Remembering the Sabbath

Remember the Sabbath to Keep it Holy

1. To “hollow” the Sabbath means to treat it with the utmost reverence and respect (Ezekiel 20:12, 20).

2. To “remember” the Sabbath means to think of it and plan for it all

week (Exodus 20:8-11).

3. To keep it “holy” means to keep it “wholly” for God.  Therefore, we will guard its edges carefully (Exodus 20:8-11).  See Amos 8:5 for the wrong attitude.

4. God’s idea for the Sabbath is a day of delight, not of dullness and “don’ts”, harshness and gloom (Isaiah 58:13,14).

5. We lay aside our own words, works and pleasures, and cares (Isaiah 58:13,14).

6. We prepare our foods, homes, and persons on the sixth day (Exodus 16:23; Luke 23:53-56).

7. No buying and selling on the Sabbath.  Business matters are not discussed (Nehemiah 10:31; 13:15-22).

8. The Sabbath is measured from sunset to sunset (Leviticus 23:32; Nehemiah 13:19) “Even” means sunset (Deuteronomy 16:6). We open and close the Sabbath with praise and prayer. 

9. The Sabbath is “a holy convocation” an assembly, or gathering together (Leviticus 23:3).  We assemble for joyous public worship (Luke 4:14; Acts 16:13).

10. Three books enrich the Sabbath hours:   The Bible, the hymnal, and the Book of Nature.

11. It is lawful to do well on the Sabbath days”  (Matthew 12:12).  We take sunshine, healing, and comfort to the sick and distressed.

12. We receive from Jesus the innermost sacrament of the Sabbath, “Rest for the soul” (Matthew 11:28-30); (Hebrew 4:9,10).  This is the ultimate goal of true Sabbath keeping.

Conclusion:

            The Psalmist prayed “Open Thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of Thy law” (Psalms 119:18).  It is only when our eyes have been opened by the Spirit of God that we come to see the true worth and beauty of the Sabbath.

            Obedience to God is more important than anything.  Persecution will soon rise.  Even in the face of persecution, we must take a decided stand for Jesus, just as He took a stand for us.  Prayerfully study God’s word.  He will give you the courage and strength to make the right decisions.