Rediscovering the Feast of Tabernacles

Practical Steps and Common Objections Answered

WHEN Christians hear about the Feast of Tabernacles, many instinctively respond, “But that was for the Jews!” or, “Didn’t Paul say we’re not under the Law?” Yet when we look more closely at Scripture, both the Old and New Testaments present these feasts not as obsolete rituals, but as enduring appointments with God—rich in meaning for all His people.

The question is not whether the Feast of Tabernacles ('Sukkot') points to Christ (it clearly does), but whether followers of Christ should continue to observe it. Let’s address some common objections and explore practical, joyful ways to celebrate it today.

1. “Aren’t We Free from the Law?”

Paul’s writings are often misunderstood to mean that Christians are free from the Law. Yet Paul himself clarifies that believers are “not without law toward God, but under the law of Christ” (1 Corinthians 9:21). He teaches that “the Law is holy, and the commandment holy and just and good” (Romans 7:12). Freedom in Christ means release from sin’s penalty—not license to ignore God’s instructions.

In fact, Paul kept observing God’s festivals (Acts 18:21; 20:16; 27:9), the Sabbaths (Acts 13:42–44; 17:2), and even the Passover symbolism (1 Corinthians 5:7-8). These observances were not “Jewish legalism” but opportunities to worship God in spirit and truth.

When Paul wrote that we are justified “apart from the works of the law” (Romans 3:28), he was rejecting the idea that rituals save us—not denying their spiritual value. The Feasts remind us that salvation is by grace, yet obedience expresses gratitude for that grace.

2. “Aren’t the Feasts Just Typology Fulfilled in Christ?”

Yes, the Feasts are typological—but fulfilled typology deepens meaning, not abolishes it. Christ fulfilled Passover by becoming our Lamb, yet Paul still says, “Let us keep the feast” (1 Corinthians 5:8). The Holy Spirit fulfilled Pentecost, yet Christians continued to assemble on that day (Acts 2:1).

Likewise, the Feast of Tabernacles points forward to Christ’s millennial reign and to the ultimate “tabernacling” of God with humanity (Revelation 21:3). Even in the prophetic future, “all nations… shall go up from year to year to worship the King, the Lord of hosts, and to keep the Feast of Tabernacles” (Zechariah 14:16). If it will be celebrated in the Kingdom, why neglect it now? Observing it today is a rehearsal—a joyful preview of God’s coming Kingdom.

3. “Isn’t That a Jewish Tradition?”

God’s feasts are not “Jewish holidays” but the "LORD’s feasts" (Leviticus 23:2). They belong to Him. Gentile believers were grafted into Israel’s covenant promises (Romans 11:17-24), meaning we share in the same spiritual heritage. Early Christian writings show that believers continued to celebrate these seasons long after Christ’s ascension—though with Christ-centered understanding rather than temple sacrifices.

Modern scholarship supports this continuity. The New Bible Dictionary (IVP) notes that “the early Jewish-Christian communities continued to observe the traditional festivals, interpreting them in light of the events of Christ’s life.”

Historian Samuele Bacchiocchi adds in 'God’s Festivals in Scripture and History' that these festivals served as “annual memorials of redemption and prophecy of the world to come.”

Practical Ways to Observe the Feast of Tabernacles--

The Feast of Tabernacles lasts seven days, followed by an eighth-day assembly (Leviticus 23:33–36). Here are simple, faith-building ways to celebrate it today:

▪️Set Aside Time to Dwell with God.

The essence of “tabernacling” is to dwell in "booth"--as a temporary dwelling. Plan a week of spiritual retreat—whether camping, staying in simple lodging, or gathering daily with brethren. Disconnect from the world’s rush and focus on fellowship, worship, and thanksgiving for God’s provision.

▪️Rejoice Before the Lord.

This is one of the few feasts specifically commanded to be joyful (Deuteronomy 16:14-15). Sing, dance, share meals, and celebrate God’s goodness. Invite friends and family to experience the joy of living faith.

▪️Study the Meaning of the Feast.

Read John 7–8, where Jesus teaches during the Feast, declaring Himself the source of living water and the light of the world. Connect those teachings to Revelation 21:3-6, where God finally dwells with humanity.

▪️Share Generously.

The Feast reminds us that God’s blessings are to be shared (Deuteronomy 16:14). Bring gifts for others, help the poor, or support your congregation’s celebration fund. Generosity embodies the Kingdom spirit.

▪️Reflect Daily on God’s Faithfulness.

Israel lived in temporary booths to remember their wilderness journey. Build or decorate a simple shelter, tent, or even a symbolic “booth” at home. Use it as a place for prayer, family devotion, or gratitude journaling.

▪️Rely on God's provisions (Everything is Temporary).

Just as the children of Israel relied on God for their provision during their wanderings in the Wilderness (Exo. 13:18-22, Deut. 8:2-3), so too as God's people we are taught to rely on Him in faith as sojourners and pilgrims on the earth (Heb. 11, 1 Pet. 2:11). Moreover, we are also reminded of the impermanence of everything (Eccl. 3, Jms 4:14, 2 Cor. 4:18).

▪️Look Forward to Christ’s Reign.

Teach your children that one day, “the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the Lord” (Isaiah 11:9). The Feast points to that coming reality—when peace, justice, and joy will overflow like living waters from Jerusalem.

Why This Matters Today

In a world fractured by greed, anxiety, and distraction, the Feast of Tabernacles re-centers us on God’s Kingdom values: joy, community, humility, and hope. It reminds us that this world is temporary—our true home is with God.

Observing the Feast does not earn salvation; it enriches discipleship. It’s not bondage to law, but freedom to live by God’s rhythm. As Jesus Himself declared on the last great day (7th day) of the Feast:

“If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink.” (John 7:37)

When believers step into the rhythm of God’s appointed times, they find not law-keeping drudgery, but living water for the soul.

In Christ, the Feasts come alive.

They are not relics of the past, but rehearsals for the future — a time when God’s people will dwell together in peace under the tabernacle of His Kingdom.

So as the Feast of Tabernacles falls on its season, why not accept Christ’s invitation to “come and drink”? You may discover joy, fellowship, and prophetic meaning you never knew you were missing!