Figuring out the timing of the Biblical holy days is perhaps
the single-most controversial issue amongst annual Sabbatarians. The fruit of this controversy
is that a movement which we pray will become strengthened and unified is instead becoming fragmented.
People have tended to become dug-in regarding the dating they believe to be correct.
Then they choose not to associate any more with those who do not share their Sabbath dating views.
Ultimately, we see the hand of the enemy of souls in this work of fragmenting the feast-keepers. Believers
become isolated or confused.
One of the most critical reasons YHWH blessed us with the Biblical holy days
was for the "assembling" of the brethren. This is why we are called into holy "convocations" in Leviticus 23
on these sacred times. YHWH knew that His people needed these assembly times. By coming
together, we not only walk in obedience to the Father's Word, we also gain strength in the messages, prayers
and association with the brethren.
As we near the end of time, this precious "assembling" of the believers will grow
even more critical in keeping the body of Christ strong. In Hebrews 10:24-25 we are warned against becoming
fragmented and no longer meeting together. "And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to
good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting
one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching."
We, at Lighted Way Ministries, believe that this assembling is so vital to Spiritual Israel
that we are addressing this issue in two ways:
- We support our dear annual-Sabbatarian brethren whether or not their calculation of dates coincides
with our own. To demonstrate this support, we often work to attend the retreats of others (which are not meeting
at the times we believe in). In addition, we continue to pray for and respect each person who loves the Father and
the Sabbath enough to keep these special days.
- We prayerfully present the Bible studies about how we arrived at the dating beliefs we hold. Perhaps,
our taking the time to deal with this hot potato issue will help another be stronger, and will bring healing
in the deepening fissure among annual Sabbatarians.
These Biblical "dating" studies are presented here for this purpose. May you be blessed,
as we pray to be, with ever increasing heavenly light. Please note: we are all growing, studying and learning
more in the Word. As a result, we merely share these studies to show what we've found at this time. We continue
to make adjustments as they are shown to be needed in the Word of YHWH.
Studies on Calculating the Biblical Holy Days:
Calculating the Weekly Sabbath: Lunar or Saturday
Calculating the Beginning of the Biblical Year
When are Passover and Unleavened Bread?
When are Firstfruits and Pentecost?