The Believer's Sabbath
Understanding Scripture and God's Work through Christ
It's important for us to embrace the truths found in Scripture,
even if they don't fit perfectly into our own beliefs or theological systems.
- John G. Reisinger
The Humility and Exaltation of Christ
In Philippians 2:5-11 (NKJV), we see an extraordinary depiction of Jesus Christ. Although He existed as God, He chose to humble Himself, becoming human and obedient to death on a cross. Because of this, God exalted Him, giving Him a name above all names, so that every being will acknowledge Him as Lord. This passage is one of the most profound declarations by any apostle, emphasizing both the deity and humanity of Christ.
Christ's Sacrifice and Our Inheritance
2 Corinthians 8:9 (NKJV) reminds us that Jesus, though rich, became poor for our sake so that we might become spiritually rich. Before Jesus gave up His heavenly glory, He owned everything and was worshiped by all creation. But He chose to live a life of humility on earth, even lacking a place to lay His head. Before He came, we were spiritually poor, burdened with sin and shame. Through His sacrifice, He has adopted us into His family, making us co-heirs with Him, sharing in His glory.
The Work of Christ in Romans
In Romans 1:1-4 (NKJV), Paul introduces the gospel by describing Jesus Christ, who was born as a descendant of David and declared to be the Son of God through His resurrection. This passage highlights both His humanity and deity, focusing on His right to rule as a descendant of David and His exaltation as Lord through His resurrection.
Jesus' Role as Lord
The title "Son of David" in Romans 1 emphasizes Jesus' right to sit on David's throne, fulfilling God’s covenant to raise up a ruler with all authority. Jesus now reigns as Lord over God's redeemed creation. His resurrection didn't just prove His divinity; it marked the beginning of His new and unique Lordship, given as a reward for completing the work God assigned Him.
God's Work in Creation and Redemption
In Genesis, God's creation work is described as being completed in six days, with each day marked by work, completion, satisfaction, and rest. Similarly, in the new creation, God announced His intention to redeem humanity, accomplished this through Christ's death and resurrection, and expressed His satisfaction by exalting Jesus to His right hand.
The Significance of the Sabbath
Genesis 2:1-3 speaks of God resting on the seventh day after finishing His creation. However, this rest isn't about physical tiredness but about God’s enjoyment of His completed work. This seventh day is different from the other six because it has no end, symbolizing an eternal rest that could have continued if sin hadn't entered the world.
The Fall and the Need for Redemption
When sin entered the world, it disrupted both God’s and humanity’s rest. The curse brought hardship and toil, and creation itself was subjected to frustration. However, God immediately set in motion His plan to redeem and restore creation through the work of Christ, who came to fulfill what was lost.
Christ's Finished Work
The Bible shows that Christ’s work of redemption was a planned and purposeful task given by God. His declaration, "It is finished," on the cross, signifies the completion of this work. The resurrection and ascension are God's approval and satisfaction with His Son's work, and Christ’s sitting down at the right hand of God symbolizes the eternal rest He has secured.
The True Sabbath Rest in Christ
The Sabbath in the Old Testament pointed to the ultimate rest that Christ would bring through His work of redemption. This rest is not limited to a day of the week but is an eternal rest that we can now enter through faith in Christ.
Conclusion
Understanding the Sabbath as a symbol of Christ's completed work helps us appreciate the depth of His sacrifice and the rest He offers. Rather than focusing solely on the observance of a specific day, we should celebrate the eternal rest that Christ has made possible for us. This understanding brings joy and assurance, leading us to worship and rest in the finished work of our Savior.