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What Every Christian Needs to Know About Passover: What It Means and Why It Matters
For millennia, the Passover celebration has held so much meaning for the Jews, but other faiths are just beginning to grasp the depth of its significance.
For modern day Christians, who may be celebrating at home or at church, it is the Last Supper Jesus had with his disciples before giving his life for humanity.
Nevertheless, some fundamental questions about the celebration still trouble Christians. They
· Why should such an ancient custom matter to us?
· What is the proper way of observing this day?
· How can Jews and Christians work together to honor this occasion?
Popular speaker and religious writer, Rabbi Evan Moffic now seeks to answer these and other essential questions about the Passover in his book; "What Every Christian Needs To Know About What It Means And Why It Matters.'' A frequent speaker at churches large and small across the world, Rabbi Moffic brings a unique voice to Christian readers.
Indeed, the depth of understating regarding the Last Supper that he brings to this publication will completely alter how Christians prepare for Easter and mark Communion. Rabbi Moffic begins with Jewish history and the Hebrew Bible to demonstrate how these form the root of Christianity.
Some of the main principles he addresses in the book
· Jewish practices and observances and their influence on Christianity
· Jewish Passover Seder and how to integrate it into Christians' Easter preparation
· Root of numerous modern Christian practices, including the Eucharist and Communion
· Inspiration and wisdom of the Hebrew Scriptures
· Understanding and appreciation of the culture in which Jesus lived
If you are a modern Christian, who seeks to deepen your understanding of the faith you practice this book has it all.
Get your copy now, and see how Rabbi Moffic weaves together theology, history, Jewish practices and customs, and Christianity.
Click the "Add to Cart" button to order NOW!
For modern day Christians, who may be celebrating at home or at church, it is the Last Supper Jesus had with his disciples before giving his life for humanity.
Nevertheless, some fundamental questions about the celebration still trouble Christians. They
· Why should such an ancient custom matter to us?
· What is the proper way of observing this day?
· How can Jews and Christians work together to honor this occasion?
Popular speaker and religious writer, Rabbi Evan Moffic now seeks to answer these and other essential questions about the Passover in his book; "What Every Christian Needs To Know About What It Means And Why It Matters.'' A frequent speaker at churches large and small across the world, Rabbi Moffic brings a unique voice to Christian readers.
Indeed, the depth of understating regarding the Last Supper that he brings to this publication will completely alter how Christians prepare for Easter and mark Communion. Rabbi Moffic begins with Jewish history and the Hebrew Bible to demonstrate how these form the root of Christianity.
Some of the main principles he addresses in the book
· Jewish practices and observances and their influence on Christianity
· Jewish Passover Seder and how to integrate it into Christians' Easter preparation
· Root of numerous modern Christian practices, including the Eucharist and Communion
· Inspiration and wisdom of the Hebrew Scriptures
· Understanding and appreciation of the culture in which Jesus lived
If you are a modern Christian, who seeks to deepen your understanding of the faith you practice this book has it all.
Get your copy now, and see how Rabbi Moffic weaves together theology, history, Jewish practices and customs, and Christianity.
Click the "Add to Cart" button to order NOW!
224 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2015
31 people are currently reading
88 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
April 15, 2018
A really good basic introduction to Passover from a modern Jewish perspective written to Christians. This book was down to earth and easy to read but also really insightful--including a nugget that changed my life (not an understatement). I heard Rabbi Nordic on a podcast and knew that I wanted to read his books. I'm sure there are more hardcore books on the topic, but I was glad to have this one as my guide.
April 7, 2015
Well written, simple explanations, plus a Passover Dinner Guide to help you plan a special event for you, your family and some friends.
Rabbi Evan Moffic gives a clear explanation of what Passover means for the Jewish community and why they celebrate it in the ways that they do. I found the information very helpful and enlightening. I was interested in how some of the traditions were developed and the significance they have. Such as, "during the Passover meal, when the plagues are recounted, we let a drop of wine fall from our wineglasses for each plague. For the final plague, we let two drops spill. The drops represent the tears of the Egyptians. They suffered because of their despotic leader, and we respond with empathy." (Found on Page 13)
That was an interesting insight, they respond with empathy. How often do we respond with empathy for one of our enemies or even someone whom we just happen to dislike?
Chapter four, Cleanse Your Spirit and Cleanse Your Kitchen. This is an interesting chapter in drawing some distinctions to the Passover Feast and the preparation leading up to and the Protestants season of Lent leading up to Holy Week. Both are intended to prepare the individual for a Spiritual Experience in remembering the history of the culture and the history of What God Has Done! For the Jew it is the rescuing out of Egypt, for the Protestant it is the rescuing out of a sin nature.
