When it comes to observing the Sabbath, there’s a lot of debate among Christians and people interested in biblical teachings. You might be wondering, “Is keeping the Sabbath still a commandment we need to follow?” Let’s dive into what the Bible says about the Sabbath and how it applies to us today.
What Is the Sabbath?
The Sabbath is traditionally the seventh day of the week, Saturday, and is a day of rest and worship. It’s rooted in the creation story where God rested on the seventh day after creating the world:
“By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work” (Genesis 2:2, NIV).
The Fourth Commandment
In the Ten Commandments given to Moses on Mount Sinai, the Sabbath is explicitly mentioned:
“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it, you shall not do any work…” (Exodus 20:8-10, NIV).
This makes it clear that in the Old Testament, observing the Sabbath was a direct commandment from God. It wasn’t just about rest but also about dedicating time to honor God.
Why Was the Sabbath Important?
For the Israelites, the Sabbath was a sign of their covenant with God. It was a way to set themselves apart from other nations and to remember God’s creation and His deliverance from Egypt:
“Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and that the Lord your God brought you out of there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. Therefore the Lord your God has commanded you to observe the Sabbath day” (Deuteronomy 5:15, NIV).
Jesus and the Sabbath
When Jesus came, He brought new perspectives on many Old Testament laws, including the Sabbath. He often challenged the Pharisees and their strict interpretations of Sabbath observance. One notable instance is when His disciples picked grain on the Sabbath and were criticized by the Pharisees. Jesus responded:
“The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath” (Mark 2:27-28, NIV).
What Did Jesus Mean?
Jesus emphasized that the Sabbath should benefit people. It wasn’t meant to be a burden or a legalistic rule but a day for rest and reflection. His approach showed that the spirit of the law was more important than the letter.
The Early Church and the Sabbath
After Jesus’ resurrection, the early Christians began to gather on Sundays to celebrate His victory over death, calling it the “Lord’s Day” (Revelation 1:10, NIV). This shift from Saturday to Sunday reflects the new covenant through Jesus Christ and His resurrection, which occurred on a Sunday.
Did They Abandon the Sabbath?
It’s important to note that early Jewish Christians often observed both the Sabbath and the Lord’s Day. Over time, as Christianity spread among non-Jewish communities, Sunday worship became more common, and the strict Sabbath observance wasn’t as emphasized.
Do We Have to Keep the Sabbath Today?
This is where interpretations diverge among Christians. Some believe that the Sabbath commandment still applies, while others see it as part of the old covenant that’s been fulfilled through Jesus. Let’s explore both views.
Sabbath Observance as an Ongoing Commandment
- Continuationists: Those who believe in keeping the Sabbath argue that it’s a timeless moral law. They point out that the Ten Commandments are foundational and shouldn’t be discarded. Some denominations, like Seventh-day Adventists, observe the Sabbath on Saturday.
- Biblical Support: Advocates reference verses like Isaiah 56:2 (NIV), “Blessed is the one who does this… who keeps the Sabbath without desecrating it…” and Hebrews 4:9 (NIV), which speaks of a “Sabbath rest for the people of God.”
Sabbath as Fulfilled in Christ
- Fulfillment View: Others argue that Jesus fulfilled the Sabbath commandment through His life, death, and resurrection. They believe that rest and worship are principles rather than specific days. Colossians 2:16-17 (NIV) supports this view: “Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.”
- New Covenant: They see the weekly Sabbath as symbolic of the rest we find in Christ every day, not just one day of the week.
Practical Application for Today
So, what should you do? Here’s a practical approach:
- Rest and Worship: Whether you choose Saturday, Sunday, or another day, setting aside time for rest and worship is essential. It’s a way to honor God and recharge physically and spiritually.
- Personal Conviction: Romans 14:5 (NIV) says, “One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind.” Your decision should be based on your understanding and conviction.
- Community and Tradition: Consider your faith community’s practices and your family’s traditions. These can provide meaningful ways to observe the principles of the Sabbath.
- Focus on the Spirit: Remember Jesus’ teaching that the Sabbath is for our benefit. Whatever day you choose, let it be a time that blesses you and deepens your relationship with God.
