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7 Feasts: Finding Christ in the Sacred Celebrations of the Old Testament
What’s the story behind all those feasts?
It’s hard to know when you read about the Feast of Booths why exactly it matters for your life. What in the world is the Feast of Trumpets supposed to be teaching you? And, in this case, the text itself doesn’t tell you. You need a resource, a guide that can help you understand the cultural significance and how these feasts relate to the rest of the Bible.
That’s exactly what Erin Davis does in this new Bible study, 7 Feasts. She’ll teach you:
The significance of these feasts and why God wanted His people to celebrate
How each of them point to Jesus and His work in redemption
Why all of this matters for our lives today
You will discover that passages you once skimmed over are now rich and meaningful in your life today.
It’s hard to know when you read about the Feast of Booths why exactly it matters for your life. What in the world is the Feast of Trumpets supposed to be teaching you? And, in this case, the text itself doesn’t tell you. You need a resource, a guide that can help you understand the cultural significance and how these feasts relate to the rest of the Bible.
That’s exactly what Erin Davis does in this new Bible study, 7 Feasts. She’ll teach you:
The significance of these feasts and why God wanted His people to celebrate
How each of them point to Jesus and His work in redemption
Why all of this matters for our lives today
You will discover that passages you once skimmed over are now rich and meaningful in your life today.
304 pages, Paperback
Published June 2, 2020
46 people are currently reading
190 people want to read
About the author
Erin Davis
72 books58 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Erin Davis is a popular speaker, author, and blogger, Erin is passionately committed to sharing God's truth with others. She is the author of several books including Graffiti: Learning to See the Art in Ourselves, True Princess: Embracing Humility in an All About Me World, Beyond Bath Time, and the One Girl Series. Erin lives on a small farm in the midwest with her husband and kids. When she's not writing, you can find her herding goats, chickens, and children.
Erin Davis is a popular speaker, author, and blogger, Erin is passionately committed to sharing God's truth with others. She is the author of several books including Graffiti: Learning to See the Art in Ourselves, True Princess: Embracing Humility in an All About Me World, Beyond Bath Time, and the One Girl Series. Erin lives on a small farm in the midwest with her husband and kids. When she's not writing, you can find her herding goats, chickens, and children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
May 5, 2022
A great study tool to understanding who God is thru the Old Testament Feasts. Going thru each feasts and the purpose that the feast accomplish can set our heart on heavenly things. The feasts were given as an object lesson and application for the Jewish people. It also is a form of worship and devotion.
This is a great resource to learn about the Feasts and to dive deeper into God's word.
A special Thank you to Moody Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
February 11, 2020
First sentence: I learned from my grandma to love puzzles.
7 Feasts is a Bible Study drawn from a study of Leviticus 23. Intimidated by Leviticus? Don't be. For while the study theoretically should be largely drawn from Leviticus--this particular chapter--Davis pulls in texts from the Old Testament and New Testament that shed some light on what is being studied.
There is an introductory chapter about the importance of remembering and observing; included in this first week's study is the importance of handling Scripture rightly. Readers are taught six rules. (I'll quote them below). Then the subsequent seven chapters are about the seven feasts: The Passover, The Feast of Unleavened Bread, The Feast of Firstfruits, The Feast of Weeks, The Feast of Trumpets, The Day of Atonement, The Feast of Booths. Each week has five devotions or studies.
The six rules of handling Scripture rightly:
Rule #1: We let Scripture interpret Scripture. It is essential for us to interpret a passage in light of what the rest of Scripture says on the topic.
Rule #2: We pay close attention to context. Every word in the Bible is part of a verse. Every verse is part of a paragraph. Every paragraph is part of a book. Every book is part of the whole of Scripture. No verse of Scripture should be divorced from the verses around it.
Rule #3: Pause to consider what type of book or passage you’re reading. Here are some broad categories that can be used to help us understand the context of most Scripture passages: 1) Epistles or Letters 2) Gospels 3) Parables 4) Eschatology 5) Apocalyptic 6) Law 7) Historical Narrative 8) Hebrew Poetry 9) Prophecy 10) Wisdom
Rule #4: Try to discern the writer’s intentions when he wrote the text. A passage cannot mean something to us today that it was never intended to mean to the original audience. The Bible is unique in its timelessness.
Rule #5: Keep it simple. The Bible is not a book of riddles to be solved. God is not a God of confusion, but of clarity (1 Cor. 14:33). He has not spoken in order to conceal, but to be understood and known (Isa. 48:6, Jer. 33:3). When we open God’s Word, it is the plain meaning of the text we are seeking to understand.
Rule #6: Always take a God-centered approach. Avoid looking at Scripture primarily to better understand yourself or correct your actions. Ask yourself “What does this show me about God?” before you ask, “What does this tell me about me?” or “What should I do?” Right application of Scripture is only ever an outflow of right understanding of who God is.
These are rules that readers can take with them and use every time they read and study Scripture. These are also helpful rules when it comes to DISCERNING another person's preaching or teaching. If someone is telling you something is true that clearly violates one or more of these rules of how to interpret and understand Scripture--you can spot it.
The rules are definitely one of the most practical takeaways from reading the book.
The weekly studies. For better or worse. The studies keep thing very simple, very basic. The activities are definitely more about understanding the original context of the seven feasts and less on the actual details of the feasts and how specifically Christ is to be found. So if you come to this one specifically looking for Christ-types, Christ-symbols, talk of imagery, meaning, significance, etc., you might be disappointed. Or if you come seeking a geeky-guide to the actual feasts and how they were and how they are celebrated by Jews...you might be slightly disappointed.
That being said, what is here is of value and worth. The activities are more LOOK UP THESE SCRIPTURES, WRITE OUT THESE SCRIPTURES, WHAT IS BEING SAID, WHAT DOES THIS SAY ABOUT GOD, WHAT DOES THIS MEAN, etc. And the activities are not ridiculous me-centered activities. We don't get any of the absurd: WHAT DOES THIS VERSE MEAN TO YOU, WHAT DO YOU THINK THIS PASSAGE MIGHT MEAN, HOW DOES THIS MAKE YOU FEEL. The questions are solid enough that there's no wish-washiness.
