The Sabbath: A Day of Rest and Worship
Imagine walking through a bustling city on a Sunday morning when someone flags you down from the stoop of their brownstone. They ask for your help with changing a lightbulb, explaining that as a Jewish person, they cannot work on the Sabbath. This scenario may seem unusual, but it highlights the common misconceptions many Christians have about the Sabbath.
What is the Sabbath?
The Sabbath is a weekly day set apart by God for humans to rest from their labors and activities, devoting themselves to worship and fellowship with others. The Hebrew word “sabbath” means “rest,” and it is a day of holy resting and spiritual refreshment in God.
Established at Creation
God established the Sabbath at creation, resting on the seventh day after completing his works. He blessed and made this day holy, setting it apart for people to worship him. In the life of Israel, the Sabbath took on added meaning, commemorating God’s mighty work in redeeming his people from slavery in Egypt.
Is the Sabbath Relevant to Christians?
Some may argue that the Sabbath is only relevant to Israel, not the Church. However, Jesus taught about the Sabbath, correcting misunderstandings and clarifying its true meaning. He did not abolish the Sabbath but reaffirmed its importance. The New Testament affirms the Sabbath as a standing commandment for all people.
A Day of Worship and Fellowship
The Sabbath is a day for public worship and Christian fellowship. When we gather with God’s people, we are preparing to meet with God and receive blessings from him. It is a powerful counternarrative to the world’s narratives, reminding us of first things – creation, redemption, and consummation.
Observing the Sabbath
To observe the Sabbath, we must be prepared to set down certain things that God would have us set down. We should refrain from work and other activities that fill up Monday through Saturday. However, Jesus recognizes that there are certain kinds of work that are unavoidable on Sunday.
A Testimony to Our Lord
Observing the Sabbath is a powerful testimony to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. In a world where people are often mastered by their calendars, Christians declare that Jesus Christ is Lord over their calendars. We gladly obey Christ, knowing that every command of his is easy and light.
A Declaration of the Gospel
Observing the Sabbath is a profound declaration of the gospel – its truth, importance, and claim on our hearts and lives. We are saying that God, our Maker and Redeemer, is altogether worthy of our worship, devotion, and praise.
So, what are you doing next Sunday? Will you observe the Sabbath, setting apart the day for worship, fellowship, and rest?
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