Sabbath, Pt. 3

Apr 22

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.

Reflect on Last Week

Before we discuss this week’s teaching and take the conversation further, let’s take a few minutes to reflect on and share about any experiences or Sabbath experimentation from this past week.

Remember, this is about practice, not performance. We are each given loads of permission to be exactly where we are with this, not where we or anyone else thinks we should be.

Did you practice sabbath this last week? If yes, what did you do and what was it like? If no, but you wanted to, what obstacles did you face? If no, and you didn’t intend to, no worries! Tell us how you are processing the invitation to the sabbath practice,

Read this Sermon Recap

Sabbath Pt. 3: Sabbath and the Old Testament.

In the story of the Exodus, God hears the cries of those working endlessly under Pharaoh's oppressive rule, and God liberates those who are denied rest. The people of Israel are freed from slavery, but what will this new and more powerful ruler, YHWH, be like? In Exodus 19-20, the people meet God on Mount Sinai and are given the Ten Commands for covenant life. The fourth commandment sets YHWH apart among the gods of the ancient world: God invites His people to remember and rediscover their freedom through weekly Sabbath rest.

The Practice of Sabbath can act as a symbol of resistance to oppression, reminding us that our identity isn't defined by endless productivity. Sabbath is a great equalizer, ensuring rest for all, not just the privileged. As we rest, we remember the rest denied others, and we honor the holiness of life and creation. Just as God gives us rest, we extend Sabbath rest to those in our care, fostering a community where all can experience rest and delight in God.

Discuss these Questions

(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 stands out to you from Sunday’s teaching? What has been staying with you that you’d like to share?

In what ways do you feel pressured to prioritize productivity over rest in your life? How might embracing Sabbath challenge those pressures?

Consider the idea that Sabbath is a communal practice that extends rest and liberation to others under our care. How can we cultivate a Sabbath ethos in our families, workplaces, and broader community? What practical steps can we take to prioritize rest not only for ourselves but also for those around us?

Is there something you are being led or inspired to try this week when it comes to the practice of Sabbath? How can our small group support you in that?

Before we close and read the practice for the week, let’s take some time to pray for each other. (Leaders: you can take additional prayer requests and/or pray along the lines of what has been shared regarding sabbath practice.)

Practice for the Week

Reflect on God’s longing for His people Israel, hearing Him repeatedly say, “Let My people go,” or let my people rest. Explore what God might want to speak to you.

Perhaps try incorporating small moments of rest into your week. Take a nap, go out in nature, play a game, share a meal with others, or give yourself a special treat. Let it be a simple way to “keep company with Jesus.” Maybe you begin with 10 or 20 minutes one day, and as the week goes on add 10 minutes each day. Try for an hour by the end of the week. Make small incremental and intentional steps toward planning a full day of Sabbath rest.

Here are a few additional reflections and/or practices as you plan for and spend this time:

In this time of ceasing, pay attention to what the air of freedom feels like for you. Have you ever had an experience like this in a small or big way before? You may wish to journal what you are experiencing.

Where do you see the good news of the gospel written within your life? Where is there good news in your day, your relationships, work, community, etc?

Gratitude. Give thanks to God for you are fearfully and wonderfully made. Thank Him for the gift of the day before you. Notice how God is speaking to you as you offer gratitude. How might God be calling you to listen and respond?