Embracing the Sabbath: A Divine Invitation to Rest
Summary
In today's gathering, we embarked on a journey to explore the profound concept of Sabbath, a practice deeply rooted in biblical tradition and yet so relevant to our modern lives. The Sabbath, derived from the Hebrew word "Shabbat," meaning to cease or stop, is a divine invitation to pause from our relentless routines and reconnect with God. This series aims to delve into the four elements of Sabbath: stopping, resting, delighting, and worshiping God. Today, we focused on the first element—stopping.
The Sabbath is not merely a day off but a sacred rhythm established by God Himself, as seen in the creation narrative where God rested on the seventh day. This divine rest is not due to exhaustion but as a model for us to follow—a rhythm of work and rest that honors God. The Israelites, after their exodus from Egypt, were commanded to observe the Sabbath as a sign of trust in God's provision. Despite God's clear instructions, some still struggled to trust and rest, revealing a challenge that persists today.
In our fast-paced world, the concept of stopping can seem daunting. We are often caught in a cycle of busyness, believing that everything depends on us. Yet, the Sabbath calls us to surrender, to trust that God is in control, and to remember that we are not the center of the universe. Jesus, in the New Testament, redefined the Sabbath, emphasizing its purpose as a gift for humanity, not a burden. He challenged the legalistic views of His time, reminding us that the Sabbath is about relationship, not rules.
As we navigate this series, we are encouraged to reflect on how we can incorporate the Sabbath into our lives. It is a communal and justice issue, inviting us to create a culture where everyone can experience God's rest, regardless of their circumstances. This journey is personal and unique for each of us, requiring us to start where we are, not where we think we should be. By embracing the Sabbath, we align ourselves with God's rhythm, finding peace and joy in His presence.
Key Takeaways:
1. Sabbath as Divine Rhythm: The Sabbath is a divine rhythm established by God, inviting us to cease from our labors and rest in His presence. It is a reminder that work and rest are both good and essential for worshiping God. This rhythm, rooted in creation, calls us to trust in God's provision and sovereignty. [33:14]
2. Trust and Surrender: Observing the Sabbath is an act of trust and surrender, acknowledging that God is in control. It challenges us to stop striving and worrying, recognizing that the world continues without us. This trust is a profound declaration of faith, reminding us that Jesus is Lord, and we are not. [34:51]
3. Sabbath as a Gift: Jesus redefined the Sabbath as a gift for humanity, emphasizing its purpose as a time for rest and renewal. It is not about legalistic adherence to rules but about experiencing God's grace and presence. The Sabbath invites us to find our identity and worth in God, not in our achievements. [43:56]
4. Communal and Justice Issue: The Sabbath is not just an individual practice but a communal and justice issue. It calls us to create a culture where everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can experience God's rest. This includes addressing issues of inequality and providing support for those who struggle to find rest. [46:55]
5. Personal Journey: Embracing the Sabbath is a personal journey, unique to each individual's circumstances. It requires us to start where we are, taking small steps towards incorporating rest and worship into our lives. By doing so, we align ourselves with God's rhythm, finding peace and joy in His presence. [53:35]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [16:29] - Announcements and Prayer
- [18:50] - Special Recognition for Local Ministers
- [20:33] - Prayer for Esther and Barry
- [23:59] - Introduction to the Sabbath Series
- [33:14] - Understanding the Sabbath
- [34:51] - Trust and Surrender in the Sabbath
- [37:51] - The Ten Commandments and the Sabbath
- [41:36] - Jesus and the Sabbath
- [43:56] - Sabbath as a Gift
- [46:55] - Communal and Justice Aspects of Sabbath
- [53:35] - Personal Journey with the Sabbath
- [01:06:39] - Communion and Reflection
- [01:09:33] - Prayer and Worship
- [01:15:31] - Closing Worship and Song
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Exploring the Sabbath
Bible Reading:
1. Genesis 2:2-3 - "By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done."
2. Exodus 16:23-30 - The Israelites are instructed to observe the Sabbath as a day of rest and trust in God's provision.
3. Mark 2:23-28 - Jesus teaches that the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.
Observation Questions:
1. According to Genesis 2:2-3, what did God do on the seventh day, and why is this significant for understanding the Sabbath?
2. In Exodus 16:23-30, how did the Israelites initially respond to God's command about the Sabbath, and what does this reveal about their trust in God? [34:51]
3. What was Jesus' response to the Pharisees' criticism in Mark 2:23-28, and how does this redefine the purpose of the Sabbath?