What I found a bit disheartening in Chapter four was what appeared to be a legalistic cleansing of the house by making sure that there is no Leaven anywhere in the home, no where! Yes, the Jew's made bread without Leven for the first Passover, but that was because time was of the essence. Now it seems as though they search out and remove Leaven for weeks to make sure there is none in the home. That seems a bit drastic, but at least Rabbi Moffic explains why they do it and how it helps prepare them.
I liken it to this, once we have come to know of Christ and His work on the Cross do we search our heart and soul for the areas where sin is hiding so that we can drag it up and offer it to the Lord as a sacrifice to cleanse us. The issue are the same, but I fear the legalism that can happen.
All in all this was a great book. I especially like the guidelines in Chapter 10, Celebrating The Passover Seder Yourself. It gives a clear and direct guide on how the dinner should be observed and how the leader should guide the participants. If you have ever wanted to host a Passover Seder this would be a good guide for you.
I'm sorry I posted the review after Holy Week, but I think that it will be a good book for every Christian who truly wants to have a more thorough understanding of Passover.
Rabbi Evan Moffic gives a clear explanation of what Passover means for the Jewish community and why they celebrate it in the ways that they do. I found the information very helpful and enlightening. I was interested in how some of the traditions were developed and the significance they have. Such as, "during the Passover meal, when the plagues are recounted, we let a drop of wine fall from our wineglasses for each plague. For the final plague, we let two drops spill. The drops represent the tears of the Egyptians. They suffered because of their despotic leader, and we respond with empathy." (Found on Page 13)
That was an interesting insight, they respond with empathy. How often do we respond with empathy for one of our enemies or even someone whom we just happen to dislike?
Chapter four, Cleanse Your Spirit and Cleanse Your Kitchen. This is an interesting chapter in drawing some distinctions to the Passover Feast and the preparation leading up to and the Protestants season of Lent leading up to Holy Week. Both are intended to prepare the individual for a Spiritual Experience in remembering the history of the culture and the history of What God Has Done! For the Jew it is the rescuing out of Egypt, for the Protestant it is the rescuing out of a sin nature.
What I found a bit disheartening in Chapter four was what appeared to be a legalistic cleansing of the house by making sure that there is no Leaven anywhere in the home, no where! Yes, the Jew's made bread without Leven for the first Passover, but that was because time was of the essence. Now it seems as though they search out and remove Leaven for weeks to make sure there is none in the home. That seems a bit drastic, but at least Rabbi Moffic explains why they do it and how it helps prepare them.
I liken it to this, once we have come to know of Christ and His work on the Cross do we search our heart and soul for the areas where sin is hiding so that we can drag it up and offer it to the Lord as a sacrifice to cleanse us. The issue are the same, but I fear the legalism that can happen.
All in all this was a great book. I especially like the guidelines in Chapter 10, Celebrating The Passover Seder Yourself. It gives a clear and direct guide on how the dinner should be observed and how the leader should guide the participants. If you have ever wanted to host a Passover Seder this would be a good guide for you.
I'm sorry I posted the review after Holy Week, but I think that it will be a good book for every Christian who truly wants to have a more thorough understanding of Passover.
February 24, 2015
Many years ago I attended a Jews for Jesus event and I have always been struck by the soul of the Jewish people. How they have preserved and the ties they have in our Christian faith. As we Christians, we are grafted in because of the Jewish rejection of Christ as the Messiah.
So I ask, did they stumble in order that they might fall? By no means! Rather through their trespass salvation has come to the Gentiles, so as to make Israel jealous. Romans 11:11.
I have never attended a Seder Passover meal, however, after reading this account that is geared towards the Christian by a Jewish Rabbi Evan Mafic; I would be blessed to as I would experience the life of Jesus as he shared in the Passover.
The book goes into the account the history of the Passover and the symbolism of the meal itself. It is rich indeed and very insightful. The Passover offers the individual and community hope as it always ends as the promise of peace in Jerusalem. The Passover meal is to be experienced by all. Rich in tradition that offers a glimpse of God’s plan of redemption and His promise fulfilled to the nation of Israel. The tradition brings transcendence into a simple meal that takes intentional preparation beforehand. The books goes over the preparation and also the why of each step. The Jewish blessings and the meal itself as the people are minded by ritual, that there is a personal relationship between God and His people, that God’s blessing of God’s people is central to the covenant or relationship between them, and that the blessing (what is said before each part of the meal, drink and food) is the way that the Jewish people respond to God. Just as Christians, Jesus requires a response.
