The Covenant Relationship:
Observing His Rest

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And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, {13} Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the LORD that doth sanctify you. ... {17} It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.
Exodus 31:13-14, 17
Elohim's Sabbath
The Sabbath Belongs to Elohim
My Sabbaths
Sabbath unto Yahveh
Israel's Sabbath

Sabbath in Scripture
The Seventh Day in Hebrew
The Seventh Day in Greek
What is Rest
What is Work
Doing good on the Sabbath

The Sabbath at Creation
The Seventh Day is Sanctified
The Seventh Day is Blessed

Physical Aspects of Sabbath
Seventh Day in World Calendars
Seventh Day in World Languages
Chronobiology
Ten Day Work Week
Farming and Soil Nutrition

Spiritual Aspects of Sabbath
Exploring the Spiritual
Tabernacle Instructions
Blessings for Observing the Sabbath

History of Sabbath Observance
The Patriarchs
Sinai Covenant
The Kingdoms
The Messiah
The Apostles
Rabbinical Judaism
Christianity

Sabbath within the Covenant Relationship
The Relationship
The Covenant
The Sabbath Commandment
The Sabbath Observance
Also 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; {7} 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; for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people.
Isaiah 56:6-7

Judgment regarding the Sabbath
Regarding Salvation
Separation from the Almighty
Judgment on an Individual
Judgment on a Nation

The Messiah and the Sabbath
Messiah our Example
Legalism of the Pharisees

The Sabbath in Prophecy
Future Temple
The Millennial Kingdom
The New Covenant

Evil regarding the Sabbath
Attacking the Sabbath
Destroying the Sabbath
Changing the Sabbath
Battle for Purity

One Day or Long Age Debate
Regarding Scripture
Regarding Theology
Regarding Science
The Gap Theory
All is Good on the Seventh Day
Theistic Evolution and the Day Age Theory
The False Basis

Seventh Day or First Day Debate
Seventh Day or First Day Sabbath
The Sabbath Day is Chosen
The Covenant Relationship
Fulfilling the Law
First Day of the Week
Lord's Day of the Resurrection
Do Not go Out on Sabbath

Summary
Sabbath and the Creator
Sabbath and the Creation
Sabbath in the Covenant Relationship
Sabbath and Battle with Evil


Elohim's Sabbath

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, {2} Speak unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto them, Ye shall be holy: for I the LORD your God am holy. {3} Ye shall fear every man his mother, and his father, and keep my Sabbaths: I am the LORD your God.
Leviticus 19:1-3

The Sabbath belongs to Elohim

As we read Scripture, one of the striking elements regarding the Sabbath is that it belongs to Elohim and that it was given to man for his sanctification. Elohim made the rest on the seventh day of the creation week and set it apart. He rested not because of tiredness or fatigue. Instead, He ceased His work of building up and creating the universe and the world because it was complete. Afterwards, observance of the Sabbath becomes part of mankind's relationship with the Almighty through past, present, and future and is used to identify His people.

My Sabbaths

The phrase "ye shall keep My Sabbaths", or slight variations thereof, occur fifteen times in the Bible. P1 In the Hebrew it is שַׁבְּתֹתַי , or shabtohta, which is both possessive and plural in form. This phrase is used with some of the strongest statements that Elohim makes with His people Israel. In fact, with many of these passages, the phrase 'I am Yahveh' is included. This is directly connected to being sanctified, set-apart (holy), undefiled, blessed, and pleasing to Elohim. Polluting and profaning the Sabbath is identified with idolatry, despising His statues, and defiling the sanctuary. In short, He makes it clear that His people are to keep His Sabbath as a sign of their sanctification.
But the seventh day is the Sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thine ox, nor thine ass, nor any of thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates; that thy manservant and thy maidservant may rest as well as thou. {15} And remember that thou wast a servant in the land of Egypt, and that the LORD thy God brought thee out thence through a mighty hand and by a stretched out arm: therefore the LORD thy God commanded thee to keep the Sabbath day.
Deuteronomy 5:14-15

Sabbath unto Yahveh

The phrase שַׁבָת לַיהוָה 'Sabbath unto Yahveh' occurs ten times in the Books of Moses (aka Pentateuch, Torah). P2 It is described as being a time of rest with no work, as being set-apart, and a time of convocation. It is further instructed to be observed by all people, the cattle, and even the land. The emphasis is on resting upon the seventh day because He rested.

Israel's Sabbath

As a comparison, there is only one time that is called Israel's Sabbath. P3 This Sabbath falls on the Day of Atonement which can occur on any day of the week following the instructions to be on the tenth day of the seventh month. This is the event when the priest enters the most set apart place to make atonement for the people. It is prophetically connected with the time of the Great White Throne judgment that comes after the Millennial Kingdom and at the end of the 7000 years.

