Subject: Are we supposed to observe the Sabbath? |
Bible Note: (continued) Kathy, It is probably pointless to argue about whether we should observe this sabbath day on Saturday or Sunday. The Orthodox Jews today follow a calendar which was established only in about the third century A.D., and we have no real assurance that their present "seventh day" is the same as the original seventh day of Creation Week. The status of sabbatical chronology prior to the exodus of Israel from Egypt is completely uncertain, and the confusion of other ancient calendars and chronology is notorious. There was even one day in history (the long day of Joshua 10:12-14) which was two days long! It is probable that our present weekly succession dates back to the time of Christ, but it is very doubtful before that. There are many people whose jobs require them, in fact, to work on both Saturday and Sunday. These people need, and should take, a real "sabbath" day on some other day of the week if necessary. The word "sabbath" basically means "cessation" or "rest," not "Saturday" or "Sunday." The point is that every "seventh" day is to be taken as a sabbath day. Normally, this should be on our modern Sunday, since this is the day when most Christians gather in their local churches to praise the Lord and study His Word. This worship on the "first day of the week" (Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:2) follows the practice of the early Christians, who evidently began it in commemoration of Christ's resurrection on that day (Luke 24:1; John 20:19,26). This day is highly appropriate, since the completion of His great work of redemption was demonstrated on that day. Sunday, therefore, circumstances permitting, should normally be observed (all day long!) as a day of spiritual fellowship with God's people in the church and with one's family in the home, in praise, and in study of His Word. Anything less is dishonoring to His remembrance, and harmful to one's own soul. Blessings to you, Makarios |