There are many things in this book that intrigued me, made me a little uncomfortable, and encouraged me. I will make a comment on each. I was intrigued by the burning bush. There is more that is described than what Christians are familiar with. I was uncomfortable about the mystical of the Jewish beliefs. I was more encouraged than anything and one item is the value that the Jewish people have on freedom. That we have freedom in our dependence on God alone and the responsibility that comes with it.
I also appreciated Rabbi Mafic desire to teach Christians in a very respectable manner.
A special thank you, Abingdon Press
and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
So I ask, did they stumble in order that they might fall? By no means! Rather through their trespass salvation has come to the Gentiles, so as to make Israel jealous. Romans 11:11.
I have never attended a Seder Passover meal, however, after reading this account that is geared towards the Christian by a Jewish Rabbi Evan Mafic; I would be blessed to as I would experience the life of Jesus as he shared in the Passover.
The book goes into the account the history of the Passover and the symbolism of the meal itself. It is rich indeed and very insightful. The Passover offers the individual and community hope as it always ends as the promise of peace in Jerusalem. The Passover meal is to be experienced by all. Rich in tradition that offers a glimpse of God’s plan of redemption and His promise fulfilled to the nation of Israel. The tradition brings transcendence into a simple meal that takes intentional preparation beforehand. The books goes over the preparation and also the why of each step. The Jewish blessings and the meal itself as the people are minded by ritual, that there is a personal relationship between God and His people, that God’s blessing of God’s people is central to the covenant or relationship between them, and that the blessing (what is said before each part of the meal, drink and food) is the way that the Jewish people respond to God. Just as Christians, Jesus requires a response.
There are many things in this book that intrigued me, made me a little uncomfortable, and encouraged me. I will make a comment on each. I was intrigued by the burning bush. There is more that is described than what Christians are familiar with. I was uncomfortable about the mystical of the Jewish beliefs. I was more encouraged than anything and one item is the value that the Jewish people have on freedom. That we have freedom in our dependence on God alone and the responsibility that comes with it.
I also appreciated Rabbi Mafic desire to teach Christians in a very respectable manner.
A special thank you, Abingdon Press
and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
March 2, 2015
What Every Christian Needs to Know about Passover: What It Means and Why It Matters by Evan Moffic was a quick and interesting read. This book was written in such a way that any layman could understand it. The author spoke of Old and New Testament teachings and the significance and meaning behind certain religious practices.
Upon reading this book, I can say that I was definitely intrigued with the level of importance placed on the components associated with the Seder. There was certainly a richness of meaning and beauty linked to each aspect. I have wanted to learn more about the Jewish culture, the lifestyle and practices of the "ancients," etc., so this was a fair introduction of sorts.
While this book was acceptable, I would have liked to go a bit deeper with learning. Some of my questions were answered and some food for thought was provided. In truth, it made me want to know even more.
Upon reading this book, I can say that I was definitely intrigued with the level of importance placed on the components associated with the Seder. There was certainly a richness of meaning and beauty linked to each aspect. I have wanted to learn more about the Jewish culture, the lifestyle and practices of the "ancients," etc., so this was a fair introduction of sorts.
While this book was acceptable, I would have liked to go a bit deeper with learning. Some of my questions were answered and some food for thought was provided. In truth, it made me want to know even more.
March 13, 2025
Engaging and approachable, enjoyably written overview of many of the traditions and details behind Passover that Christians are likely unfamiliar with. I really liked the descriptions of the symbolic elements of the meals, and especially appreciated Moffic's attempt to draw devotional applications and spiritual truths out of the various symbols. He occasionally veers into (in my opinion) quasi-nationalistic musings on the connections between Exodus and the founding of America, and while I was a bit uncomfortable with some of these reflections, he does also draw connections between Exodus and the stories of other peoples across the globe and history.
In general, this is interesting, super easy to read, and informative, if not paradigm-busting. Worth reading alongside deeper works on the history of Passover/Pesach/Seder/Last Supper.
In general, this is interesting, super easy to read, and informative, if not paradigm-busting. Worth reading alongside deeper works on the history of Passover/Pesach/Seder/Last Supper.
April 22, 2019
Great book! Rabbi Moffic always writes in such an accessible style. I wish there had been a bit more detail in some sections, as there were a few questions I had that weren't addressed. As a primer, this was fantastic to read in the weeks before Passover. Didn't realize until I finished the book, but there are discussion questions for each chapter that would be great to use in a small group or with a friend. I also really liked the Haggadah that is included--would love to use this in the future.
March 21, 2021
Wonderful book. I have learned so much.
Rabbi Moffic’s invitation from page xv resonates with me.
“ I passionately believe that religious and spiritual people can learn from traditions different than our own.”