The Sabbath in Scripture

Six days shall work be done: but the seventh day is the Sabbath of rest, an holy convocation; ye shall do no work therein: it is the Sabbath of the LORD in all your dwellings.
Leviticus 23:3

The Seventh Day in Hebrew

The Hebrew language distinguishes between the seventh day and the action of resting. The seventh day comes in the form of הַיוֹם הַשְׁבִיעִי (pronounced hayom hashvee'ee) while Sabbath comes in the form שׁבַּת (pronounced shabbat). A literal reading of the Hebrew language reveals where the emphasis is placed regarding this topic. The phrase 'Sabbath Day', as commonly in many translations, comes from the Hebrew phrase הַיוֹם הַשַׁבָּת (hayom hashabbat) which more literally reads as 'day of rest'. Just as the phrase 'son of David' would emphasize the topic of the son and not David himself, the phrase 'day of rest' emphasizes the day and not the rest which is only a modifier of day. This phrase is frequently used to refer to the seventh day when instructions and commandments are being given to the people of Israel.

The Seventh Day in Greek

The Greek language likewise distinguishes between the seventh day τη ήμέρα τη έβδόμη (hemera hebdomos) and the rest σάββατον (sabbaton). This becomes important when working with interpretation and doctrine because they are not the same thing. For example, it is not uncommon to see doctrine that states the Sabbath has been sanctified from the time of creation. Technically, what we read in Genesis 2:3 is that the seventh day was blessed and not the rest that occurred.

What is Rest

Within Scripture, the Hebrew word שבת , or shabbat, properly means 'to rest' or 'not working'. The concept of resting would probably often work as a better translation then the word sabbath for an understanding of passages using this word. For example, the phrase 'Sabbath Day' would read 'the day of rest' and the 'Sabbath unto Yahveh' would read the 'rest unto Yahveh'.

What is Work

Since we are instructed not to work on the Day of Rest, then it would be helpful to know what is and is not considered work. It is not strictly making or doing something since there is another Hebrew word for this. Also it is not the idea of creating something since this is also another word and typically limited to actions made by the Almighty. Instead, this word is מְלָאכָה or 'melakah' which is often translated as work or occupation. The connotation of the word implies much more which can be seen in its use in Scripture. It includes building things up, gathering, studying, earning, and producing all of which have the common theme of increasing something. Thus work seems to suggest our physical labors to increase in amount what already exists.

Doing Good on the Sabbath

Many times in the Gospels, the Messiah is accused of breaking the Sabbath rest. Often, He did not break a commandment of Elohim, but rather one of the man-made laws of the Pharisees. Yet through His actions and teachings we see that there is a time to make effort on the day of rest. This often involves stopping or preventing the loss of something. Such examples of a persons health being lost and having a healing, or of an animal falling in a pit and being rescued, of gathering food when suffering from hunger, or sharing with others who have a need. These types of situations are all answered by Messiah with a message of guiltless or innocent. In our rest we are instructed not to build up or increase what we have on the Sabbath and yet effort is allowed to prevent suffering and loss. A great work indeed is loosing those that are bound by Satan.

The Sabbath at Creation

Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. {2} And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made. {3} And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.
Genesis 2:1-3

The Seventh Day is Sanctified

During the week of creation, Elohim made the Heavens and the Earth for six days. On the seventh day, the work was complete and He rested from His labor. At this time Elohim blessed and sanctified the seventh day thereby setting it apart for special use for all time. The Hebrew word, normally translated as holy in most English Bibles, is qadosh, but more accurately means “to set apart”. So we see that the Sabbath is the very first thing that the Scriptures record as being set-apart by our Creator. The Sabbath of Elohim is mentioned in Scripture over 100 times and always refers to the seventh day of the week. P4

The Seventh Day is Blessed

During creation week, Elohim gave three blessings: On the fifth day, He blessed the birds and sea creatures, on the sixth day He blessed Man, and He blessed the seventh day itself, the Sabbath. The Sabbath is not only set-apart but blessed, right from the beginning of time.

Physical Aspects of Sabbath

And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:
Genesis 1:14

Seventh Day in World Calendars

Around the world, calendars use either cycles in astronomical movements or simple math to determine the length of days, months, and years. However, almost all cultures use a seven day week which does not match up with either system. This suggests that the seven day week is very old. Also, this week is commonly made up of six working days and one day of rest. Research has little if any explanation of this phenomenon.
Hebrew
Babylonian
Arabic
Spanish
Russian
Afghan 		HaShabbat
Sabatu
as-sabt
Sabado
Subbota
Shamba
Language Samples

Seventh Day in World Languages

There are currently hundreds of languages around the world - made from roughly 70 language groups. The occurrence of a word like 'Sabbath' to name the seventh day of the week is found in many of these languages and language groups. This suggests such a name is very old. This could also be evidence towards the use of the word before and after the dispersion of the tower of Babel.

