Filter by Categories
The Fourth Commandment (Part Two): Christ's Attitude Toward the Sabbath
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughJesus Christ did not annul the Sabbath but magnified its importance, restoring it to its original God-given intent. He emphasized that the Sabbath was made for man, to equip us to come out of spiritual slavery and to help us remain free, as stated in Mark 2:27. Far from abrogating it, He liberalized it only in contrast to the Pharisees' perverted, bondage-producing approach, focusing on its purpose of blessing, deliverance, liberty, and redemption. His actions and teachings, such as healing on the Sabbath and defending His disciples' actions in Matthew 12:1-8, demonstrate that the Sabbath is a day for doing good, showing mercy, and engaging in loving service rather than adhering to rigid ritualistic rules. Through His ministry, He tied the Sabbath to concepts of liberation, as seen in His inaugural sermon quoting Isaiah 61:1-2, identifying His mission with setting people free from bondage. Jesus, as Lord of the Sabbath, exemplified its true purpose by prioritizing acts of salvation and compassion over legalistic observance, providing a foundation for judging the value of our own Sabbath activities.
The Commandments (Part Seven)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe work required on the Sabbath is to prepare for the Kingdom of God, fellowshipping with our brethren, serving where possible, and relieving burdens.
The Commandments (Part Six)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughGod gave the Sabbath to His people so they can know Him intimately. Idolatry, scattering, and captivity are the natural consequences of Sabbath-breaking.
The Fourth Commandment (Part 3)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughJesus magnified the Sabbath, giving principles by which to judge our activities. Each time Jesus taught about the Sabbath, He emphasized some form of redemption.
Sabbathkeeping (Part 4)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe need to develop righteous judgment about what constitutes a genuine Sabbath emergency and what may be a deceptive rationalization of our human nature.
The Fourth Commandment (Part 2)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Sabbath reminds us that God is Creator and that we were once in slavery to sin. The Sabbath is a time of blessing, deliverance, liberty, and redemption.
Sabbathkeeping (Part 1)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughHow and why a person keeps the Sabbath determines whether this test commandment is really a sign between God and His people or an act of futility.