The Introduction, Why Passover Matters to Christians, says it all. I feel changed and spiritually strengthened by this book. It helped me feel the connection between Passover and the atonement of Jesus Christ on a deeper level.
Rabbi Moffic’s invitation from page xv resonates with me.
“ I passionately believe that religious and spiritual people can learn from traditions different than our own.”
The Introduction, Why Passover Matters to Christians, says it all. I feel changed and spiritually strengthened by this book. It helped me feel the connection between Passover and the atonement of Jesus Christ on a deeper level.
March 22, 2018
An easy to understand guide to Passover for Christians and anyone else who wants to gain an understanding of the meaning of Passover. The book also contains detailed instructions for preparing for a Seder, and a Haggadah that can be used at the Seder.
July 9, 2021
I really enjoyed learning about the Passover in more detail. For years I've thought I should learn more about the Jewish Understanding of passover. Now, I feel as if I should celebrate Passover myself.
April 30, 2024
Loved this book, especially the way Rabbi Moffic discussed freedom. We celebrate Passover every year and find so much depth and meaning in remembering the story of redemption that parallels our redemption from slaveery to sin. A wonderful perspective.
April 17, 2025
Seemed fitting! Was interesting to learn more about
February 25, 2015
MY REVIEW
I think almost every Christian should absolutely study the rituals involved in Passover. I plan to celebrate Passover with my Bible study group. However...
If you are looking for a book that delves deeply into all the signs that Passover illustrates about Jesus, then this book probably is not for you. While Rabbi Moffic does point out some of those illustrations, this is more about the Jewish mindset in Passover celebration. I was disappointed, actually.
It is clear that Moffic has a deeper understanding of the Catholic religion than Evangelical Christian beliefs. That is not necessarily a bad thing, but I was hoping to get insights from an Evangelical point of view. Moffic even says he does not recommend conducting a sedar from a Christian viewpoint haggadah.
One great thing about this book is that you are given all you need to know about a Passover Sedar so you can celebrate it, too. There is a complete Haggadah (script, if you will) in the back of the book. You also receive many blessings from understanding the Jewish mindset. This will help any Christian to talk to a Jewish friend or acquaintance about Jesus. That is invaluable!
All in all I give this 4 stars out of 5.
ABOUT THE BOOK ...
Understand the Last Supper Jesus shared with his disciples and its ancient roots in the Jewish Passover, and discover what it can mean to a Christian celebration of Communion and Easter today.
The Passover was celebrated by Jesus and the disciples the last time they were together. Now popular speaker and writer Rabbi Evan Moffic brings an understanding to the Last Supper that will forever change how Christians celebrate Communion and prepare for Easter. Beginning with the Hebrew Bible and Jewish history, Rabbi Moffic shows how these inform the roots of Christianity as he weaves together history, theology, Jewish practice and observances. Then he provides the background and resources for Christians seeking to experience an authentic Jewish Passover Seder and integrate it into their own preparation for Easter. Rabbi Moffic brings an informed and ancient perspective, explaining and bringing to life the source of so many of our modern Christian practices.
By exploring and explaining the ritual and story surrounding the Jewish Passover, Rabbi Moffic shares with Christians the wisdom and inspiration of the Hebrew Bible—what Christians call the Old Testament—in a way that increases appreciation and understanding of the culture in which Jesus lived and taught. For contemporary Christians desiring to enrich their understanding of the faith they practice today, this book offers deeper understanding of their spiritual heritage shared with Judaism.
I think almost every Christian should absolutely study the rituals involved in Passover. I plan to celebrate Passover with my Bible study group. However...
If you are looking for a book that delves deeply into all the signs that Passover illustrates about Jesus, then this book probably is not for you. While Rabbi Moffic does point out some of those illustrations, this is more about the Jewish mindset in Passover celebration. I was disappointed, actually.
It is clear that Moffic has a deeper understanding of the Catholic religion than Evangelical Christian beliefs. That is not necessarily a bad thing, but I was hoping to get insights from an Evangelical point of view. Moffic even says he does not recommend conducting a sedar from a Christian viewpoint haggadah.
One great thing about this book is that you are given all you need to know about a Passover Sedar so you can celebrate it, too. There is a complete Haggadah (script, if you will) in the back of the book. You also receive many blessings from understanding the Jewish mindset. This will help any Christian to talk to a Jewish friend or acquaintance about Jesus. That is invaluable!
All in all I give this 4 stars out of 5.
ABOUT THE BOOK ...
Understand the Last Supper Jesus shared with his disciples and its ancient roots in the Jewish Passover, and discover what it can mean to a Christian celebration of Communion and Easter today.
