Finding True Rest: The Sabbath in Christ
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. Today, we delve into the concept of the Sabbath as presented in the book of Exodus, particularly focusing on Exodus 20 and 31. The Sabbath, originally a day of rest for the Jews, was meant to cease all strenuous activities and honor God. However, in our New Testament context, the Sabbath is not about a specific day but about understanding the rhythm of life that includes rest. The New Covenant does not command a Sabbath day but points to a superior rest found in Jesus Christ.
In Exodus 31, God elaborates on the Sabbath, emphasizing its importance as a sign of the covenant between Him and His people. Observing the Sabbath was a way for the Israelites to demonstrate their unique relationship with God. However, over time, the Sabbath became a burden due to added restrictions and legalism, which was never God's intention. Jesus addressed this issue, teaching that the Sabbath was made for man's benefit, not as a burden.
The true essence of the Sabbath under the New Covenant is found in Hebrews 4, where it speaks of a superior rest that God offers through faith in Jesus Christ. This rest is not just a day off but a state of being that encompasses salvation and submission to God's will. Salvation rest means resting in the finished work of Christ, knowing that our salvation is secure. Submission rest involves being yoked with Jesus, finding rest even in the midst of life's chaos.
God designed us for a rhythm of work and rest, and this balance is crucial for a fulfilling life. Work is not a burden but a blessing, a way to fulfill God's purpose for us. By aligning our lives with God's design, we can experience a life of purpose, peace, and joy. The Sabbath rest is about living every day with the understanding that we are created for God's glory and our good.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Sabbath as a Sign of Covenant: The Sabbath was a sign of the covenant between God and the Israelites, meant to set them apart and demonstrate their unique relationship with Him. Observing the Sabbath was a way to honor God and show the world their connection to Him. This principle still applies today as we seek to live lives that reflect our relationship with God. [33:26]
2. Legalism vs. True Rest: Over time, the Sabbath became a burden due to added restrictions and legalism. Jesus taught that the Sabbath was made for man's benefit, not as a burden. True rest is found in understanding and embracing the purpose of the Sabbath, which is to provide a rhythm of rest and work that honors God. [37:39]
3. Salvation Rest: Under the New Covenant, the Sabbath points to a superior rest found in Jesus Christ. This rest is not just a day off but a state of being that encompasses salvation. Resting in the finished work of Christ means knowing that our salvation is secure and we can live in peace and assurance every day. [53:43]
4. Submission Rest: Submission rest involves being yoked with Jesus, finding rest even in the midst of life's chaos. By submitting to God's will and being yoked with Christ, we can experience rest in our souls, regardless of our circumstances. This rest is far superior to a mere day off. [56:48]
5. Work as a Blessing: Work is not a burden but a blessing, a way to fulfill God's purpose for us. God designed us for a rhythm of work and rest, and this balance is crucial for a fulfilling life. By aligning our lives with God's design, we can experience a life of purpose, peace, and joy. [01:01:14]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[29:09] - Introduction to the Sabbath
[30:31] - The Sabbath Command in Exodus 20
[32:00] - New Covenant Perspective on the Sabbath
[33:26] - Exodus 31: Deeper Understanding of the Sabbath
[34:46] - The Seriousness of Observing the Sabbath
[36:14] - The Purpose of the Sabbath
[37:39] - Legalism and the Sabbath
[38:56] - Jesus' Teachings on the Sabbath
[40:19] - Modern Misunderstandings of the Sabbath
[41:49] - Resting with a Focus on God
[43:13] - Work as Part of God's Design
[44:49] - The American Dream vs. God's Design
[46:13] - Hebrews 4: Superior Rest in Christ
[47:36] - The Fulfillment of the Old Law in Christ
[49:08] - The Promise of Entering God's Rest
[50:34] - Characteristics of God's Rest
[52:08] - Salvation Rest and Submission Rest
[53:43] - Resting in Salvation
[56:48] - Submission Rest: Yoked with Jesus
[58:16] - Living a Life of Rest
[01:01:14] - Work as a Blessing
[01:04:09] - Faith and Obedience
[01:08:15] - The Character of God's Rest
[01:11:01] - Eternal Rewards vs. Temporary Gains
[01:13:44] - The Command to Enter God's Rest
[01:15:04] - Living with Purpose and Peace
[01:16:36] - Conclusion and Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Exodus 20:8-11 - "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, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy."
2. Exodus 31:12-18 - "Then the Lord said to Moses, 'Say to the Israelites, "You must observe my Sabbaths. This will be a sign between me and you for the generations to come, so you may know that I am the Lord, who makes you holy. Observe the Sabbath, because it is holy to you. Anyone who desecrates it is to be put to death; those who do any work on that day must be cut off from their people. For six days work is to be done, but the seventh day is a day of sabbath rest, holy to the Lord. Whoever does any work on the Sabbath day is to be put to death. The Israelites are to observe the Sabbath, celebrating it for the generations to come as a lasting covenant. It will be a sign between me and the Israelites forever, for in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, and on the seventh day he rested and was refreshed." When the Lord finished speaking to Moses on Mount Sinai, he gave him the two tablets of the covenant law, the tablets of stone inscribed by the finger of God.'"