Chronobiology

Chronobiology is the study of temporal (time) cycles on biological organisms through biochemical, physiological, or behavioral processes. There are patterns and rhythms that are built into plants, animals, and mankind. This can focus on a short period of time such as occurs daily, weekly, or with tidal fluctuations. There are also longer rhythms with seasonal or annual patterns. Perhaps the best known of these is the circadian rhythm which is a 24-hour cycle, which is based heavily on sunlight, that signals the body when it is time to wake, sleep, or eat.

Ten Day Work Week

In regards to a weekly rhythm, we are commanded in Scripture to rest on the seventh day of each week. We are learning that this is important and even necessary on a biological basis. Mental performance is found to decrease during the course of the week and lack of rest leads to increased stress on the body and tearing down of tissue. This was exemplified during the French Revolution starting in 1792. As an effort to undermine the Christian calendar, a new decimal calendar with ten day work weeks and three week months was instituted and continued for 13 years. One of the major consequences was an increase in illness for people and the death of the work horses.

Farming Techniques

We are further instructed in Scripture to allow the land to rest every seven years. We have learned that soil nutrition is depleted with each passing season of growing crops, but replenishment comes quickly when allowed to lie fallow (to rest).

Spiritual Aspects of Sabbath

And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the LORD thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth: {2} And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God.
Deuteronomy 28:1-2

Exploring the Spiritual

That which occurs in the physical shows the effects of and is caused by what has already happened in the spiritual. It is much like the physical sighting of an iceberg and knowing that what we can see is only a small fraction of what is there. The spiritual part of life is measured in righteousness and aspects of life regarding the Sabbath are no different because what the Almighty speaks has an impact in life.

Tabernacle Instructions

A central focus of worship comes with the Tabernacle / Temple existing with the Almighty's people as His dwelling place with His people. The Sabbath day has special instructions for worship and sacrifice. This specifically included two lambs with flour and drink as a burnt offering in addition to the regulary daily sacrifices and offering. So important is this, that the priests are allowed to profane the Sabbath and yet they are held guiltless. P5

Blessings for Observing the Sabbath

Blessing and cursing is essentially doing good or evil to others on a spiritual level rather than on a physical level. Covenants often come with rewards and punishments built into them. In the Mosaic covenant, the Sabbath comes up in Scripture many times as a topic that can bring a blessing or a curse, especially since it is one of the covenant commandments.

History of Sabbath Observance

And I will make thy seed to multiply as the stars of heaven, and will give unto thy seed all these countries; and in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; {5} Because that Abraham obeyed my voice, and kept my charge, my commandments, my statutes, and my laws.
Genesis 26:4-5

The Patriarchs

The question has arisen as to whether the laws given at Mount Sinai were known and followed by the Patriarchs of Israel (and others in the world as well) from the time of Adam through Moses. The only thing offered to support such a position is that there is no specific command to keep these laws recorded. While technically true, it is a weak argument since not everything is recorded. All the more important, the evidence of the actions of the Patriarchs suggest that these laws were known and obeyed. Noah, at the coming of the flood, knew the difference between the clean and the unclean animals (Gen 6:2). Even more, Abraham is recorded as keeping the commandments and laws (Gen 26:4-5).

The Sinai Covenant

After the Egyptian slavery, the time had come for the Nation of Israel to physically receive from the promises given to Abraham by going to the promised land. During this journey Elohim made a covenant with the people that, if obeyed, would give them blessing and that, if disobeyed, would bring cursing and the eventual removal from the land. This covenant is summed up in the Ten Commandments which were written in Stone. The fourth commandment states that the Sabbath, the seventh day rest, is to be observed. Furthermore this rest, which was set-apart to Yahveh, was chosen as a sign of the sanctification of the Nation of Israel.
There dwelt men of Tyre also therein, which brought fish, and all manner of ware, and sold on the Sabbath unto the children of Judah, and in Jerusalem. {17} Then I contended with the nobles of Judah, and said unto them, What evil thing is this that ye do, and profane the Sabbath day? {18} Did not your fathers thus, and did not our God bring all this evil upon us, and upon this city? yet ye bring more wrath upon Israel by profaning the Sabbath.
Nehemiah 13:16-18

The Kingdoms

As with all of the laws, the time of the Judges and the Kings of Israel had periods of time with faithfulness to the covenant and times of unfaithfulness. The observance of the Sabbath laws were no exception. The historical account reveals the effects of the blessings and the cursings that followed the nations actions up to and including the removal from the land of Israel with the Sabbath observance being one of the central areas of focus. Particularly striking is the Babylonian captivity which allowed the land to have the Sabbaths that it had missed.

