasize God's sovereign grace in delivering His people, both in the Exodus and through Christ, our true Passover lamb. Congregants should be reminded of the assurance found in God's covenant promises, which are not dependent on human effort but on God's unchangeable decree. This passage calls us to trust in God's providential care and to see our salvation as rooted in His sovereign choice, encouraging us to live in gratitude and obedience to His will.

Cross-References: 1 Corinthians 5:7 - Christ as our Passover lamb; Hebrews 11:28 - By faith Moses kept the Passover; John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God; Matthew 26:28 - The blood of the covenant; Romans 5:9 - Justified by His blood

Doctrinal Connections: Covenant of Grace; Effectual Calling; Sovereign Grace; Limited (Definite) Atonement; Perseverance of the Saints