Conclusion
Is keeping the Sabbath a commandment? It depends on your interpretation and faith tradition. What’s clear is that rest, worship, and honoring God’s creation are timeless principles. Whether you observe the Sabbath on Saturday, Sunday, or another day, the goal is to find rest in God and celebrate His goodness.
By embracing these practices, you’re honoring the essence of the Sabbath and its significance in your life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Keeping the Sabbath
1. What is the Sabbath?
The Sabbath is a day of rest and worship, traditionally observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening. It’s rooted in the biblical account of God resting on the seventh day after creating the world (Genesis 2:2).
2. Is keeping the Sabbath still a commandment for Christians?
This depends on your interpretation and faith tradition. Some Christians believe it remains a moral commandment to be observed on Saturday, while others see it fulfilled in Christ and observe a day of rest and worship on Sunday or another day.
3. What did Jesus say about the Sabbath?
Jesus emphasized that “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” (Mark 2:27). He taught that the Sabbath should benefit people and not be a legalistic burden.
4. Why do many Christians worship on Sunday instead of Saturday?
Sunday worship began with the early Christians celebrating Jesus’ resurrection, which occurred on a Sunday. This day became known as the “Lord’s Day” and gradually replaced the traditional Saturday Sabbath observance among many Christian communities.
5. Can I choose any day to observe the Sabbath?
Yes, according to Romans 14:5, each person should be fully convinced in their own mind about which day to observe. The key is setting aside time for rest and worship, regardless of the specific day.
6. What are the benefits of keeping the Sabbath?
Observing the Sabbath provides physical rest, mental rejuvenation, and spiritual renewal. It’s an opportunity to focus on God, family, and community, breaking from the routine of work and daily stress.
7. How can I observe the Sabbath in a modern context?
- Set aside time for rest: Avoid work and focus on relaxing activities.
- Engage in worship: Attend church services, pray, or meditate.
- Spend time with family: Use the day to connect with loved ones.
- Reflect and recharge: Take the time to reflect on your faith and recharge spiritually.
8. What does the Bible say about not keeping the Sabbath?
In the Old Testament, not keeping the Sabbath was seen as disobedience to God’s command. However, in the New Testament, Colossians 2:16-17 indicates that observance of specific days, including the Sabbath, is not a basis for judgment under the new covenant in Christ.
9. How do different Christian denominations view the Sabbath?
- Seventh-day Adventists: Observe the Sabbath on Saturday as a holy day of rest.
- Roman Catholics, Orthodox Christians, and many Protestants: Generally observe Sunday as a day of worship and rest.
- Non-denominational Christians: May choose any day for rest and worship based on personal conviction.
10. Is the Sabbath the same as Sunday?
No, traditionally the Sabbath is Saturday, the seventh day of the week. Sunday is often referred to as the “Lord’s Day” in Christian practice, commemorating Jesus’ resurrection.
11. Can I work on the Sabbath if my job requires it?
This is a matter of personal conviction. Many Christians who need to work on traditional Sabbath days find other ways to observe rest and worship. Balancing work responsibilities and spiritual practices is key.
12. What does it mean that Jesus is the “Lord of the Sabbath”?
When Jesus said He is the “Lord of the Sabbath” (Mark 2:28), He indicated that He has authority over the Sabbath and its observance. It means that the principles of rest and worship find their fulfillment in Him.
13. How can I explain my Sabbath observance to friends or family who don’t share the same view?
Communicate your reasons clearly and respectfully. Explain the personal and spiritual significance the Sabbath holds for you, and be open to discussing different perspectives.
14. Do I have to follow specific rules on the Sabbath?
The focus should be on rest and worship. While traditional Sabbath observance involves specific prohibitions, like not working, Jesus taught that the spirit of the Sabbath is more important than strict rules. Each person can decide how best to honor this day.
15. How does the concept of the Sabbath apply to daily life?
Beyond a weekly observance, the Sabbath principle encourages regular rest and spiritual renewal. It reminds us to find balance and make time for God, family, and self-care in our daily routines.