The Messiah

Yahshuah, the Messiah, is our best example in everything as He was sinless. His teachings and His actions show that He kept the Sabbath and upheld its sanctity. He regularly went to the Synagogue or visited with people in their homes on the Sabbath. He taught that it was to be a blessing and a benefit to mankind. Contrary to the many burdensome rules of the Pharisees, He showed that healing and mercy are not against the law. He also confirmed that the Sabbath will be observed perpetually when teaching about His second coming.

The Apostles

The Apostles are shown to also continue keeping the Sabbath as a seventh day rest. They also regularly attended and taught at the Synagogues on the seventh day.

Rabbinical Judaism

After the destruction of the Temple in 70 AD, the focus of worship moved from the Temple to the local synagogue. At this time, there was a transfer of power to the Pharisees leading to the rise of Rabbinical Judaism with all of its laws and regulations concerning the Sabbath day. These man-made regulations included many activities including the evening service of lighting candles, the ritual blessings surrounding the reading of Scripture in the day, and the closing of the Sabbath day.

Christianity

Although the exact events of the first few centuries AD are difficult to follow, by the fourth century AD Christianity had developed into a recognizable form. In regards to the Sabbath, the seventh day rest had been dropped in favor of observing a rest on the first day of the week. The most common explanation of this transfer being to commemorate the resurrection of the Messiah.

Sabbath within the Covenant Relationship

Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. {9} Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: {10} But the seventh day is the Sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: {11} For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it.
Exodus 20:8-11

The Relationship

The Almighty desires a special relationship with mankind and the desire of our life should be that close relationship. Throughout history, multiple covenants have been made with individuals, groups of people, nations, and all of mankind. As with any relationship, to grow closer the individuals or groups involved must spend time together and build up a trust in each other. Often, there must be a set of rules that govern how the relationship will function. This is especially true when one side is to be honored above the other as the Almighty is honored above mankind.

The Covenant

The covenant is basically a spiritual contract with physical ramifications including blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience. Of special interest for this relationship is how an impure person can approach the Almighty who is pure. He has arranged how it can be done through the covenant laws and the sacrifices. So important in this covenant is the Sabbath that it was made into one of the 10 commandments. G1

The Sabbath Commandment

This is no less true regarding the seventh day as the day of rest. Elohim's relationship with mankind comes in the form of a covenant. The Almighty used the Sabbath as a remembrance of the creation, as a sign of His people, and as a test of His people which carried with it a judgment. It is clearly stated that the Sabbath was given to the people of Israel through all generations as a sign that He is setting His people apart. That it shall be considered set-apart because it is set-apart to YHVH. It is perpetual, to all generations, and forever. He gave Israel the Sabbaths so they would know it is He who sanctifies them.

Clothed in Righteousness

One form of covenant is the exchange of garments which is exemplified by Jonathon and David. We read that we shall be clothed in righteousness which in turn means we will look like and act like our Savior. He came in bodily form as a man. One of the things that we can 'wear' is the seventh day rest so that we more resemble our Creator.

The Sabbath Observance

The Sabbath is to be called a delight and not a burden. Yet for many the burden of sitting for hours on a hard bench, with ritualistic processions, and being preached at is what the Sabbath day means. Rather than this, the Sabbath is to b a joyful time of worship, thanksgiving, praise, and sharing testimony. It is a time of focusing on Elohim and resting from our labors. It is to be a time of tranquility. Our relationship with the Almighty should be free of agitation or disturbance. In relation to other believers, it is a time for sharing and encouragment.

Judgment regarding the Sabbath

And them that had escaped from the sword carried he away to Babylon; where they were servants to him and his sons until the reign of the kingdom of Persia: {21} To fulfil the word of the LORD by the mouth of Jeremiah, until the land had enjoyed her Sabbaths: for as long as she lay desolate she kept Sabbath, to fulfil threescore and ten years.
2 Chronicles 36:20-21

Regarding Salvation

Some individuals or groups try to make the keeping of the Sabbath a salvation issue. To be clear on this issue, one need simply state that keeping the Sabbath does not atone for sin. Only the sacrificial death of the Messiah and acceptance of Him as Savior brings atonement for sin. Instead, in its proper place, obeying the commandments of Elohim will bring blessing and peace in life. The observance of the Sabbath does not make a person part of His people but rather becomes a mark of those who are already His people. We cannot come to purity on our own, but there is a point where we must make the effort to do what is known to be good and minimize what is known to be wrong. Scripture, not mans traditions, should help us understand what is good and righteous in the eyes of the Almighty.

