The Origin and Purpose of the Sabbath
Introduction
The Sabbath, an important religious observance observed in various faiths around the world, holds significant importance in Christianity. This page will explore the origins of the Sabbath, its divine purpose, and its connection to the everlasting covenant. Additionally, it will address the sin associated with disregarding the Sabbath, the appropriate activities on the Sabbath day, and the question of whether Jesus Christ and the Apostle Paul observed the Sabbath. The page will conclude by analyzing the Sabbath’s relation to the cross and its observance in the future new heavens and new earth.
Origin of the Sabbath Day
The Sabbath originates in Genesis 2:1-3, where God rested on the seventh day after creating the universe. The account of creation in Genesis gives us a glimpse into the divine plan and the significance of the Sabbath as a day of rest and worship. According to Exodus 31:12-17, the Israelite’s were instructed to observe the Sabbath as a holy day and rest from regular work. This command reaffirmed the divine purpose behind the Sabbath, which is to honor God’s creative work and acknowledge His authority over our lives.
Connection to the Everlasting Covenant
The Sabbath is also connected to the everlasting covenant mentioned in Deuteronomy 4:13 and Exodus 20:8-11. The Sabbath day serves as a reminder of God’s covenant relationship with His people, promising blessings and protection for those who would obey His commands. It is a sign of the covenant relationship between God and humanity, signifying His faithfulness and commitment to His chosen people.
Sin of Disregarding the Sabbath
The Bible makes it abundantly clear that disregarding the Sabbath is considered a sin. In I John 3:4, it states that sin is the violation of the law. The spirit and essence of the law, as well as the Gospel, teach us that we must love God by obeying His commandments. Disobedience, whether it is a direct violation of God’s commands or our duty towards our neighbors, is contrary to love, and therefore sin is transgression of the law. James 2:10-11 also emphasizes the importance of consistently upholding all of God’s laws, even if not all are violated. Therefore, failing to observe the Sabbath is disregarding God’s commands and a violation of the sacredness of this holy day.
Activities on the Sabbath
According to Lev. 23:3 and Isaiah 56:1-7, the Sabbath day is a day of rest from work and other mundane tasks. It is a day to focus on worship, prayer, and spending time with family. Isaiah 58:13-14 emphasizes the importance of using time for acts of kindness and service to others. The Sabbath is not a day for idleness but a time to seek God’s presence and engage in activities that bring joy and fulfillment.
Observance of the Sabbath by Jesus Christ and the Apostle Paul
Both Jesus Christ and the Apostle Paul observed the Sabbath day as part of their faith. Luke 4:16 and Mark 1:21 record Jesus’ activities on the Sabbath, which included teaching and healing in the synagogue. In Acts 17:1-2, Paul engaged in discussion about the Sabbath with a group of Jews and Gentiles in Athens. And Acts 18:1-4 indicates that Paul regularly attended the synagogue and observed the Sabbath while preaching and spreading the gospel in Corinth.
The Sabbath and the Cross
The Sabbath is often the subject of debate regarding the “nailing to the cross” concept. Some argue that the Sabbath day has been abolished or done away with, while others maintain its ongoing significance. Luke 23:50-56 and 24:1-21 describe Jesus’ crucifixion on the Sabbath, which was a significant event in the history of Christianity. However, it is important to interpret these events within their historical context. The crucifixion was a time of suffering and sacrifice, not a literal abolition of the Sabbath. Luke 24:19-21 mentions that the Sabbath day ended when Jesus rose from the dead, symbolizing a new era of salvation and redemption.
Observance of the Sabbath in the New Heavens and New Earth
Isaiah 66:22-24 and Revelation 11:19 (cf. I Kings 8:9) indicate that the Sabbath will be observed in the future new heavens and new earth. These passages indicate that the Sabbath will continue to have a place in the eternal state of God’s creation. It will be a time for worship, rest, and fellowship with God and His people.
Conclusion
The origin and purpose of the Sabbath day are rooted in the divine plan of God. It serves as a reminder of God’s creative work and His love for humanity. The Sabbath is connected to the everlasting covenant and serves as a sign of God’s faithfulness. Failing to observe the Sabbath is
considered a sin, and the Sabbath day is a time of rest and worship. Jesus Christ and the Apostle Paul observed the Sabbath as part of their faith, and it remains a significant aspect of Christian practice. While the Sabbath has been a subject of debate regarding its relation to the cross, the Bible indicates its continued observance in the future new heavens and new earth.