Sabbath, Pt. 1 & 2
About the Series
In our fast-paced world, where busyness is often worn as a badge of honor, we are invited to return to a rhythm of rest through the practice of Sabbath. This series will explore Sabbath’s connection to God’s work of creation, its formative significance for God’s liberated people, and its embodiment and fulfillment in Jesus. Sabbath is an invitation to delight. But beyond a simple day off, this practice is a deliberate act of resistance and counter-formation, and can even be a work of justice. We want this series to be a conversation and safe space where together we can explore and experiment. Ultimately, we long to be a people who delight in God and who live in step with—at the pace of—the Holy Spirit.
Sermon recap
Part 1: An Invitation to Rest through the Practice of Sabbath
We are busy, living in a “culture of permanent availability.” Many are physically and emotionally exhausted, and busied away from connection with God and spiritual growth. Jesus says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest” (Matt 11:28). But how do we rest in God? We need a practice—tangible and practical discipline by which we can “keep company with Jesus.”
The Practice of Sabbath is a 24-hour period in which we stop, set down our work, and instead, rest in and delight in God and God’s gifts. Sabbath is not another thing to do or a legalistic religious obligation. It is not a way to earn favor from God. But it is also not simply an idea to think about—it is a practice.
Part 2: Sabbath and Creation
In Genesis 1-2, God creates. God separates, sets boundaries, and initiates rhythms—light and dark, day and night, seasons and times. God brings order out of disorder. All of this creates space for the world to be filled by God, brimming with life. Then God creates humanity, image-bearers of God blessed and filled to continue God’s cultivating work as his partners. But the creation of humanity was not the end. On the seventh day, God rested. God “sabbathed.”
God was not tired, he did not need to catch his breath. God, like a heavenly, cosmic king, sat down on his throne. God’s rest is an image of his rule and dominion. As humans, we can practice sabbath because we trust that while we rest, the restful God is reigning.
Practice for Tonight
(Leaders: Before going into the questions, you may want to give your group a minute or so of silence, reflecting on and listening to the Spirit around the question, “What is Jesus inviting you to notice tonight?”)
Tonight we are going to use this set of questions to guide our discussion. (You may want to pull up the guide on your phone to help you process and reflect.)
What has stood out to you from the first two teachings on sabbath? What thoughts, perspectives, or past experiences of Sabbath are you bringing into this series?
How does Sabbath point to or reflect God’s character and rule? How might this speak into how we practice sabbath?
When it comes to the practice of sabbath, where do you feel longing? Where do you feel resistance?
If you were to try something, what day or time would be feasible?
Is there a small but meaningful next step that might God be inviting you to explore? Experimenting with sabbath? Discussing more with your spouse, roommates, or family?
Practice For The Week
Spend some time this week during your prayer time with the Lord reflecting on His character, His love, and care for you. Offer Him any longings and/or resistances you are noticing in regards to Sabbath and the various ways of resting in God. Share a conversation with a spouse, friend, or as a family naming some of the things you are desiring to practice or explore as an invitation of Sabbath that God might be inviting you to try.