Separation from the Almighty

The importance of the Almighty's commandments are shown in the rewards that are promised to those who keep them and the punishments promised to those who do not keep them. This occurs on either a personal or national level. Yet there is great room for compassion for His people in times of judgment. For example, there are many sacrifices in the Sinai covenant for accidental or unintentional sin which allow a person to stay in close relationship with the One Most High. Yet presumptuous or intentional sin does not have a sacrifice but rather often involves the penalty of death or separation from His people.

Judgment on an Individual

One example of individual judgment is found in Numbers chapter 15. It occurs early in the Sabbath instructions during the time of the giving of Manna. Elohim has finished instructing the people to not go out gathering on the seventh day, a man is found collecting sticks, and death is the penalty. Yet even after this sad episode, the Almighty does something to help prevent it from occurring again by instructing the people to wear a blue thread on the borders of their garments as a remainder of His commandments.

Judgment on a Nation

On a national level, the law states that if the people will not obey the commandments, then they will be removed from the promised land and scattered among the nations. It may not come to pass for several hundred years, but ultimately the people of Israel are found guilty of profaning the Sabbath and not giving the land its rest. This is stated as one of the main reasons for the Babylonian captivity and directly attributes to the 70 years of captivity spent there. P11

The Messiah and the Sabbath

But he passing through the midst of them went his way, {31} And came down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and taught them on the Sabbath days. {32} And they were astonished at his doctrine: for his word was with power.
Luke 4:30-32

Messiah our Example

The Messiah was perfect and righteous in every way and serves as our example for both thought and action. In regards to the Sabbath, His example shows clearly some of the things that are and are not allowed. Messiah regularly attended synagogue on the Sabbath. He also regularly did good deeds like healing on the Sabbath which is against Pharisaic tradition but not against Scripture. The Messiah regularly visited with others on the Sabbath. The disciples were His students and followed what they were taught. After the resurrection, the disciples went out and continued the practice of attending fellowship on the seventh day of the week. P10

Legalism of the Pharisees

The traditions that the Pharisees added to the Sabbath were numerous and acted more as making the Sabbath a burden than making the Sabbath a delight. When the Messiah came and did things differently on the Sabbath from what they accepted in their rules, many were upset and started seeking how to kill Him (Mar 3:6) which is the first of the recorded plottings to kill Him. Others realized that He was performing great acts of righteousness and healing and wondered how this couuld be possible.

The Sabbath in Prophecy

For as the new heavens and the new earth, which I will make, shall remain before me, saith the LORD, so shall your seed and your name remain. {23} And it shall come to pass, that from one new moon to another, and from one Sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before me, saith the LORD.
Isaiah 66:22-23

Future Temple

In the books of the prophets, we continue to see the seventh day of rest referenced as a time of worship and convocation. This includes the sacrificial offerings in the future temple as well as in the new heavens and earth.

Millennial Kingdom

The seven days of creation fit as a type to a 7000 year calendar in which the timeline of Scripture fits. In this pattern, the 1000 years from 6000 to 7000 would fulfill the Millenial Kingdom of the Messiah during which time Satan will be bound. During this time, the kingdoms of the world will be expected to keep the commandments and laws including the Sabbath. J1

Evil regarding the Sabbath

For the king had sent letters by messengers unto Jerusalem and the cities of Juda that they should follow the strange laws of the land, {45} And forbid burnt offerings, and sacrifice, and drink offerings, in the temple; and that they should profane the Sabbaths and festival days: {46} And pollute the sanctuary and holy people: ... {49} To the end they might forget the law, and change all the ordinances.
1 Maccabees 1:44-46, 49

Attacking the Sabbath

From the beginning of the rebellion, Satan has tried to imitate or steal away from the Almighty. Continuing in this approach, there are attempts by both believers and non-believers to remove the Sabbath and even further to discredit the Almighty's claim as Creator. Much of this is intentional by non-believers and unintentional by believers. This has been true throughout history and continues this day.

Destroying the Sabbath

During the time of the Queen Esther, a plot was made to destroy the Jewish people. Similarly, the world wants to destroy the concept of the Creator and all of the obligations that go with it. Attempts have been made to change the calendar system so that the seventh day would be lost. The field of science has also been used to try and create a history that is devoid of Elohim and His commandments. Yet there have always been world leaders and nations that recognize the value of the Sabbath. The greatest threat of destruction comes from the scientific theory of Evolution and the it's concepts of uniformitarianism, naturalistic origins, and ages running into billions of years which all leave no room for the Creator.
He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. {7} Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.
Mark 7:6-7

Changing the Sabbath

During the time of the Antiochus and the Maccabees, the threat was not destruction but rather assimilation. King Antiochus tried to make the Jewish people change and leave behind the laws that they followed for that of another culture and of using false ways of worship. This same form of thinking has continued in recent millennia as those who want to worship the Almighty mixed philosophy with theology and made changes to the instructions of worship given from the Almighty through His word.