3. Hebrews 4:1-11 - "Therefore, since the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it. For we also have had the good news proclaimed to us, just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, because they did not share the faith of those who obeyed. Now we who have believed enter that rest, just as God has said, 'So I declared on oath in my anger, "They shall never enter my rest."' And yet his works have been finished since the creation of the world. For somewhere he has spoken about the seventh day in these words: 'On the seventh day God rested from all his works.' And again in the passage above he says, 'They shall never enter my rest.' Therefore since it still remains for some to enter that rest, and since those who formerly had the good news proclaimed to them did not go in because of their disobedience, God again set a certain day, calling it 'Today.' This he did when a long time later he spoke through David, as in the passage already quoted: 'Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.' For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken later about another day. There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God's rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience."
#### Observation Questions
1. What was the original purpose of the Sabbath as described in Exodus 20:8-11?
2. According to Exodus 31:12-18, what was the significance of the Sabbath for the Israelites?
3. How does Hebrews 4:1-11 describe the "superior rest" that God offers through faith in Jesus Christ?
4. What examples did the pastor give to illustrate how the Sabbath became a burden due to legalism? [[37:39]]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the concept of the Sabbath as a sign of the covenant in Exodus 31:12-18 apply to our relationship with God today?
2. In what ways did Jesus' teachings on the Sabbath challenge the legalistic practices of His time? [[38:56]]
3. What does it mean to experience "salvation rest" and "submission rest" as described in Hebrews 4 and the sermon? [[53:43]]
4. How can understanding the balance of work and rest as part of God's design impact our daily lives? [[44:49]]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your current work-rest balance. How can you incorporate a rhythm of rest that honors God in your weekly schedule? [[41:49]]
2. Have you ever felt burdened by legalistic practices in your faith? How can you shift your focus to the true rest that Jesus offers? [[37:39]]
3. What steps can you take to rest in the finished work of Christ and live with the assurance of your salvation? [[53:43]]
4. How can you practice "submission rest" by being yoked with Jesus in your daily activities, even amidst chaos? [[56:48]]
5. Think of a time when you viewed work as a burden rather than a blessing. How can you change your perspective to see work as part of God's purpose for you? [[44:49]]
6. Identify one area of your life where you need to trust God more and submit to His will. What practical steps can you take to grow in this area? [[01:04:09]]
7. How can you use your current job or daily responsibilities as a mission field to honor God and reflect His glory? [[01:02:46]]
Devotional
Day 1: The Sabbath as a Sign of Covenant
The Sabbath was a sign of the covenant between God and the Israelites, meant to set them apart and demonstrate their unique relationship with Him. Observing the Sabbath was a way to honor God and show the world their connection to Him. This principle still applies today as we seek to live lives that reflect our relationship with God. The Sabbath was not just a day of rest but a symbol of the special bond between God and His people. It was a way for the Israelites to visibly demonstrate their commitment to God and their distinctiveness from other nations.
In our lives today, while we may not observe the Sabbath in the same way, the principle remains. We are called to live in a way that reflects our relationship with God, setting us apart from the world. This means prioritizing time with God, resting in His presence, and living out our faith in tangible ways that others can see. By doing so, we honor God and show the world the unique relationship we have with Him. [33:26]
Exodus 31:16-17 (ESV): "Therefore the people of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, observing the Sabbath throughout their generations, as a covenant forever. It is a sign forever between me and the people of Israel that in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested and was refreshed."
Reflection: How can you set aside time this week to visibly demonstrate your commitment to God in a way that others can see?
Day 2: Legalism vs. True Rest
Over time, the Sabbath became a burden due to added restrictions and legalism. Jesus taught that the Sabbath was made for man's benefit, not as a burden. True rest is found in understanding and embracing the purpose of the Sabbath, which is to provide a rhythm of rest and work that honors God. Legalism turns what was meant to be a blessing into a burden, missing the heart of God's intention. Jesus emphasized that the Sabbath was created to serve humanity, not to enslave it.
In our lives, we must guard against turning God's gifts into burdens through legalism. True rest comes from understanding God's heart and purpose behind His commands. It is about finding a balance between work and rest that honors God and benefits us. By embracing this rhythm, we can experience the peace and rest that God intends for us. [37:39]
Mark 2:27 (ESV): "And he said to them, 'The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.'"
Reflection: Are there areas in your life where you have allowed legalism to turn God's blessings into burdens? How can you shift your perspective to embrace the true purpose of God's commands?
Day 3: Salvation Rest
Under the New Covenant, the Sabbath points to a superior rest found in Jesus Christ. This rest is not just a day off but a state of being that encompasses salvation. Resting in the finished work of Christ means knowing that our salvation is secure and we can live in peace and assurance every day. This superior rest is about trusting in Jesus' completed work on the cross and living in the confidence that our salvation is not dependent on our efforts but on His grace.