4. How does the sermon describe the challenge of stopping in our fast-paced world, and what are some reasons people struggle with this concept? [46:55]
Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the concept of Sabbath as a "divine rhythm" challenge our modern understanding of work and rest? [33:14]
2. What does it mean to trust and surrender to God by observing the Sabbath, and how might this look in practical terms? [34:51]
3. How does Jesus' teaching in Mark 2:23-28 shift the focus of the Sabbath from legalistic rules to a relational gift?
4. In what ways is the Sabbath described as a communal and justice issue, and how might this impact our approach to rest and equality in society? [46:55]
Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your current work-rest balance. How can you incorporate a Sabbath rhythm into your weekly routine to better align with God's design for rest? [33:14]
2. Consider an area of your life where you struggle to trust God's provision. How might observing the Sabbath help you surrender control and deepen your faith? [34:51]
3. Jesus emphasized the Sabbath as a gift. What steps can you take to experience the Sabbath as a time of renewal and grace rather than a burden? [43:56]
4. How can you contribute to creating a culture where everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can experience God's rest? What practical actions can you take to address issues of inequality and support others in finding rest? [46:55]
5. Identify one small change you can make this week to begin embracing the Sabbath. How will you ensure this change is sustainable and meaningful in your life? [53:35]
6. Think about a time when you felt overwhelmed by busyness. How can the practice of Sabbath help you find peace and joy in God's presence during such times? [46:55]
7. Discuss with your family or friends how you can collectively observe the Sabbath. What activities or practices can you incorporate to make this a shared experience of rest and worship? [53:35]
Devotional
Day 1: Embracing God's Rhythm of Rest
The Sabbath is a divine rhythm established by God, inviting us to cease from our labors and rest in His presence. It is a reminder that work and rest are both good and essential for worshiping God. This rhythm, rooted in creation, calls us to trust in God's provision and sovereignty. Observing the Sabbath is not just about taking a day off but about aligning ourselves with the divine pattern set by God. In a world that often glorifies busyness, the Sabbath offers a countercultural invitation to pause and find our rest in God. By embracing this rhythm, we acknowledge that our worth is not tied to our productivity but to our identity as beloved children of God. [33:14]
"For thus said the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel, 'In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.' But you were unwilling." (Isaiah 30:15, ESV)
Reflection: How can you intentionally create space in your week to embrace God's rhythm of rest, acknowledging His sovereignty over your life?
Day 2: Trusting in God's Sovereignty
Observing the Sabbath is an act of trust and surrender, acknowledging that God is in control. It challenges us to stop striving and worrying, recognizing that the world continues without us. This trust is a profound declaration of faith, reminding us that Jesus is Lord, and we are not. In a culture that often equates busyness with importance, the Sabbath invites us to let go of our need to control and to rest in the assurance that God holds all things together. By surrendering our anxieties and trusting in His provision, we find peace and strength in His presence. [34:51]
"Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him, and he will act. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday." (Psalm 37:5-6, ESV)
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find it difficult to trust God? How can you practice surrendering this area to Him this week?
Day 3: Receiving the Sabbath as a Gift
Jesus redefined the Sabbath as a gift for humanity, emphasizing its purpose as a time for rest and renewal. It is not about legalistic adherence to rules but about experiencing God's grace and presence. The Sabbath invites us to find our identity and worth in God, not in our achievements. In a world that often measures success by accomplishments, the Sabbath reminds us that we are valued not for what we do but for who we are in Christ. By receiving the Sabbath as a gift, we open ourselves to the transformative power of God's love and grace. [43:56]
"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." (Matthew 11:28-29, ESV)
Reflection: How can you shift your perspective to see the Sabbath as a gift rather than an obligation? What steps can you take to experience God's grace and presence more fully?
Day 4: Cultivating a Culture of Rest and Justice
The Sabbath is not just an individual practice but a communal and justice issue. It calls us to create a culture where everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can experience God's rest. This includes addressing issues of inequality and providing support for those who struggle to find rest. By advocating for a Sabbath culture, we participate in God's work of justice and restoration, ensuring that all people have the opportunity to experience His peace and renewal. This communal aspect of the Sabbath challenges us to consider how our actions and systems impact others' ability to rest. [46:55]
"Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke?" (Isaiah 58:6, ESV)
Reflection: In what ways can you contribute to creating a culture of rest and justice in your community? How can you support those who struggle to find rest?
