What Was the Preparation Festival in the Bible?
The Preparation Festival, also known as the Day of Preparation, is a significant event mentioned in the New Testament in the context of the crucifixion and burial of Jesus Christ. The term “Preparation Festival” comes from the Greek word παρασκευή (paraskeuḗ), meaning “preparation.” This day holds deep theological and historical significance as it marks the day before the Sabbath, specifically the day when preparations were made for the Sabbath observance.
Biblical References to the Preparation Festival
The Preparation Festival is specifically mentioned in relation to the events leading up to and following Jesus’ crucifixion in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
Matthew 27:62
In this passage, it is noted that “the next day, the one after Preparation Day, the chief priests and the Pharisees went to Pilate.” This was the day after Jesus was crucified, indicating that the crucifixion took place on the Day of Preparation.
Mark 15:42
Mark states, “It was Preparation Day (that is, the day before the Sabbath). So as evening approached,” emphasizing that Jesus was crucified and his body was taken down from the cross on the Preparation Day.
Luke 23:54
Luke records, “It was Preparation Day, and the Sabbath was about to begin.” This context highlights the urgency of burying Jesus before the Sabbath started.
John 19:14
John describes, “It was the day of Preparation of the Passover; it was about noon.” This indicates that Jesus’ crucifixion occurred on the day when preparations for the Passover were being made, underscoring the significance of the timing.
John 19:31
John further emphasizes, “Now it was the day of Preparation, and the next day was to be a special Sabbath.” The Jewish leaders did not want the bodies to remain on the crosses during the Sabbath, so they requested that the legs of those crucified be broken to hasten death.
John 19:42
Finally, John notes, “Because it was the Jewish day of Preparation and since the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there.” This was done to ensure Jesus was buried before the Sabbath began.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Fulfillment of Prophecy
The timing of Jesus’ crucifixion on the Day of Preparation underscores the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. This providential timing highlights God’s meticulous plan for salvation through Jesus Christ. Modern Christians can draw confidence in the reliability of God’s Word and His sovereign control over history. As Paul states in Galatians 4:4-5, “But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.”
The Importance of Preparation
The Day of Preparation reminds Christians of the importance of spiritual readiness. Just as the Jews prepared for the Sabbath, believers are called to prepare their hearts and lives for Christ’s return. This preparation involves living a life of holiness, obedience, and devotion to God. 1 Peter 1:13 encourages, “Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.”
The Sacrificial Lamb
The timing of Jesus’ crucifixion on the Day of Preparation for the Passover draws a powerful parallel between Jesus and the Passover lamb. Just as the Passover lamb was sacrificed to save the Israelites from death, Jesus, the Lamb of God, was sacrificed to save humanity from sin and eternal death. This connection reinforces the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice and its foundational role in Christian faith. John 1:29 states, “The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!'”
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Sovereignty and Providence
The events of the Day of Preparation demonstrate God’s sovereignty and providence. God orchestrated the crucifixion of Jesus at the perfect time to fulfill His redemptive plan. This assures believers that God is in control of their lives and that He works all things according to His purpose. Romans 8:28 reassures, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
God’s Love and Sacrifice
The Preparation Festival underscores the depth of God’s love for humanity. By sacrificing His only Son, God demonstrated His immense love and commitment to redeeming His creation. This love calls believers to respond with gratitude, worship, and a commitment to living for Him. 1 John 4:9-10 declares, “This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.”
Connection to Jesus Christ
Jesus’ Obedience and Sacrifice
The Day of Preparation highlights Jesus’ obedience to the Father’s will, even unto death. His willingness to endure the cross serves as the ultimate example for believers. Christians are called to follow Jesus’ example of obedience and self-sacrifice. Philippians 2:8 says, “And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!”
The Hope of Resurrection
The events of the Preparation Festival also point to the hope of resurrection. Jesus’ burial on the Day of Preparation set the stage for His glorious resurrection on the third day. This resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian faith, providing hope for eternal life. 1 Corinthians 15:20-22 proclaims, “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.”
Conclusion
The Preparation Festival, or Day of Preparation, is a significant event in the New Testament, marking the day before the Sabbath when Jesus was crucified and buried. This day underscores the fulfillment of prophecy, the importance of spiritual readiness, and the sacrificial love of God through Jesus Christ. For modern Christians, the Preparation Festival serves as a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty, the necessity of living a prepared and holy life, and the hope of resurrection through Jesus Christ. Reflecting on this event encourages believers to deepen their faith, trust in God’s providence, and live in anticipation of Christ’s return.