The Eternal Rest: Does God Change His Mind About the Sabbath?

Throughout history, the question of whether God has changed His mind regarding the observance of the Sabbath has been a topic of significant debate. In this article, we will explore Scriptural evidence to address whether the Sabbath commandment remains valid and binding even in the context of the New Covenant.

Unwavering Commitment of God

First and foremost, it is crucial to understand that God is unchanging. The Bible clearly states, 'For I am the LORD; I do not change' (Malachi 3:6). This eternal nature of God implies that His commands, including the Sabbath, remain consistent and relevant to all generations.

In Isaiah 1:13, God explicitly warns against false and vain practices, even forbidding offerings and assemblies, emphasizing the importance of sincerity in worship. However, God also reaffirms the significance of the Sabbath in Isaiah 56:6-7: 'The sons of the stranger that join themselves to the LORD to serve him and to love the name of the LORD to be his servants every one that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it and taketh hold of my covenant, even them will I bring to my holy mountain and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar.' This verse underscores that observing the Sabbath is a perpetual obligation for those who seek to honor God.

The Command to Keep the Sabbath

The accounts of Adam and Jesus both emphasize the importance of Sabbath observance, with Christians across time keeping it holy (Genesis 2:3, Exodus 20:8-11). God's command to keep the Sabbath is a testament to its eternal nature, as it has been a fundamental part of His covenant from the beginning.

Despite the severity of the punishment for breaking the Sabbath law as described in the Old Testament, it is important to contextualize this within the broader framework of the New Covenant. The Sabbath, when upheld as a personal choice and a sign of devotion to God, does not carry the same capital punishment mentioned in Leviticus 21:14. However, the intent and spirit of the Sabbath commandment remain just as important.

Scriptural Objections and the New Covenant

Fundamentalist adherents often invoke the severity of the punishment to argue that the Sabbath is still a law requiring strict adherence. However, the New Testament provides guidance on how Christians should approach the law. In Galatians 3:10-14, Paul writes, 'For all who rely on works of the law are under a curse; for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things written in the book of the law to do them.” But Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree.”' This passage indicates that the law, as previously given, has been fulfilled in Christ.

Furthermore, in Hebrews 10:1-10, the author argues that Christ is a new and better covenant, which means that the old system, including its legalistic requirements, is no longer binding. Christians are called to focus on the spiritual significance of keeping the Sabbath, rather than the literal letter of the law.

While some may interpret the Sabbath as a matter of liberty, others view it as a sacred obligation. If someone believes it is a law that must be strictly followed, the penalties described in the Old Testament can seem daunting. Yet, the essence of the Sabbath is about rest, reflection, and devotion to God. The article acknowledges that it is nearly impossible for anyone to keep the Sabbath without breaching it in some respect.

Conclusion

To conclude, while the Sabbath remains a divine command, its observance has evolved within the context of the New Covenant. It is a beautiful and personal way to honor God, rather than a legalistic requirement. As such, the central theme of the Sabbath commandment is no longer about punishment but about worship and devotion. The verses and scriptural references discussed above provide a comprehensive understanding of the Sabbath in the present context of Christianity.