Battle for Purity

Believers are in a battle for purity and must ward off both destruction and assimilation. We must ask if our faith is in the Almighty or in the systems of man. Faith must be held in His word and its accuracy, His promises, and His ability to care for His people or the battle is already lost.

One Day or Long Age Debate

Regarding Scripture

Within Scripture, the topic of creation is always referred to as happening in a literal seven day period. Any theory that suggests it was a longer period of time has to be based on assumptions, philosophy, or a mixing of evolutionary theory. These produce internal inconsistencies with the creation account. For example, in Genesis 1 how would the plants created on day 3 survive for thousands or millions of years without the sun light created on day 4 and another thousands or millions of years without the insects created on day 5 for pollination? In Exodus 20:8-11 it talks of the Sabbath day rest in regards to creation speaking of six days of work and one day of rest. If the days are interpreted as long ages would it mean, for instance, that man must work 6,000 years and then rest for 1000 years?

Regarding Theology

One of the prime understandings of Scripture is that when Elohim created mankind there was a special relationship between them. When Adam and Eve were disobedient, this relationship changed and death came into the world (Gen 2:15-17). This leads to the need of having a Savior who can bring people back into that special relationship and the offer of eternal life (Rom 5:17-19). If any type of evolutionary timescale is used (gap theory, day age theory, theistic evolution theory, etc.) then for thousands or millions of years the ancestors of Adam and Eve would have been fighting and killing each other. This would negate the effects of the first sin as death would already have existed in the world and a judgment of death for disobedience would be meaningless. Instead of mankind bringing death into the world as stated in Scripture, evolution suggests that death brought man into the world through competition and natural selection.

Regarding Science

The scientific evidence for a young earth does not allow for an extended period of time. Examples would include the rotational speed of the earth, concentration of elements in ocean, existence of short term comets, decay of the earth's magnetic field, etc. Such data show a very short time period of existence which is measured in the thousands and not millions of years. The Genesis account states that all things were created in a seven day period fully functional and complete. Evolution requires millions of years for life to evolve from molecules to complex organisms and billions of years for a naturalist origin of the universe. Combining these two models of life together seems almost impossible. Yet some have tried.

The Gap Theory

The Gap Theory states that there was a large period of time between Genesis 1:1 and Genesis 1:2. This period of time can be interpreted as being millions or billions of years. One specific sub-theory that often arises with this concept is that of a people or creation that existed before Adam and Eve. That world was destroyed and then in Genesis 1:2 the world was being re-created. Another specific sub-theory often associate with this concept concerns the rebellion by Lucifer and his angels. The basic ideas is that this rebellion occurred during the time between Genesis 1:1 and Genesis 1:2 and may have led to the destruction of that world.

All is Good on the Seventh Day

The idea of a pre-adamite civilization and the angelic wars cause difficulties with the concepts of creation, mankind's special relationship with Elohim, and of salvation. At the end of the seven day creation period, Scripture states that everything was 'good'. At this time death did not exist. At this time, even Lucifer would not yet have rebelled since everything being good must include him as well. A previous civilization and wars would include death and things that would, simply, be not good.
But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.
2 Pet 3:8 (KJV)

Theistic Evolution and the Day Age Theory

Theistic Evolution is an attempt to combine or find compromise between the Creation account found in Genesis with the theory of evolution. The general idea is that God used the methods and means of evolution, such as competition and natural, as the way of creating mankind. The Day Age model is a specific version of the Theistic Evolution idea. The Day Age model states that each of the seven days of creation were long periods of time instead of a literal 24 hour day. These long periods of time are often made to be in the thousands or sometimes millions of years based on 2 Peter 3:8. The context of this passage has Peter talking about the scoffers / unbelievers who deny the creation, the flood and the coming of the Messiah. The reasoning used is that since the Messiah has not yet come, he will never come. However, this is faulty logic. Applying this idea of 1000 years is equal to a day to the timing of creation is not justified.

Seventh Day or First Day Sabbath

The Christian Sabbath

The Christian religion believes that the Sabbath has been changed to the first day of the week. Several reasons have been made to explain how and why this transfer was made. Some of the more common reasons are given below along with why this does not line up with Scripture. Ultimately, each one boils down to the fact that Elohim sanctified the seventh day rest and man decided to change it to the first day. K2

The Sabbath Day is Chosen

(Gen 2:2-3) And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made. {3} And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.
Gen 2:2-3 KJV

Elohim Sanctifies the Sabbath

In the book of Genesis, we read that Elohim blessed and sanctified the seventh day Sabbath. Over one hundred times theme is repeated and applied not just once, but to all generations and forever. It is observed under the Old Covenant, it is observed by the Messiah, and it will be observed in the future. There is no place in Scripture that states the Sabbath is to change.

Authority of the Church

Almost 2000 years ago, the Bishops declared for themselves the authority to decide which commandments people are to obey in worshipping the Almighty and what observances to follow in daily life. One of the foremost of these changes was the keeping of the Sunday Sabbath. However, this is not the Earthly Temple and the Aaronic priesthood sanctified by the Almighty nor is it the Heavenly Temple with the Messiah as High Priest. Mankind has not been given greater authority in setting the covenant commands than Elohim. Q1

The Covenant Relationship

Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah: ... {33} But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people. {34} And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the LORD: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the LORD: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.
(Jer 31:31,33-34)

Spiritual Israel

The Christian religion claims the day of Pentecost and the giving of the Spirit as the time of its birth. Often, this is claimed to be the fulfillment of the New Covenant prophecy in Jeremiah 31:31. With this claim comes the idea that the Nation of Israel and the Jewish people have been forsaken and are replaced by a new group. The requirements of the New Covenant found in Jeremiah 31:31-34 have not been fulfilled. Further, the Almighty's people is the Nation of Israel which is not to be replaced but instead is to have people grafted into it. The concepts of replacement theology and a fulfilled New Covenant are dangerous, false, and not a basis for changing the laws of the Almighty.

Dispensationalism

The Christian religion views its relationship with the Almighty through the concept of dispensationalism. A dispensation is when an authority temporarily releases or exempts those under it from an obligation or rule. Depending on the denomination involved there can be one or many dispensations through history. However, there is one dispensation that the Christian religion recognizes as a whole. This dispensation is the release from the commandments and laws of the Sinai Covenant. However, the dispensational idea has several flaws with it. The biggest problem is that it suggests the Almighty is not the same yesterday, today, and forever but rather changes over time. There are some commands that are given and called 'eternal decrees'. Yet within the dispensational concept, these decrees are no longer kept. Furthermore, some dispensational theories change how salvation is achieved in different time periods through history.

Fulfilling the Law

Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. {18} For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.
(Mat 5:17-18)

Fulfilling the Law

Perhaps the biggest reason used to allow changes to the Commandments of Elohim is the Christian interpretation of Matthew 5:17. The standard interpretation is that the Messiah put an end to the Old Covenant law because He fulfilled its purpose and it is no longer necessary. However, this makes the serious error of taking a single verse out of context. The very next verse, Matthew 5:18, shows that the law will continue until Heaven and Earth pass away. Also, this interpretation uses the word 'fulfill' to mean that things have been completed. In the Greek language, the connotation of the word is not finished, but rather means to give a proper interpretation or to bring to the fullest understanding. It also is the aorist active tense which does not show completion but rather is an ongoing action (past, present, and future).

First Day of the Week

And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.
Acts 20:7

'First Day' does not Exist

In most English translations, the phrase 'first day of the week' is used eight times. However, this phrase is not found in the Greek. Instead it is translated from μια σαββάτων meaning 'one of the Sabbaths' or from πρωτη σαββάτων meaning 'first of the Sabbaths'. Six of these passages are in reference to the resurrection at the garden tomb and do not effect this debate.

Paul's Preaching

We read in Acts chapter 20 of Paul visiting the people of Troas for a few days. In the English it reads they gathered together on 'the first day of the week'. Yet in the Greek it says they met on 'one of the Sabbaths'. Contrary to popular belief, this passage does not show any transfer of gathering together from the seventh day to the first day of the week.
Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.
1 Cor 16:2

Gathering Collections

Another passage often cited to support a first day worship is found in 1 Corinthians chapter 2. In English translations it is often made to read that they were to gather collections at a gathering on the first day of the week. In the Greek it says κατα μιαν σαββάτων which should be translated 'after one of the Sabbaths'. Which still refers there whole situation to the Sabbath as the measure of time.
Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.
John 20:19

Assembled in Fear

One other passage that is sometimes used to point to a first day gathering is found in John chapter 20 when the Messiah first appeared to the disciples. This passage again shows that in the Greek they were gathered on 'one of the Sabbaths' and not on the first day of the week.


Lord's Day of the Resurrection

I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. {10} I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet,
Rev 1:9-10

Resurrection Day

Theologically speaking, the change itself is said to be made for the reason that sunday is the 'Lord's Day of Resurrection' as it officially became designated by Sylvester, Bishop of Rome, in 1624 AD. Again, there are problems with this concept. First, the Messiah mentioned His death and resurrection many times and never mentioned commemorating it or changing the Sabbath because of it. Second, the Almighty has already commemorated the Resurrection in the wave sheaf offering during the spring festival of Unleavened Bread.

Day of the Lord

The only time in the Bible where the phrase 'Lord's Day' is used occurs in Revelation chapter one. This is commonly held by Christians to refer to Sunday. Yet the context of the passage and the entire book of Revelation is upon the return of the Messiah and the related events to that occurrence. In the Old Testament, those events are talked numerous times by the phrase 'the Day of the Lord'. This is most likely what is meant by 'Lord's Day' rather than a specific day of the week.

Do Not go Out on Sabbath

See, for that the LORD hath given you the Sabbath, therefore he giveth you on the sixth day the bread of two days; abide ye every man in his place, let no man go out of his place on the seventh day. {30} So the people rested on the seventh day.
(Ex 16:29-30)

Staying in your Place

Some have tried to use the verse in Exodus 16:29 to declare that no one ever really keeps the Sabbath as a day of rest up to and including the Messiah. The focus of this attempt is to change the word 'place' into a 'house'. Thereby making a doctrine that a person cannot leave their house on the Sabbath. Simply put, this is a bad translation and has no serious basis. The word for house in Hebrew is בַּיִת , or beit, and literally refers to a house as a dwelling place. The word for place in Hebrew is מָקוֹם [maqom] and can refer to either a specified or unspecified place or location such as 'the place of Schechem'. If we were to apply the interpretation of 'house' in other passages where the Hebrew 'maqom' is written, then in Genesis 1:9 all the waters of Heaven must be gathered in one house, in Gen 18:24 Elohim cannot destroy Sodom for the 50 righteous people in one house, and in Exodus 3:5 while Moses was before the burning bush had to remove his sandals because the house he is standing on is set-apart.

An Imperfect Messiah?

The accusation that the Messiah did not obey this law has deeper consequences in regards to theology and salvation as well. The Messiah had to be perfect to be a suitable substitute in the sacrifice made for our salvation and redemption. If He were to break any of the laws or commandments, then He would not be perfect and therefore could not take our place on the cross. As we can read that the Messiah did indeed go out on Sabbath, especially for fellowship, then we can conclude that not leaving a house on the Sabbath is not the correct interpretation of this passage.

A Sabbath Days Journey

The question can be asked as to how far one can actually travel on the Sabbath and not break the commandment. The above definition of place [maqom] most generally fits an encampment or small town. I am not advocating the Rabbinical definition, but for lack of any other specific definition of this distance we can note that they allow a distance of 2000 feet which is about two fifths of a mile. Perhaps the longest measurable distance described of the Messiah traveling on the Sabbath is going from Jerusalem to the Mount of Olives to pray. This distance certainly falls under the 2000 feet allowed in Rabbinical Judaism.

Places to Go on Sabbath

The commands for the Sabbath include both rest and convocation. An example of the appropriate kinds of travel can be found in the actions of the Messiah. We clearly see that He would meet in fellowship at the synagogue, visit in peoples homes, or go somewhere private to pray. Therefore, it should follow that these activities do not break the Sabbath commandment.

Summary

If thou turn away thy foot from the Sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the Sabbath a delight, the holy of the LORD, honourable; and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words: {14} Then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.
Isaiah 58:13-14

The Creator

In the beginning, Elohim created the heavens, the earth, mankind, and the seventh day rest. The sabbath observance becomes an important part of Scripture as it appears over 100 times and reminds believers of His being the Creator, the covenant commandment for mankind, and as a sign of His people.

The Creation

The seventh day was blessed and sanctified by Elohim. Animals, mankind, and even the land all need this time of rest for health and benefit. Blessing also flows from observing the Sabbath and the effect felt in life arrives in the form of peace.

Relationship with Mankind

Within the covenant relationship the Almighty has with His people, the Sabbath observance is a sign of His people. When it was not kept by Israel, they were removed from the land as a judgment upon them. The Messiah observed the Sabbath and prophecy teaches it will be observed in the future.

The Problems

The forces of evil do not want to acknowledge the Sabbath or the Creator and try to find ways to either destroy the Sabbath or change it into something else.

Todd Elder is a believer in the Messiah who wants to help people understand Scripture and know the message of Salvation. For more information from the Covenant Relationship series, please visit my website http://www.exploringsalvation.info and look under 'Covenant'.
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