This rest transforms our daily lives, allowing us to live with a sense of peace and assurance, knowing that we are secure in Christ. It frees us from the anxiety of trying to earn our salvation and allows us to rest in the knowledge that Jesus has done it all. By embracing this salvation rest, we can experience a deeper sense of peace and joy in our daily lives. [53:43]
Hebrews 4:9-10 (ESV): "So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God's rest has also rested from his works as God did from his."
Reflection: How can you remind yourself daily of the finished work of Christ and live in the peace and assurance of your salvation?
Day 4: Submission Rest
Submission rest involves being yoked with Jesus, finding rest even in the midst of life's chaos. By submitting to God's will and being yoked with Christ, we can experience rest in our souls, regardless of our circumstances. This rest is far superior to a mere day off. It is about surrendering our burdens to Jesus and allowing Him to carry them with us. When we are yoked with Christ, we are not alone in our struggles; He is with us, providing strength and rest.
This submission rest requires us to trust in God's plan and timing, even when life is chaotic. It means letting go of our need to control and allowing Jesus to lead us. By doing so, we can find rest and peace in the midst of any situation, knowing that we are not carrying our burdens alone. [56:48]
Matthew 11:28-30 (ESV): "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. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
Reflection: What burdens are you carrying today that you need to surrender to Jesus? How can you practically yoke yourself with Him and find rest in your soul?
Day 5: Work as a Blessing
Work is not a burden but a blessing, a way to fulfill God's purpose for us. God designed us for a rhythm of work and rest, and this balance is crucial for a fulfilling life. By aligning our lives with God's design, we can experience a life of purpose, peace, and joy. Work is a way to use our gifts and talents to serve God and others, and it is an essential part of God's plan for our lives.
When we view work as a blessing, we can approach it with a sense of purpose and joy, knowing that we are fulfilling God's design for us. This perspective allows us to find meaning and satisfaction in our work, rather than seeing it as a burden. By balancing work with rest, we can live a fulfilling and joyful life that honors God. [01:01:14]
Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV): "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."
Reflection: How can you shift your perspective on work to see it as a blessing and a way to fulfill God's purpose for you? What practical steps can you take to balance work and rest in your life?
Quotes
1. "I think part of God's teaching on the sabbath day was teaching us the rhythm of life and how there needs to be rest incorporated into the rhythm of life. That's a good thing. So if you are able to have Sunday off from work, that's a great thing. Not every business does that anymore. So many more are working on Sundays now, doing business on Sundays. But the new covenant never repeats the sabbath day command. It's not commanded that we have to have a sabbath day as a part of our schedule." [30:31] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "So instead of thinking we're being bad for not keeping a sabbath day and we're trying to make it Sunday, that's not at all what the sabbath was trying to teach us. It's less than what God's teaching on the sabbath was trying to get us to understand and practice in our lives. So let's not settle for something less. Let's reach for the better thing that God was pointing to, foreshadowing in the teaching about the sabbath day in the Old Testament." [32:00] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Remember, everything in the old covenant is pointing ahead. Everything in the old covenant is a foreshadowing of God's big plan. Remember, God's got this amazing plan. It's for His glory. It's for our good. And so the sabbath day was intended to be something good for His people and something that would bring Him glory. That was the design of the sabbath day." [36:14] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "God intends to bless us with His instructions, with His teachings, not put burdens on us that make life harder for us. That's not what God's trying to do. He's trying to make life better for His people. And so He put in the rhythm of life this rest element to help them know that it's okay to build rest into the rhythm of your life. In fact, it's a good thing. It's a blessing. And it's one way you honor God." [41:49] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The key to sabbath rest is knowing your salvation is secure in Jesus. And you know that His love has provided that for you. And the Bible says it this way: if He would not withhold His only Son from you, what would He ever withhold from you that you really need?" [01:16:36] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "You are His work of art. You, every one of you hearing this message, you are a work of art of God. You are a masterpiece that He created. He says, created in Christ Jesus for a purpose though, to do good works which God prepared in advance for us to do." [01:13:44] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "Here's what He did in that design: He prepared good stuff He wanted you to be doing while you're here. And when you know that, you look at everything differently. When you understand that, then you get to experience this sabbath rest that God wanted to be pointing to in the old law. This is the fulfillment of the sabbath rest where you have a life of purpose and peace and joy that can only come in a relationship with Him." [01:15:04] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "You take Jesus into that place because that's your mission field that God has put you in right now. Now you may change later, but right now that's the mission field God has you in. So you yoke up with Jesus and go there with Him and represent Him well in that place. And you do your job, whatever it is, to honor Him because He's the one you're working for." [01:01:14] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "We have to stop thinking of work in our country as a burden instead of a blessing because you'll never have this restful life God wants you to have if you keep thinking of your job as a burden instead of a blessing. Whatever job you've got right now, you may have a job that's hard and the conditions are tough, but let me tell you this: you take Jesus into that place because that's your mission field that God has put you in right now." [01:02:46] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "You see, faith will replace that. Faith will eradicate that because you know you have a God who's got you in the palm of His hand and you don't have to be all stressed out about everything all the time. That's what faith does for you." [01:04:09] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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