Biblical Festivals Overview: Trumpets, Atonement, Shelters
What is the ‘Day of Trumpets’? In Hebrew it’s Yom Teruah or Rosh Hashanah. The trumpet blast (blowing of the shofar) has called Israel to solemn assembly, repentance and worship for thousands of years. The New Testament connects the sounding of trumpets to the return of Jesus, leading up to the day of judgement. The 10 days between Trumpets and the Day of Atonement have become known as ‘Days of Awe’ – days for focused reflection and for realigning our lives with God’s Word, in preparation for the end of the age: “that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return” (Phil 1:10). Each year, New Life Church sets aside time for praying and fasting together in sacred assembly during this God-appointed season. During these days we have a prayer focus on the Jewish people, praying that they will return to the Lord and come into relationship with their Messiah Jesus.
Leviticus 23:23-25
1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11
Revelation 19:5-8
What is the ‘Day of Atonement’? Yom Kippur (the Hebrew name) is a day for fasting and repentance. Historically, the people of Israel would gather to seek national atonement on this day. The ultimate sacrifice for atonement has been made for all people through the death of Jesus Christ, but the Scriptures point us to a future day of judgement for Israel and all the nations.
Revelation 20:11-15
Hebrews 10
What is the Festival of Shelters? Shelters comes from the Hebrew word sukkot. Sukkot are temporary shelters that were to be erected for 7 days to remind Israel of her wilderness wanderings en-route to the Promised Land. The Festival of Shelters connects us to our story as pilgrims who are looking forward to the return of Jesus and the ultimate shelter: the dwelling of God with people (Rev 21). At New Life we also celebrate the first coming of Jesus in this season, as the historical evidence hints that this may have been the time of Jesus’ birth.
Leviticus 23:33-43
John 1:1-18
2 Corinthians 4:7-5:10
Revelation 19-22