Day 5: Beginning Your Personal Sabbath Journey
Embracing the Sabbath is a personal journey, unique to each individual's circumstances. It requires us to start where we are, taking small steps towards incorporating rest and worship into our lives. By doing so, we align ourselves with God's rhythm, finding peace and joy in His presence. This journey is not about perfection but about progress, as we learn to prioritize our relationship with God and make space for His rest in our lives. As we embark on this journey, we are invited to listen to God's voice and follow His leading, trusting that He will guide us each step of the way. [53:35]
"Thus says the LORD: 'Stand by the roads, and look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is; and walk in it, and find rest for your souls. But they said, 'We will not walk in it.'" (Jeremiah 6:16, ESV)
Reflection: What small step can you take this week to begin your personal Sabbath journey? How can you create a rhythm of rest and worship that aligns with your unique circumstances?
Quotes
"So, we are starting our new series today on Sabbath. If you don't know what that is, typically it's understood as a 24-hour day of rest within the week. And I'm really excited to be preaching about this topic. I probably began to think about it a number of years ago when John, who was associate pastor, and he was having a sabbatical." [00:31:30]
"I've been putting it off for ages because I find it overwhelming to think about how huge this, this topic is and all the ways that we could think about Sabbath. There's a lot to study within it. But I've also been putting it off because I knew that to preach on this would mean there would have to be some changes in my own life." [00:32:16]
"The word Sabbath comes from the Hebrew word Shabbat, which literally means to see, to desist, to stop. And traditionally and historically, it referred to the seventh day of the week and the Jews would rest and worship on the seventh day. But its roots and its origin go even further back than that." [00:33:27]
"What it's saying more than anything else is that God created the world and with it, he established the rhythm of work and rest when it talks about God resting on the seventh day. It's not because he was completely exhausted by all the hard work he'd been putting on the other six days. Actually, even in the fabric of creation, God is saying work is good." [00:34:29]
"And rest is good and both are fundamental to worship him right at the beginning. We see this pattern for us productive work and good rest a day that is different from anything else that you do in the week it was built into the rhythm of creation and we can be honest about the fact that to go against that has consequences." [00:34:50]
"So interesting because right back in the book of Exodus, we begin to see some of the most important themes of Sabbath beginning to be introduced. Sabbath is about surrender. Sabbath is about trusting that Jesus is Lord. Taking the day to stop is knowing that the world will still continue without you, because we are not God." [00:37:51]
"Now, the next time we hear about the Sabbath, interestingly, it's just a few chapters on in Exodus 20. And you'll be familiar with this, even if you've never been in church before, because it's the Ten Commandments, these instructions from God on how we should live. And there it is, right in number four, right in the midst of having no other God and not murdering anybody, we read this, Exodus 20, 8-11." [00:38:53]
"Ten commandments, and one of them is not repeated. When we read about Sabbath in the New Testament, often Jesus and the New Testament writers are challenging the way that the New Testament is written. The way that the Jews practice the Sabbath. Even more than this, Jesus is seen openly breaking the rules of the Sabbath and challenging how the Jewish people understood it." [00:40:56]
"Sabbath is supposed to be a reminder that we are saved by God. When we read about communion, we're told to remember God. We're told to remember what Jesus did in communion. And when we read about communion, there are allusions to this in the Old Testament, I think, when we read about Sabbath. Because when we read about Sabbath in the Old Testament, we remember who God is, and we actually root it in the rhythm of our lives." [00:42:00]
"And that brings me to the second point that I think Jesus is absolutely trying to remind his people of when he speaks about the purpose of Sabbath. It's first and foremost a reminder that we are saved by God and he is Lord. And then it's a reminder of our rhythm and our rest in him. Sabbath is a gift." [00:44:18]
"So come to our words then for today. Sabbath is to stop. Stop working. Stop worrying. Stop striving. Stop hurrying. So why is it needed then? Why is it so needed to think about stopping and thinking about the Sabbath? Why is that so important? Well, I hardly need to go into this probably because our world is moving at an incredible rate." [00:46:55]
"maybe there are a million clubs that your kids have to do on a Saturday and carving out the time is really tough maybe you're on your own and Sabbath for you is lonely and boring and there will be even more issues within this room which make it challenging to think about this topic but we've already heard that it's really important we've already heard that it's throughout scripture and so there must be something for everybody in this for us to consider" [00:49:32]
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