The book definitely teaches about the doctrines of sin correctly. And the book is grounded in the gospel of truth and grace as laid out clearly in the Word of God.
There are definite application moments throughout the book.
7 Feasts is a Bible Study drawn from a study of Leviticus 23. Intimidated by Leviticus? Don't be. For while the study theoretically should be largely drawn from Leviticus--this particular chapter--Davis pulls in texts from the Old Testament and New Testament that shed some light on what is being studied.
There is an introductory chapter about the importance of remembering and observing; included in this first week's study is the importance of handling Scripture rightly. Readers are taught six rules. (I'll quote them below). Then the subsequent seven chapters are about the seven feasts: The Passover, The Feast of Unleavened Bread, The Feast of Firstfruits, The Feast of Weeks, The Feast of Trumpets, The Day of Atonement, The Feast of Booths. Each week has five devotions or studies.
The six rules of handling Scripture rightly:
Rule #1: We let Scripture interpret Scripture. It is essential for us to interpret a passage in light of what the rest of Scripture says on the topic.
Rule #2: We pay close attention to context. Every word in the Bible is part of a verse. Every verse is part of a paragraph. Every paragraph is part of a book. Every book is part of the whole of Scripture. No verse of Scripture should be divorced from the verses around it.
Rule #3: Pause to consider what type of book or passage you’re reading. Here are some broad categories that can be used to help us understand the context of most Scripture passages: 1) Epistles or Letters 2) Gospels 3) Parables 4) Eschatology 5) Apocalyptic 6) Law 7) Historical Narrative 8) Hebrew Poetry 9) Prophecy 10) Wisdom
Rule #4: Try to discern the writer’s intentions when he wrote the text. A passage cannot mean something to us today that it was never intended to mean to the original audience. The Bible is unique in its timelessness.
Rule #5: Keep it simple. The Bible is not a book of riddles to be solved. God is not a God of confusion, but of clarity (1 Cor. 14:33). He has not spoken in order to conceal, but to be understood and known (Isa. 48:6, Jer. 33:3). When we open God’s Word, it is the plain meaning of the text we are seeking to understand.
Rule #6: Always take a God-centered approach. Avoid looking at Scripture primarily to better understand yourself or correct your actions. Ask yourself “What does this show me about God?” before you ask, “What does this tell me about me?” or “What should I do?” Right application of Scripture is only ever an outflow of right understanding of who God is.
These are rules that readers can take with them and use every time they read and study Scripture. These are also helpful rules when it comes to DISCERNING another person's preaching or teaching. If someone is telling you something is true that clearly violates one or more of these rules of how to interpret and understand Scripture--you can spot it.
The rules are definitely one of the most practical takeaways from reading the book.
The weekly studies. For better or worse. The studies keep thing very simple, very basic. The activities are definitely more about understanding the original context of the seven feasts and less on the actual details of the feasts and how specifically Christ is to be found. So if you come to this one specifically looking for Christ-types, Christ-symbols, talk of imagery, meaning, significance, etc., you might be disappointed. Or if you come seeking a geeky-guide to the actual feasts and how they were and how they are celebrated by Jews...you might be slightly disappointed.
That being said, what is here is of value and worth. The activities are more LOOK UP THESE SCRIPTURES, WRITE OUT THESE SCRIPTURES, WHAT IS BEING SAID, WHAT DOES THIS SAY ABOUT GOD, WHAT DOES THIS MEAN, etc. And the activities are not ridiculous me-centered activities. We don't get any of the absurd: WHAT DOES THIS VERSE MEAN TO YOU, WHAT DO YOU THINK THIS PASSAGE MIGHT MEAN, HOW DOES THIS MAKE YOU FEEL. The questions are solid enough that there's no wish-washiness.
The book definitely teaches about the doctrines of sin correctly. And the book is grounded in the gospel of truth and grace as laid out clearly in the Word of God.
There are definite application moments throughout the book.
March 23, 2024
Great to learn about the 7 feasts in Leviticus that Israelites was told to observe each year.
April 17, 2020
Food brings people together. Whether it is breakfast, lunch, dinner, or any other time, it is always a good opportunity to meet people. In times of celebration, we feast and enjoy the lavish food. Across all countries, cultures, and communities, if there is any one timeless tradition, eating and drinking would be it. One of the best ways to understand the roots of this tradition is to learn from ancient cultures. Such historical surveys will inform the modern mind that there is really nothing new under the sun. Author Erin Davis takes the reader through seven Jewish feasts over an eight week period. For each week, there are five daily studies that we can accompany with a Bible, a pen, and some friends to ponder over the message. Instead of jumping straight into the feasts, Davis dedicates the first week to teaching some basics of how to rightly handle the Word of God. By providing some guidelines on how to read the Bible, readers are reminded to learn to handle the Word with care, before jumping into the text. Such reminders are necessary to warn us against spiritual amnesia. Gradually, she encourages us to change our pattern for living, in order to live out biblical principles in all that we do. After the first week of preparing the heart and mind, readers will then be ready to plunge into the study of the sacred celebrations of the Old Testament.
The first feast is the Passover. We learn about the origins of the sacrificial lamb as God's way of freeing Israelites from Egyptian slavery. Such a sacrifice is needed to cover our sins. We are made new and given a new lease of life. The second feast is the Feast of the Unleavened Bread, which comes the night after the Passover. We go through lessons to be aware of the dangers of sin which threaten our spiritual lives with Christ. The Feast of First-Fruits reminds us to give God our very best. The author guides us through various ways in which the gospel enables us to give our best to God. That is because God has led by giving us His very best. The Feast of Weeks is an opportunity to be grateful to God. While we are called to be grateful for all things at all times, it is helpful to sharpen our gratitude from time to time. This we can do during the remembrance of this period. We also learn not to be wimps but spiritual lions. The Feast of Trumpets celebrate the triumph of God. Like the horn of God that proclaims salvation and victory, we too rejoice to know that God's Kingdom has come and will come again. The Day of Atonement is that day when priests enter the holy of holies to atone for the sins of God's people. One cannot miss the significance of the atonement as each day of that week, we are reminded of the Perfect Atonement: Jesus Christ. The Feast of Booths is that 8-day celebration in autumn after harvest. We are told not to forget the benefits God has bestowed on us. In all of these feasts reminders, we see clearly how Christ completely fulfilled the essence of the feasts. He is the perfect Passover Lamb. He guides us away from sin. He shows us how to give thanks and to celebrate the triumph at the cross. He is the Perfect Sacrifice, the Perfect Example, and the Perfect Victory.
My Thoughts
==============
I appreciate Davis's many reminders about the nature of reading the Bible. Let me highlight three of them. First, I appreciate the reminder about how to handle the Word of God. There are some Christians who tend to be too hasty about reading the Bible. They jump in with a laserlike focus on what and how the text can benefit them. It is like saying to God, "Ok, what can YOU do for me!" attitude. Such a behaviour would lead one to eisegesis (reading our thoughts into the Bible) instead of exegesis (Drawing out the meaning from the Bible). Any Bible Study book will need to provide helpful guides not only for the novice but also the experienced Bible study group member. For the newbie, it is a welcome introduction to the world of Bible studies. For the experienced, it keeps us away from spiritual amnesia.
Second, I like the constant explicit reminders to the Person of Christ. For Jesus Himself has said that He came not to destroy the Law but to fulfill them. In Him, the Law is Perfectly satisfied. Thus, when we study the Old Testament and the feasts, we must remember to always come back to Jesus, who epitomizes the ultimate fulfillment of the purpose of the Law. Some feasts are easier to identify with Christ, like the Passover Lamb and the Day of Atonement.
Third, we are reminded to take what we learn and put them into practice. Davis leaves ample space for us to do just that. We are encouraged to take notes, to write down our thoughts, and to apply what we learn into our own lives. Through the discussion, not only can we expand on the meaning and applications, we can also hold one another accountable.
This short guide through the seven feasts is a creative way to bridge the historical Old Testament feasts with the New Testament focus on Christ. One will learn a lot just by going through the series. Davis did not give us a lot of background with regard to the feasts, but just enough for us to apply gospel eyes to the meaning and significance of the ancient rituals.
Erin Davis is popular speaker, author, and blogger who has authored several books such as Connected, Beyond Bath Time, and books in the My Name is Erin series. She contributes regularly to True Woman blog.
Rating: 4 stars of 5.
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of Moody Publishers and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
The first feast is the Passover. We learn about the origins of the sacrificial lamb as God's way of freeing Israelites from Egyptian slavery. Such a sacrifice is needed to cover our sins. We are made new and given a new lease of life. The second feast is the Feast of the Unleavened Bread, which comes the night after the Passover. We go through lessons to be aware of the dangers of sin which threaten our spiritual lives with Christ. The Feast of First-Fruits reminds us to give God our very best. The author guides us through various ways in which the gospel enables us to give our best to God. That is because God has led by giving us His very best. The Feast of Weeks is an opportunity to be grateful to God. While we are called to be grateful for all things at all times, it is helpful to sharpen our gratitude from time to time. This we can do during the remembrance of this period. We also learn not to be wimps but spiritual lions. The Feast of Trumpets celebrate the triumph of God. Like the horn of God that proclaims salvation and victory, we too rejoice to know that God's Kingdom has come and will come again. The Day of Atonement is that day when priests enter the holy of holies to atone for the sins of God's people. One cannot miss the significance of the atonement as each day of that week, we are reminded of the Perfect Atonement: Jesus Christ. The Feast of Booths is that 8-day celebration in autumn after harvest. We are told not to forget the benefits God has bestowed on us. In all of these feasts reminders, we see clearly how Christ completely fulfilled the essence of the feasts. He is the perfect Passover Lamb. He guides us away from sin. He shows us how to give thanks and to celebrate the triumph at the cross. He is the Perfect Sacrifice, the Perfect Example, and the Perfect Victory.
My Thoughts
==============
I appreciate Davis's many reminders about the nature of reading the Bible. Let me highlight three of them. First, I appreciate the reminder about how to handle the Word of God. There are some Christians who tend to be too hasty about reading the Bible. They jump in with a laserlike focus on what and how the text can benefit them. It is like saying to God, "Ok, what can YOU do for me!" attitude. Such a behaviour would lead one to eisegesis (reading our thoughts into the Bible) instead of exegesis (Drawing out the meaning from the Bible). Any Bible Study book will need to provide helpful guides not only for the novice but also the experienced Bible study group member. For the newbie, it is a welcome introduction to the world of Bible studies. For the experienced, it keeps us away from spiritual amnesia.
Second, I like the constant explicit reminders to the Person of Christ. For Jesus Himself has said that He came not to destroy the Law but to fulfill them. In Him, the Law is Perfectly satisfied. Thus, when we study the Old Testament and the feasts, we must remember to always come back to Jesus, who epitomizes the ultimate fulfillment of the purpose of the Law. Some feasts are easier to identify with Christ, like the Passover Lamb and the Day of Atonement.
Third, we are reminded to take what we learn and put them into practice. Davis leaves ample space for us to do just that. We are encouraged to take notes, to write down our thoughts, and to apply what we learn into our own lives. Through the discussion, not only can we expand on the meaning and applications, we can also hold one another accountable.
This short guide through the seven feasts is a creative way to bridge the historical Old Testament feasts with the New Testament focus on Christ. One will learn a lot just by going through the series. Davis did not give us a lot of background with regard to the feasts, but just enough for us to apply gospel eyes to the meaning and significance of the ancient rituals.
Erin Davis is popular speaker, author, and blogger who has authored several books such as Connected, Beyond Bath Time, and books in the My Name is Erin series. She contributes regularly to True Woman blog.
Rating: 4 stars of 5.
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of Moody Publishers and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
October 21, 2021
Excellent study connecting OT feasts to the life of the Christian. Thoughtful, helpful, engaging!
January 10, 2022
While I did enjoy the study, it didn't keep my interest 100% of the time. Honestly, I thought the study would be even more focused on the 7 feasts in the Bible and give more details on them. I was hoping for even more specifics on the actual ins and outs of celebrating these yearly feasts. Still, overall a good Bible study that pointed repeatedly to rhythms and seasons with God.
I bought this, for myself, directly from Moody Publishers.
I bought this, for myself, directly from Moody Publishers.
April 20, 2021
By far one of the best book studies I've done! Erin Davis is very relatable teaches sound doctrine in a way that really helps you learn what you are reading. Most shudder when you hear the word Leviticus but not any more for me! This study connected the 7 Feasts from Leviticus to the New Testament and even to our daily lives. Love Love Loved it!
August 12, 2020
7 Feasts: Finding Christ in the Sacred Celebrations of the Old Testament is the latest Bible study by author Erin Davis. I was really excited when I first learned of 7 Feasts because it doesn't seem that there are too many women's Bible studies that focus on the Old Testament. Although I have read the Bible multiple times and cherish the Old Testament, I do have a hard time remembering the name and purpose of each feast. It was fascinating to go through Erin's study and learn about the institution of each feast and how its observance connected to Christ's first coming.
As I began reading and doing the 7 Feasts study, one aspect of it that really stood out to me is Erin's love for rightly handling God's word and knowing who God is according to it. In the Study Introduction, she wrote, "The purpose of Scripture is . . . to reveal who God is. Though God is certainly mysterious, He has chosen to reveal His character clearly through the pages of His Word . . . If God's Word is a sixty-six piece puzzle, and there are parts of it we avoid, the result will be an incomplete picture of God," (pg.9).
Regarding the feasts she wrote, "The feasts were established as constant object lessons on the character and faithfulness of God. By looking closely at this piece of the puzzle, we gain new glimpses of His character. . . every piece of the puzzle of God's Word matters because all of God's Word shows us who God is. The picture on the box of this puzzle is more beautiful, more hopeful, and more life-changing than we can fully grasp," (pg. 10).
I was really excited when I read the study for Week 1 | Day 1. Erin prefaced the study with a simple explanation of hermeneutics and asserted that, "We can handle God's word 'rightly,'" (pg. 15). Many Bible studies, especially those aimed at women, seem to neglect the foundation of accurate Bible interpretation and I am deeply grateful that Erin saw fit to include it. Within this section on pages 17-20 she listed the Rules of Hermeneutics which are:
1. We let Scripture interpret Scripture.
2. We pay close attention to context.
3. Pause to consider what type of book or passage you're reading.
4. Try to discern the writer's intentions when he wrote the text.
5. Keep it simple . . . When we open God's Word, it is the plain meaning of the text we are seeking to understand.
6. Always take a God-centered approach.
I am excited that all the women who participate in this study will come in contact with these principles and am hopeful that they will grow in their knowledge of who God is as they apply these rules to further studying. One aspect of 7 Feasts that I really appreciate is that Erin directs readers to God as they study. I love the emphasis on looking up Scripture and consistently writing it down as a means of committing it to memory. Although I have read the Bible in its entirety a few times, I was thankful for the way Erin's study helped me make new connections between the Old Testament and the New Testament. I also enjoyed how the study demonstrates application for today that reminds us of the sufficiency of Scripture. On page 278 Erin wrote, "With our eyes fixed on Jesus, we take one uncomfortable step after another as He transforms us into His image. The Bible never calls us to comfortable Christianity, but instead to regular rhythms of sacrifice, surrender, and stretching. Just like the Israelites, I need to be reminded that obeying God will cost me. Why do it? For the same reason the Israelites did when they observed the Feast of Booths. Because He is worthy." I really enjoyed 7 Feasts and look forward to going through it with a group of ladies at some point. I received 7 Feasts compliments of Moody Publishers in exchange for my honest review.
As I began reading and doing the 7 Feasts study, one aspect of it that really stood out to me is Erin's love for rightly handling God's word and knowing who God is according to it. In the Study Introduction, she wrote, "The purpose of Scripture is . . . to reveal who God is. Though God is certainly mysterious, He has chosen to reveal His character clearly through the pages of His Word . . . If God's Word is a sixty-six piece puzzle, and there are parts of it we avoid, the result will be an incomplete picture of God," (pg.9).
Regarding the feasts she wrote, "The feasts were established as constant object lessons on the character and faithfulness of God. By looking closely at this piece of the puzzle, we gain new glimpses of His character. . . every piece of the puzzle of God's Word matters because all of God's Word shows us who God is. The picture on the box of this puzzle is more beautiful, more hopeful, and more life-changing than we can fully grasp," (pg. 10).
I was really excited when I read the study for Week 1 | Day 1. Erin prefaced the study with a simple explanation of hermeneutics and asserted that, "We can handle God's word 'rightly,'" (pg. 15). Many Bible studies, especially those aimed at women, seem to neglect the foundation of accurate Bible interpretation and I am deeply grateful that Erin saw fit to include it. Within this section on pages 17-20 she listed the Rules of Hermeneutics which are:
1. We let Scripture interpret Scripture.
2. We pay close attention to context.
3. Pause to consider what type of book or passage you're reading.
4. Try to discern the writer's intentions when he wrote the text.
5. Keep it simple . . . When we open God's Word, it is the plain meaning of the text we are seeking to understand.
6. Always take a God-centered approach.
I am excited that all the women who participate in this study will come in contact with these principles and am hopeful that they will grow in their knowledge of who God is as they apply these rules to further studying. One aspect of 7 Feasts that I really appreciate is that Erin directs readers to God as they study. I love the emphasis on looking up Scripture and consistently writing it down as a means of committing it to memory. Although I have read the Bible in its entirety a few times, I was thankful for the way Erin's study helped me make new connections between the Old Testament and the New Testament. I also enjoyed how the study demonstrates application for today that reminds us of the sufficiency of Scripture. On page 278 Erin wrote, "With our eyes fixed on Jesus, we take one uncomfortable step after another as He transforms us into His image. The Bible never calls us to comfortable Christianity, but instead to regular rhythms of sacrifice, surrender, and stretching. Just like the Israelites, I need to be reminded that obeying God will cost me. Why do it? For the same reason the Israelites did when they observed the Feast of Booths. Because He is worthy." I really enjoyed 7 Feasts and look forward to going through it with a group of ladies at some point. I received 7 Feasts compliments of Moody Publishers in exchange for my honest review.
July 21, 2020
Better understand the cultural significance and how these seemingly obscure Old Testament feasts relate to the rest of the Bible in this 8-week study!
I was intrigued when I learned about this new Bible study focused on The Seven Feasts of Israel.
While I had a general familiarity with what they were each about and have friends and family who have shared details about their own celebrations of these occasions, I kind of always figured they didn't really apply to anyone who wasn't still connected with Jewish faith and culture.
Whenever I've read through that portion of Leviticus 23 that focuses on these feasts, I just kind of figured they were in there so we could understand things from more of an historical perspective and relate better to our Jewish brethren.
Author Erin Davis, however, proposes that they are so much more.
She asserts that when you have completed this study, you will better understand that every part of God's Word matters deeply because all of it shows who God is.
Therefore, not only will this journey be an interesting exploration of a much-overlooked section of the Bible, but it will provide new glimpses of God's character -- and as Christians, don't we all want to know Jesus better?
Shouldn't the greatest quest of our lives be to love Him more and more?
I am just setting out along this book's path toward a deeper understanding of God myself and so don't have a ton of insight as to what Erin Davis divulges in the pages, however, in glancing through the book and reading through the introduction, I can already tell a few things:
1) She writes in an easy, relatable style that gives me hope that this study of a dry topic will be more fun than I'd expect.
2) She has made this a truly interactive workbook, full of not only the expected "lesson blurbs" and reflection questions, but plenty of "research-style" promptings as well, which will force me to do much of the work of learning myself, rather than sitting back passively and having it spoon-fed right into my mouth.
That second one is a bit intimidating, because my lazy-self doesn't always feel like doing more work, but I also know deep down inside that this means I will come away from the study having truly digested and internalized my findings.
I received a free copy of this product in exchange for writing a review. All opinions are my own.
I was intrigued when I learned about this new Bible study focused on The Seven Feasts of Israel.
While I had a general familiarity with what they were each about and have friends and family who have shared details about their own celebrations of these occasions, I kind of always figured they didn't really apply to anyone who wasn't still connected with Jewish faith and culture.
Whenever I've read through that portion of Leviticus 23 that focuses on these feasts, I just kind of figured they were in there so we could understand things from more of an historical perspective and relate better to our Jewish brethren.
Author Erin Davis, however, proposes that they are so much more.
She asserts that when you have completed this study, you will better understand that every part of God's Word matters deeply because all of it shows who God is.
Therefore, not only will this journey be an interesting exploration of a much-overlooked section of the Bible, but it will provide new glimpses of God's character -- and as Christians, don't we all want to know Jesus better?
Shouldn't the greatest quest of our lives be to love Him more and more?
I am just setting out along this book's path toward a deeper understanding of God myself and so don't have a ton of insight as to what Erin Davis divulges in the pages, however, in glancing through the book and reading through the introduction, I can already tell a few things:
1) She writes in an easy, relatable style that gives me hope that this study of a dry topic will be more fun than I'd expect.
2) She has made this a truly interactive workbook, full of not only the expected "lesson blurbs" and reflection questions, but plenty of "research-style" promptings as well, which will force me to do much of the work of learning myself, rather than sitting back passively and having it spoon-fed right into my mouth.
That second one is a bit intimidating, because my lazy-self doesn't always feel like doing more work, but I also know deep down inside that this means I will come away from the study having truly digested and internalized my findings.
I received a free copy of this product in exchange for writing a review. All opinions are my own.
August 14, 2020
As someone who loves studying the Old Testament, I was very excited about this study. It focuses on the 7 feasts and the book of Leviticus. It has been a wonderful study and there's so much to say about it.
First of all, I love how the author takes us slowly through thie study and Scripture so we get all the nuances and the understanding of everything we are reading. I love studies that don't rush me through everything with the idea of saying I finished a study. I want to know everything about what I'm reading and studying so that I can truly understand and apply it to my life.
The 7 feasts that Erin teaches about are:
Passover: Reminds us of our deliverance from death.
Feast of Unleavened Bread: Reminds us that we still face the dangerous and permeating death of sin.
Feast of First fruits: Celebrates that God gives us His very best: Himself. In return, as an act of worship, we give Him our very best.
Feast of Weeks: Reminds us that God never wastes the wait.
Feast of Trumpets: Jesus will fulfill the Feast of Trumpets with His triumphant return.
Day of Atonement: This day showcase’s God’s elaborate grace.
Feast of Booths: Shines the spotlight on God and reminds His children of His character.
Each of these feasts gives us a better understanding of God and Jesus. There is so much important information and Erin helps us to digest each section slowly by asking us to write out certain Scriptures (which always helps me), and answering vital questions about what we've learned. She doesn't leave us wondering but explains everything beautifully and in ways that are very understandable.
I absolutely love this study and I think you will, too. It's such a great study that will open your eyes to the 7 feasts, the Old Testament and Jesus. It's in-depth and totally Biblical, which is so important. I highly recommend this study an give it 5 stars.
*This Bible study was provided to me by Side Door Communications and Moody Publishers. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book.
First of all, I love how the author takes us slowly through thie study and Scripture so we get all the nuances and the understanding of everything we are reading. I love studies that don't rush me through everything with the idea of saying I finished a study. I want to know everything about what I'm reading and studying so that I can truly understand and apply it to my life.
The 7 feasts that Erin teaches about are:
Passover: Reminds us of our deliverance from death.
Feast of Unleavened Bread: Reminds us that we still face the dangerous and permeating death of sin.
Feast of First fruits: Celebrates that God gives us His very best: Himself. In return, as an act of worship, we give Him our very best.
Feast of Weeks: Reminds us that God never wastes the wait.
Feast of Trumpets: Jesus will fulfill the Feast of Trumpets with His triumphant return.
Day of Atonement: This day showcase’s God’s elaborate grace.
Feast of Booths: Shines the spotlight on God and reminds His children of His character.
Each of these feasts gives us a better understanding of God and Jesus. There is so much important information and Erin helps us to digest each section slowly by asking us to write out certain Scriptures (which always helps me), and answering vital questions about what we've learned. She doesn't leave us wondering but explains everything beautifully and in ways that are very understandable.
I absolutely love this study and I think you will, too. It's such a great study that will open your eyes to the 7 feasts, the Old Testament and Jesus. It's in-depth and totally Biblical, which is so important. I highly recommend this study an give it 5 stars.
*This Bible study was provided to me by Side Door Communications and Moody Publishers. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book.
August 23, 2020
I received a copy of this book from Moody Publishers in exchange for an honest review.
7 Feasts is an eight week study of the 7 Feast days presented in the Old Testament. Each week was split into five days of work, and it took me around 15-30 minutes to complete each day. It was a pretty significant time commitment, but I learned a lot and thought it was well worth the time.
First of all, this was definitely a study to have your Bible out and ready to flip to many different passages. Most verses are not written out in the book, so you will need to look them up yourself. Erin Hunter uses the ESV, but there were only a handful of times where the exact wording of the ESV was needed to make sense.
I think this study would be great for tactile learners. It requires you to find and write out all of the answers. And I loved the use of charts and graphics to organize information. Overall, it really makes you feel like you are putting all the pieces together and discovering everything as you work.
I loved the topic of this study. Too many Christians are under-educated about God’s feasts days because they feel like they are “Old Testament things” that are not relevant to our lives anymore. But that’s not true! The feasts provide such a beautiful picture of Jesus and remind us of God’s character. Even though I have read about the feasts in the Old Testament, I only had a basic understanding of the feast days. I gained so much knowledge through this study, and as a tactile learner, the format of writing all my answers down and filling in charts, etc, really helped my memory.
7 Feasts is an eight week study of the 7 Feast days presented in the Old Testament. Each week was split into five days of work, and it took me around 15-30 minutes to complete each day. It was a pretty significant time commitment, but I learned a lot and thought it was well worth the time.
First of all, this was definitely a study to have your Bible out and ready to flip to many different passages. Most verses are not written out in the book, so you will need to look them up yourself. Erin Hunter uses the ESV, but there were only a handful of times where the exact wording of the ESV was needed to make sense.
I think this study would be great for tactile learners. It requires you to find and write out all of the answers. And I loved the use of charts and graphics to organize information. Overall, it really makes you feel like you are putting all the pieces together and discovering everything as you work.
I loved the topic of this study. Too many Christians are under-educated about God’s feasts days because they feel like they are “Old Testament things” that are not relevant to our lives anymore. But that’s not true! The feasts provide such a beautiful picture of Jesus and remind us of God’s character. Even though I have read about the feasts in the Old Testament, I only had a basic understanding of the feast days. I gained so much knowledge through this study, and as a tactile learner, the format of writing all my answers down and filling in charts, etc, really helped my memory.
May 8, 2020
"7 Feasts" is an eight-week Bible study. Each week had an introduction, then five days of study on one of the feasts, and a final section that asked three questions about what we learned. After a week introducing the study and how we're going to use Scripture to interpret Scripture, each week focused on one of the feasts: The Passover, The Feast of Unleavened Bread, The Feast of Firstfruits, The Feast of Weeks, The Feast of Trumpets, The Day of Atonement, The Feast of Booths. The author had you read the regulations for each feast as recorded in Leviticus and then brought out related verses (mostly from the New Testament) that help the reader better understand the feast and how Jesus fulfilled the intent of feast. For example, the New Testament talks about leavened bread as an analogy for sin in our lives, so that was the focus for that week. Since I've studied the feasts before, this information was not new for me. However, I would recommend this study for personal or group study if you've never studied this information before.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
July 16, 2020
I love spending time in the Old Testament. It is where I learn about the history and culture behind the stories and events in the New Testament. Erin Davis' new Bible study, "7 Feasts", focuses on the seven feasts of the Old Testament that are shadows of events in the New Testament.
Davis does an excellent job guiding and explaining the 23rd chapter of Leviticus as it reveals Jesus. This 8-week study will help you see the gospel in each feast. As you walk through the Scripture readings, interactive questions and journaling, you will be enlightened and your faith will be enriched.
Davis also does a great job with a difficult subject making her readers yearn for more of Jesus, of knowledge and of intimacy with Him.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Side Door Communications, as part of Moody Publishers Book Review Program. I was not required to write a review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Davis does an excellent job guiding and explaining the 23rd chapter of Leviticus as it reveals Jesus. This 8-week study will help you see the gospel in each feast. As you walk through the Scripture readings, interactive questions and journaling, you will be enlightened and your faith will be enriched.
Davis also does a great job with a difficult subject making her readers yearn for more of Jesus, of knowledge and of intimacy with Him.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Side Door Communications, as part of Moody Publishers Book Review Program. I was not required to write a review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
May 3, 2020
7 Feasts is an 8 week Bible study with a focus of finding Jesus in the 7 feasts/sacred celebrations in the Old Testament. These feasts include Passover, Feast of the Unleavened Bread, Feast of First-Fruits, Feast of Weeks, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, and the Feast of Booths. I had heard of all of these feasts before, but the only one I was really familiar with was Passover. So, I appreciated gaining more insight about each of these feasts, and connecting them to Jesus. There was one week of study dedicated to each feast, and the weekly material was broken into 5 daily sessions. Each day had a big idea and a scripture to look up. There are also questions throughout the study. An example of something that was meaningful to me in this study was thinking about the Feast of First-Fruits. This feast serves as a reminder that we need to give our best to God. God gave us His best with Jesus, so we need to give it all to Him.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, through Net Galley. All opinions are my own.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, through Net Galley. All opinions are my own.
December 3, 2020
I worked through this book very quickly to see if it would be a good option to teach for a Ladies Bible study. It is a good study; however, some of the assignments for a singular day are extremely long and cumbersome while not holding a lot of depth. There is a large amount of copy work and review so some of it felt like busy work. I was really looking for more depth and while there was some depth, I wish there would have been more. I may use some of it in an adapted format but I’m not sure if I will teach through it with my ladies or not. It was very interesting and exciting to see connections between the Old Testament feasts and the New Testament truths which is why I would give it 4 stars.
May 26, 2020
2 stars
7 Feasts
by Erin Davis
The whole premise of this book is so good and I was very excited to read it. However, Davis did not deliver at all. For example, I very much disagree with the author's take on generational sin. It makes me wonder if the rest of her theology is suspect too.
There is minimal good information in this book but the farther I read, the more suspect the author's theology gets. I am rather disappointed as this had the potential to be a very powerful learning tool.
I, unfortunately, cannot recommend this book at all.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. The views given are my own.
7 Feasts
by Erin Davis
The whole premise of this book is so good and I was very excited to read it. However, Davis did not deliver at all. For example, I very much disagree with the author's take on generational sin. It makes me wonder if the rest of her theology is suspect too.
There is minimal good information in this book but the farther I read, the more suspect the author's theology gets. I am rather disappointed as this had the potential to be a very powerful learning tool.
I, unfortunately, cannot recommend this book at all.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. The views given are my own.
October 12, 2024
This was not a great choice. The study is disjointed. Lots of hopping around and using verses out of context.
Lots of busy work > “Draw a picture of what this represents.”
Seemingly disconnected scripture references with no explanation.
Lots of busy work > “Draw a picture of what this represents.”
Seemingly disconnected scripture references with no explanation.
August 14, 2023
This is a great study for an overview of seeing Jesus in the Feasts. I think I was hoping for more in depth insight into each feast.
January 11, 2021
At first glance, the topic of Leviticus 23 may seem like an unlikely choice for the newest addition to the Moody Bible Studies for Women series... but Erin Davis brings this often-overlooked chapter to vibrant life by teaching us to dive in and uncover rich truths that reveal the beauty of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, in Old Testament writings. “7 Feasts: Finding Christ in the Sacred Celebrations of the Old Testament - An 8-Week Bible Study” is one of the most interesting and eye-opening studies I have had the pleasure of completing, for so many reasons.
I highly recommend “7 Feasts” to anyone who desires to make new discoveries and connect the traditions of the Old Testament to the Gospel and the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament. Each of the daily lessons in this book are written in a warm, friendly, often humorous tone that I adored. In addition to cross-reference questions and answers, a generous number of diagrams, charts, and writing assignments make this study very interactive and fun. I really looked forward to my time of study each day - I learned so much, and had a great time doing it.
Although I’m sad that I’m finished “7 Feasts” now, I am looking forward to using my newfound study skills to unravel the truths of other chapters and books in the Old Testament. And it’s all thanks to an amazing author who allowed God to use her, and teach through her! I wish I knew Erin personally, as this special lady would be a wonderful friend and mentor. . . but then, I suppose by reading her words in this book she has become just that, for me and all who read her work.
I received this book courtesy of Moody Publishers in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I highly recommend “7 Feasts” to anyone who desires to make new discoveries and connect the traditions of the Old Testament to the Gospel and the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament. Each of the daily lessons in this book are written in a warm, friendly, often humorous tone that I adored. In addition to cross-reference questions and answers, a generous number of diagrams, charts, and writing assignments make this study very interactive and fun. I really looked forward to my time of study each day - I learned so much, and had a great time doing it.
Although I’m sad that I’m finished “7 Feasts” now, I am looking forward to using my newfound study skills to unravel the truths of other chapters and books in the Old Testament. And it’s all thanks to an amazing author who allowed God to use her, and teach through her! I wish I knew Erin personally, as this special lady would be a wonderful friend and mentor. . . but then, I suppose by reading her words in this book she has become just that, for me and all who read her work.
I received this book courtesy of Moody Publishers in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 15, 2020
“7 Feasts” by Erin Davis is a 8 week Bible study which focuses on creating a link from the feasts of the Old Testament, through the Gospel, to the reader’s life today. Leviticus 23 is the starting point but this is not a book centered on the history and traditions of the feasts but rather how they foreshadow Jesus’ arrival and His life on earth and then what they teach the reader.
Each week Erin shares a big idea related to one feast creating context for the week ahead. Each day she unpacks pieces of the big idea giving the reader plenty of Biblical exploration tasks and reflection questions. I took it day by day and found myself eager to dig in each day! It surprised me to see beautiful connections in the Old Testament to Jesus and excited me to know I could live out the lessons the next day.
This is one not to be rushed if you are going to get the most out of it. It is one to park in, ponder over and enjoy! There are large Biblical constructs like sacrifice to digest and simple practices like Sabbath rest to work into your day. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey, I feel more connected to God and grateful for my fresh understanding of the feasts. It is a five out of five on the enJOYment scale and highly recommended.
Each week Erin shares a big idea related to one feast creating context for the week ahead. Each day she unpacks pieces of the big idea giving the reader plenty of Biblical exploration tasks and reflection questions. I took it day by day and found myself eager to dig in each day! It surprised me to see beautiful connections in the Old Testament to Jesus and excited me to know I could live out the lessons the next day.
This is one not to be rushed if you are going to get the most out of it. It is one to park in, ponder over and enjoy! There are large Biblical constructs like sacrifice to digest and simple practices like Sabbath rest to work into your day. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey, I feel more connected to God and grateful for my fresh understanding of the feasts. It is a five out of five on the enJOYment scale and highly recommended.
April 17, 2022
This study was wonderful! If you have (or are asking God for) a love of His Word, this study is for you. It begins and ends with chapters encouraging you to love and continue to desire to dig into the Bible.
Viewing the Feasts in Leviticus through the lens of the Gospel (as well as the current and future ages) is AMAZING.
Each day’s time commitment is robust in this study, but well worth it. (I spent about 30 min/day.). It is very helpful to use a Bible app on phone or tablet (I used Blue Letter Bible App) as there is a lot of hopping back and forth as you dig into the Word. I also watched her videos for each week’s session on YouTube. Videos are repetitive of book at times, but good as I really wanted to savor this study.
God’s timing is perfect, as I completed my last day of this study on Passover/Good Friday. I am taking away renewed awe of God’s sovereignty and a plan to implement rhythms of remembrance in my own life. Thankful!
Viewing the Feasts in Leviticus through the lens of the Gospel (as well as the current and future ages) is AMAZING.
Each day’s time commitment is robust in this study, but well worth it. (I spent about 30 min/day.). It is very helpful to use a Bible app on phone or tablet (I used Blue Letter Bible App) as there is a lot of hopping back and forth as you dig into the Word. I also watched her videos for each week’s session on YouTube. Videos are repetitive of book at times, but good as I really wanted to savor this study.
God’s timing is perfect, as I completed my last day of this study on Passover/Good Friday. I am taking away renewed awe of God’s sovereignty and a plan to implement rhythms of remembrance in my own life. Thankful!
January 17, 2023
I really enjoyed this Bible study. It helps me see how the Old Testament festivals (currently practiced by Jews) were fulfilled by Christ in the New Testament.
Over all, I liked the book and the setup of the weeks. However, I felt like the last week of the study was less a focus on the Feast of Booths and more a review of the previous 6 feasts and a look at Psalm 119. I would have preferred the more in-depth study on the Feast of Booths like there was for the previously discussed feasts, and an additional week for the review of the feasts.
Feasts:
Passover
Unleavened Bread
Firstfruits (Christian Easter)
Weeks (Christian Pentecost, Jewish Shauvot)
Trumpets (Jewish Rosh Hashana)
Atonement (Jewish Yom Kippur)
Booths (aka Tabernacles; Jewish Sukkot)
Over all, I liked the book and the setup of the weeks. However, I felt like the last week of the study was less a focus on the Feast of Booths and more a review of the previous 6 feasts and a look at Psalm 119. I would have preferred the more in-depth study on the Feast of Booths like there was for the previously discussed feasts, and an additional week for the review of the feasts.
Feasts:
Passover
Unleavened Bread
Firstfruits (Christian Easter)
Weeks (Christian Pentecost, Jewish Shauvot)
Trumpets (Jewish Rosh Hashana)
Atonement (Jewish Yom Kippur)
Booths (aka Tabernacles; Jewish Sukkot)
March 29, 2024
I loved this study; it did its job making me understand the 7 feasts of Leviticus and how they point to Jesus. I did this study on my own and I didn’t feel I missed out on not having a group to discuss with. Some studies are clearly meant to be done with a group, this one is easy to do alone.
I found week 8 to have a pretty heavy workload so I split it up into extra days, but I loved it-even if it kicked my butt at times.
I found this study to inform and challenge the reader to make changes to live more fully for Christ.
I would recommend this to established Christians looking to grow; new believers could still do this, I just think it may be a bit heavy and hard without an established foundation first.
I found week 8 to have a pretty heavy workload so I split it up into extra days, but I loved it-even if it kicked my butt at times.
I found this study to inform and challenge the reader to make changes to live more fully for Christ.
I would recommend this to established Christians looking to grow; new believers could still do this, I just think it may be a bit heavy and hard without an established foundation first.
September 6, 2022
This was a fantastic study…especially considering it was all about Leviticus 23! 😂 This study bounced is back and forth between Leviticus 23 (where the 7 feasts are introduced) and the New Testament to help us understand how each feast points forward to the coming Messiah, and to see how Jesus Christ fulfilled the purpose of each feast. I’ve been a Christian for 30+ years, grew up in church, went to Bible college, and have been a more serious student of the Bible for 8 years and this content was almost mind-bending for me! I have never spent so much quality time seeing Christ in the Old Testament. It was made even better by studying it with a group of wonderful ladies!
October 14, 2020
This Bible study is exciting and moving, even for a seasoned Christian as myself. I get so blessed connecting the traditions set forth by God in the Old Testament to the Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Like the A-Team said at the end of each episode, “I love it when a plan comes together!”
August 13, 2021
An awesome study to review and learn about the Celebrations of the Old Testament and how we can observe them today. I learned a lot in this 8 week study. I plan to go back through it because I am sure I missed a lot of it.
April 17, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this Bible study! The connections between the feasts of old and our new covenant with Jesus after the cross were amazing to discover. So many wonderful nuggets in each week’s lesson on God’s faithfulness and His perfect plan laid out from the very beginning!
February 5, 2025
This book made me long for the Old Testament. I would dream about it, wake up excited to read the Bible and go to sleep wishing I had more time to read Gods word. It was a game changer and I highly recommend seeing how the feasts still can tie into our walk today.
May 27, 2025
An excellent study by Erin Davis which helps Christians understand the Feast Day celebrations ordained in the Old Testament which all point to and are (will be) fulfilled in Christ Jesus. Meaningful and encouraging.
July 29, 2021
Really enjoyed this study and the corresponding podcast episodes!
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