The Passover was celebrated by Jesus and the disciples the last time they were together. Now popular speaker and writer Rabbi Evan Moffic brings an understanding to the Last Supper that will forever change how Christians celebrate Communion and prepare for Easter. Beginning with the Hebrew Bible and Jewish history, Rabbi Moffic shows how these inform the roots of Christianity as he weaves together history, theology, Jewish practice and observances. Then he provides the background and resources for Christians seeking to experience an authentic Jewish Passover Seder and integrate it into their own preparation for Easter. Rabbi Moffic brings an informed and ancient perspective, explaining and bringing to life the source of so many of our modern Christian practices.
By exploring and explaining the ritual and story surrounding the Jewish Passover, Rabbi Moffic shares with Christians the wisdom and inspiration of the Hebrew Bible—what Christians call the Old Testament—in a way that increases appreciation and understanding of the culture in which Jesus lived and taught. For contemporary Christians desiring to enrich their understanding of the faith they practice today, this book offers deeper understanding of their spiritual heritage shared with Judaism.
July 2, 2015
This is an interesting book written by a Jewish Rabbi for Christians. All his life, he has celebrated Passover meals, and sometimes suffered through them when he was a boy and they tended to drag on.
It begins with a good overview of the Bible's two most famous Passovers; the first one ever, observed by Moses, Aaron and Miriam on that tense night when Egypt's first born males were killed, and the one directly before Jesus' crucifixion, when he became the Lamb of God. I wonder how many young or modern Christians may not twig that when we celebrate Communion, we're essentially celebrating the Passover too.
A great chunk of the book outlines how to prepare and celebrate a traditional Passover if we should ever want to. Wow, to say a lot of preparation is involved is a vast understatement. It's not just the normal rushing about everyone does before dinner parties, but making super certain that the house is completely clear of breadcrumbs and anything which may contain leaven. It gives me greater understanding of a lady from a non-Jewish background I read about, who had major panic attacks when it came to preparing Passover for her husband's Orthodox extended family.
The book delves into the significance of the central elements on the table, including the Seder Plate and the candles. It helps us understand how nothing slips through which isn't filled with rich symbolism, and the ritual objects are intended to connect those around the table to one another and to God. Although I've never felt brave enough to have one of my own, I've attended a couple organised by others. They were very special, and if you ever want to try your own Passover, this is the book you would want to refer to. I think what stood out to me most was that you wouldn't want to do it flippantly, but as a solemn, meaningful experience as it was always intended.
Thanks to NetGalley and Abingdon Press for my review copy.
It begins with a good overview of the Bible's two most famous Passovers; the first one ever, observed by Moses, Aaron and Miriam on that tense night when Egypt's first born males were killed, and the one directly before Jesus' crucifixion, when he became the Lamb of God. I wonder how many young or modern Christians may not twig that when we celebrate Communion, we're essentially celebrating the Passover too.
A great chunk of the book outlines how to prepare and celebrate a traditional Passover if we should ever want to. Wow, to say a lot of preparation is involved is a vast understatement. It's not just the normal rushing about everyone does before dinner parties, but making super certain that the house is completely clear of breadcrumbs and anything which may contain leaven. It gives me greater understanding of a lady from a non-Jewish background I read about, who had major panic attacks when it came to preparing Passover for her husband's Orthodox extended family.
The book delves into the significance of the central elements on the table, including the Seder Plate and the candles. It helps us understand how nothing slips through which isn't filled with rich symbolism, and the ritual objects are intended to connect those around the table to one another and to God. Although I've never felt brave enough to have one of my own, I've attended a couple organised by others. They were very special, and if you ever want to try your own Passover, this is the book you would want to refer to. I think what stood out to me most was that you wouldn't want to do it flippantly, but as a solemn, meaningful experience as it was always intended.
Thanks to NetGalley and Abingdon Press for my review copy.
January 5, 2016
Rabbi Moffic is awesome. I read his other book What Every Christian Needs to Know about the Jewishness of Jesus on NetGalley and immediately put this on my to read list. It did not disappoint. Rabbi Moffic walks the reader through Passover ancient Temple style and rabbinic aka modern style. He uses a lovely conversational friendly tone but still packs a lot of Jewish theology and explanation into the text. Helpful study guide and handbook for Christians who want to celebrate Passover in at the end as well. This is clearly written for the low church evangelical crowd in mind as many of the passages on rituals and marriage covenantal language is meant for an audience who has left this behind. As a Catholic reader, that language and meaning of ritual and fully engaged senses in worship could be further developed as it is common currency. Lovely book for any curious reader.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews