Heaven’s Vision. Earth’s Mission. One Standard.

J. Hector Garcia

SABBATHKEEPING

Isaiah 58:13 “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.” 

ABSTRACT

This article delves into the profound significance of proper Sabbath observance, highlighting its role as a divine sign of creation, redemption, and sanctification. Drawing from Scripture, it examines the call for reform in honoring the Sabbath, the necessity of preparation and reverence, the balance between acts of mercy and sacred rest, especially in service-oriented fields, and the spiritual renewal it brings to the community. Through active exploration of these themes, the piece underscores how faithful Sabbath-keeping fosters a deeper connection with God and prepares us for eternal rest.

Proper Sabbath-keeping roots itself in a genuine experience of spiritual renewal and obedience to God’s commandments. The Sabbath stands not merely as a day of physical rest but as a sign of God’s power to transform and sanctify His people. Isaiah 58:12-13 calls for God’s people to be “restorers” of the breach caused by disobedience and to keep the Sabbath as a “delight,” turning away from their own pleasure and honoring God on His holy day. This concept of Sabbath-keeping finds further reinforcement in Ezekiel 20:20, which identifies the Sabbath as a sign between God and His people, symbolizing His sanctifying power in their lives, and Mark 2:27 affirms that the sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath, while Hebrews 4:9 declares that there remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God. Ellen G. White writes that “the Sabbath was hallowed at the creation. As ordained for man, it had its origin when ‘the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy.’ Job 38:7” (The Desire of Ages, p. 281, 1898). Sr. White also states that “the value of the Sabbath as a means of education is beyond estimate. Whatever of ours God claims from us, He returns again, enriched, transfigured, with His own glory” (Education, p. 250, 1903). Failing to observe the Sabbath properly—either in its letter or spirit—dishonors God and calls for reform in how it is kept (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, p. 353). Keeping the Sabbath according to biblical principles reflects both an inward transformation and an outward demonstration of loyalty to God’s kingdom, but what specific roles do we play as reformers in restoring its observance?

REFORMERS RESTORE SABBATH!

God’s people receive the call to act as “reformers” who restore the proper observance of the Sabbath, rooted in understanding it as a memorial of God’s creative and sanctifying power, repairing the breach caused by disobedience to this sacred commandment (Isaiah 58:12). This restoration demands recognition of the Sabbath’s foundational purpose in creation and redemption. Isaiah 58:12 outlines the duty to rebuild ancient ruins and repair breaches, aligning with the Sabbath’s role in mending spiritual disconnection, and Isaiah 56:2 blesses the man that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil, while Isaiah 56:6 notes that 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. Ellen G. White explains that “God is merciful. His requirements are reasonable, in accordance with the goodness and benevolence of His character. The object of the Sabbath was that all mankind might be benefited” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, p. 582, 1868). Sr. White further observes that “in order to keep the Sabbath holy, it is not necessary that we enclose ourselves in walls, shut away from the beautiful scenes of nature and from the free, invigorating air of heaven” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, p. 583, 1868). Restoring the Sabbath in this way honors its divine intent and strengthens our bond with the Creator, but how does weekly preparation enhance this ongoing transformation?

Throughout the week, we find encouragement to prepare our hearts and homes for the Sabbath, as this day facilitates an ongoing process of spiritual transformation and serves as a sign of our sanctification by God (Ezekiel 20:20). Preparation involves intentional steps to align daily life with sacred rest. Ezekiel 20:20 establishes the Sabbath as a sign of sanctification, emphasizing God’s active role in making us holy, and Leviticus 19:30 commands ye shall keep my sabbaths, and reverence my sanctuary: I am the Lord, while Ezekiel 22:26 warns against profaning the sabbath among other violations. Ellen G. White notes that “we should in no case allow burdens and business transactions to divert our minds upon the Sabbath of the Lord, which He has sanctified. We should not allow our minds to dwell upon things of a worldly character even” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, p. 583, 1868). Sr. White adds that “all who love God should do what they can to make the Sabbath a delight, holy and honorable. They cannot do this by seeking their own pleasure in sinful, forbidden amusements” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, p. 584, 1868). Embracing this preparation transforms the Sabbath into a source of renewal, but what boundaries ensure the distinction between secular and sacred?

The observance of the Sabbath requires a clear demarcation between secular and sacred activities, including refraining from work, cooking, or any form of secular labor, which reflects reverence and dedication to God’s commandment (Exodus 20:8-11). This demarcation preserves the day’s holiness. Exodus 20:8-11 mandates remembering the sabbath day to keep it holy, prohibiting labor, and Nehemiah 13:15 recounts confronting those treading wine presses on the sabbath, and bringing all manner of burden, and selling them on the sabbath, while Nehemiah 13:18 questions 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. Ellen G. White asserts that “the Sabbath should be made so interesting to our families that its weekly return will be hailed with joy” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, p. 585, 1868). Sr. White emphasizes that “parents, make the Sabbath a delight, that your children may look forward to it and have a welcome in their hearts for it” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, p. 585, 1868). Maintaining these boundaries upholds the Sabbath’s sanctity and draws us closer to God, but how does the Sabbath symbolize deeper rest and redemption?

SABBATH SIGN: REST AND REDEMPTION!

“He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” (Micah 6:8, KJV)

The Sabbath forms a critical part of God’s plan for His people, representing more than just a day of rest; it symbolizes restoration and obedience to His divine will. Isaiah 58:12 describes God’s people as “restorers,” tasked with rebuilding what was broken. The breach referenced in Isaiah 58:13 pertains to the neglect of Sabbath observance, leading to spiritual restlessness and disconnection from God. Jesus offers rest to those who are weary, as seen in Matthew 11:28-30, where He invites all to come to Him and find rest. This rest, however, comes with a condition: taking His yoke. Jeremiah 6:16 tells us that the ancient paths, which include the Sabbath instituted in Eden (Genesis 2:2-3), are the way to true rest, and Luke 4:16 describes how as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read, while Acts 13:42 notes that when the Jews were gone out of the synagogue, the Gentiles besought that these words might be preached to them the next sabbath. Ellen G. White observes that “the Sabbath is a pledge given by God to man—a sign of the relation existing between the Creator and His created beings” (Selected Messages Book 3, p. 256, 1980). Sr. White further explains that “by observing the true Sabbath Christians are ever to bear to the world faithful witness of their knowledge of the true and living God as distinguished from all false gods, for the Lord of the Sabbath is the Creator of the heavens and the earth, the One exalted above all other gods” (Selected Messages Book 3, p. 256, 1980). The Sabbath stands not just as a ritualistic observance but as a divine institution meant to restore humanity’s relationship with God and provide spiritual rest, but what additional layers does it reveal as a sign of authority and covenant?

The Sabbath also receives description as a sign in Ezekiel 20:20. It signifies God’s authority and His covenant with His people. In Deuteronomy 5:12-15, the Sabbath reminds of Israel’s rescue from Egyptian bondage. However, Egypt also holds spiritual significance beyond its historical context. In Revelation 11:8, Egypt receives symbolic use to represent sin and rebellion against God. The connection between Egypt and sin finds further reinforcement in passages such as Luke 23:33, where Jesus was crucified not in Egypt but in a place marked by sin and cruelty. Similarly, Sodom, mentioned in Genesis 18:20 and Ezekiel 16:49, gained notoriety for its wickedness. These two places—Sodom and Egypt—represent sin, and it was humanity’s sin that led to Christ’s crucifixion (1 Corinthians 15:3, Hebrews 6:4-6). The Sabbath, therefore, reminds not only of creation but also of redemption. It points to God’s power to create new hearts and renew our spirits, as expressed in Psalm 51:10, and Acts 17:2 recounts how Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures, while Acts 18:4 states that he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks. Ellen G. White writes that “no boisterous noise and contention should be allowed any day of the week; but on the Sabbath all should observe quietness. No loud-toned commands should be heard at any time; but on the Sabbath it is entirely out of place. This is God’s holy day, the day He has set apart to commemorate His creative works, a day He has sanctified and hallowed” (Manuscript 57, 1897). Sr. White adds that “we are in danger of doing our own pleasure on the Sabbath day” (Letter 258, 1907). The Sabbath serves as a sign of God’s ability to rescue us from spiritual Egypt, or sin, but does mere profession suffice for true observance?

A mere profession of faith or Sabbath observance without genuine commitment proves insufficient in God’s eyes. Jesus warns against empty religious practices in Matthew 5:20, stating that unless our righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, we will not enter the kingdom of heaven. Their form of righteousness, as described in Matthew 23:1-3, appeared outwardly obedient but lacked the love and sincerity that God desires. True Sabbathkeeping involves not just outward obedience but also an internal love for God’s commandments. In 2 Thessalonians 2:10-11, Paul emphasizes the importance of loving the truth, for without love, even outward obedience lacks meaning. James 2:10 reminds us that we must keep all of God’s law, not just parts of it, if we are to be truly obedient. An example of partial obedience appears in the story of Saul in 1 Samuel 15:13, where he obeys some of God’s commands but fails to follow through completely. As Samuel later rebukes Saul, “to obey is better than sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22-23), and Isaiah 66:23 foretells that from one sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before me, saith the Lord, while Ezekiel 44:24 instructs that in controversy they shall stand in judgment; and they shall judge it according to my judgments: and they shall keep my laws and my statutes in all mine assemblies; and they shall hallow my sabbaths. Ellen G. White states that “God would have all his gifts appreciated. All fragments, jots, and tittles are to be treasured carefully, and we are carefully to become acquainted with the necessities of others” (Selected Messages Book 3, p. 258, 1980). Sr. White further notes that “the Lord has placed barriers around his Sabbath, that it may not be regarded with the least carelessness or irreverence” (Manuscript 122, 1901). Incomplete obedience, even in Sabbathkeeping, falls short in God’s eyes, but what does full commitment to the commandment entail?

We must understand the full commandment and the heart behind it. Proper Sabbathkeeping requires more than just a cessation of work; it calls for a spiritual commitment that mirrors God’s original intent for His creation, and Numbers 15:32 describes finding a man that gathered sticks upon the sabbath day, while Numbers 15:35 commands that the man shall surely be put to death: all the congregation shall stone him with stones without the camp. Ellen G. White explains that “I see no question in this matter as to what we shall have on the Sabbath day. The food which we have provided on the preparation day can be placed on the table warm, especially in cold weather” (Letter 73, 1896). Sr. White adds that “in traveling, persons eat cold lunches for days together, and realize no inconvenience or harm. We want palatable, healthful food every day of the week; but upon the Sabbath, let your cook have her day of rest, in the place of cooking for a family” (Letter 73, 1896). Aligning with this intent honors God fully, but how does observance center on honoring the Fourth Commandment?

SACRED SABBATH DUTY!

“But I will sacrifice unto thee with the voice of thanksgiving; I will pay that that I have vowed. Salvation is of the Lord.” (Jonah 2:9, KJV)

Proper Sabbath keeping centers on honoring God, as outlined in the Fourth Commandment (Exodus 20:8-11). The Sabbath exists as a day of rest, consecrated to the Lord, and it requires careful observance. Ellen G. White emphasizes the importance of Sabbath observance in her writings, stating that many have dishonored God by failing to keep the Sabbath in spirit and practice (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, p. 353). This essay explores the significance of proper Sabbath keeping, the preparation required, and the ways in which individuals can truly honor the Sabbath, and Isaiah 56:4 declares for thus saith the Lord unto the eunuchs that keep my sabbaths, and choose the things that please me, and take hold of my covenant, while Leviticus 23:3 states 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. Sr. White reinforces this, cautioning that those who cook on the Sabbath transgress God’s law (Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. 1, pp. 225-226). Sr. White urges parents to make the Sabbath a time of family worship and instruction, teaching children that it is their privilege to serve God (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, p. 354). Honoring the Sabbath in these ways brings God’s blessing, but when does the Sabbath precisely begin and end?

The Sabbath begins at sundown on Friday and ends at sundown on Saturday, in accordance with the biblical creation account (Genesis 1:31; Leviticus 23:32). Sabbath observance involves more than simply ceasing from labor; it requires careful preparation throughout the week to ensure that all activities associated with work are completed before the holy day. For instance, all cooking must be done before the Sabbath begins, as seen in Exodus 16:23, where the Israelites were instructed to prepare their food in advance, and Nehemiah 13:19 commands that when the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark before the sabbath, I commanded that the gates should be shut, and charged that they should not be opened till after the sabbath, while Nehemiah 13:21 warns why lodge ye about the wall? if ye do so again, I will lay hands on you. From that time forth came they no more on the sabbath. Ellen G. White notes that the Sabbath should be on our minds throughout the week, and preparation begins in the home (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, p. 353-354). Sr. White advises that all differences between family members or church brethren should be resolved before the Sabbath begins, allowing for peaceful and undistracted worship (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, p. 356). This careful planning ensures that individuals can devote the Sabbath entirely to worship and reflection, free from distractions, but does preparation extend only to physical tasks?

Preparation for the Sabbath must extend beyond physical tasks; it also includes spiritual readiness. The home should be a place where children are taught to respect the Sabbath and participate in its preparation. This instruction not only ensures that the family is prepared to observe the Sabbath, but also fosters an environment where children learn to honor God, and Ezekiel 46:3 states likewise the people of the land shall worship at the door of this gate before the Lord in the sabbaths and in the new moons, while Amos 8:5 questions when will the new moon be gone, that we may sell corn? and the sabbath, that we may set forth wheat, making the ephah small, and the shekel great, and falsifying the balances by deceit? Ellen G. White writes that “the Sabbath is a sign of Christ’s power to make us holy” (The Desire of Ages, p. 288, 1898). Sr. White also states that “speak softly, walk softly. Let not a word of lightness or trifling come from your lips. This is God’s day. He has blessed the seventh day, as his Sabbath, to be sacredly observed” (Letter 73, 1896). Extending preparation spiritually enriches the experience, but what activities should we avoid during this time?

In addition to preparing physically and spiritually for the Sabbath, we receive the call to refrain from secular activities and focus entirely on sacred matters during this time. This includes avoiding business operations, traveling, or engaging in unnecessary conversation, as these actions detract from the sanctity of the Sabbath (Nehemiah 10:31; Jeremiah 17:21-22). By safeguarding the “edges” of the Sabbath, individuals can fully experience the spiritual refreshment intended for this holy day, and Isaiah 58:14 promises 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, while Ezekiel 46:1 declares thus saith the Lord God; The gate of the inner court that looketh toward the east shall be shut the six working days; but on the sabbath it shall be opened, and in the day of the new moon it shall be opened. Ellen G. White echoes this idea, stating that performing works of mercy is in harmony with Sabbath observance (The Desire of Ages, p. 207). Sr. White emphasizes that honoring the Sabbath is key to receiving God’s blessing and preparing for the eternal rest promised to the faithful (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, p. 356). Refraining from secular pursuits preserves the day’s holiness, but how does the principle include acts of mercy?

The principle of proper Sabbath observance also extends to acts of mercy and doing good. Jesus Himself demonstrated that it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath, as seen in Matthew 12:10-13, where He healed a man with a withered hand. The Sabbath exists not just as a time to rest from physical labor, but also as an opportunity to serve others and reflect God’s love through acts of kindness. This concept underscores the broader purpose of the Sabbath as a time not only for rest but for spiritual enrichment and service to others, and Luke 13:15 questions doth not each one of you on the sabbath loose his ox or his ass from the stall, and lead him away to watering, while John 5:17 affirms but Jesus answered them, My Father worketh hitherto, and I work. Ellen G. White cautions that medical workers, while permitted to perform acts of mercy, must be vigilant not to fall into the habit of doing non-essential tasks on the Sabbath, which can diminish the day’s sacredness (Medical Ministry, p. 50). Sr. White warns that this can lead to carelessness, where physicians and nurses may come to view non-essential work as necessary, thus undermining the Sabbath’s holy influence (Medical Ministry, p. 160). Extending to mercy broadens the Sabbath’s purpose, but what sacred duty does it impose overall?

Proper Sabbath keeping serves as a sacred duty that requires preparation, both physically and spiritually. It involves honoring the Sabbath by ceasing from secular work, engaging in worship, and reflecting on God’s goodness. Furthermore, the Sabbath provides an opportunity for us to engage in acts of mercy, following Christ’s example. As Sr. White emphasizes, honoring the Sabbath is key to receiving God’s blessing and preparing for the eternal rest promised to the faithful (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, p. 356). By observing the Sabbath in accordance with God’s law, we align ourselves with His will and prepare for the kingdom to come, but how do we balance this in areas like medical missionary work?

Moving beyond physical and spiritual rest, the Sabbath also encompasses the principle of doing good, which is lawful and necessary, as Christ demonstrated through His healing acts (Matthew 12:10-13).

BALANCING SABBATH MISSION!

“For the day of the Lord is near upon all the heathen: as thou hast done, it shall be done unto thee: thy reward shall return upon thine own head.” (Obadiah 1:15, KJV)

The issue of Sabbath observance in medical institutions requires a delicate balance between relieving human suffering and upholding the sanctity of God’s holy day. The example set by Jesus in healing on the Sabbath illustrates that performing acts of mercy is lawful and necessary (Matthew 12:10-13; Mark 3:1-5; Luke 6:6-10). However, this practice should not lead to the disregard of Sabbath principles, and John 7:23 questions if a man on the sabbath day receive circumcision, that the law of Moses should not be broken; are ye angry at me, because I have made a man every whit whole on the sabbath day, while John 9:14 states and it was the sabbath day when Jesus made the clay, and opened his eyes. Ellen G. White advises that unnecessary treatments and operations should be deferred to other days unless they are required for immediate relief of suffering (Medical Ministry, p. 214). Sr. White calls on those in positions of responsibility to teach and model respect for the Sabbath, ensuring that unnecessary work is avoided and that all staff can rest and attend religious services whenever possible (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 7, p. 106). Balancing mercy with sanctity preserves the day’s purpose, but what risks do professionals face?

The inherent risk for medical professionals involves losing the sanctity of the Sabbath due to the demands of their profession. While acts of mercy remain permissible, there exists a danger in overstepping the boundaries of necessity. This carelessness can extend beyond medical staff to the broader institution, becoming a negative influence on those observing their actions, and Luke 13:16 asks and ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the sabbath day, while Luke 14:3 questions is it lawful to heal on the sabbath day. Ellen G. White emphasizes that while acts of mercy are permitted, there is a danger in overstepping the boundaries of necessity (Medical Ministry, p. 160). Sr. White advises that medical workers must also protect their own need for spiritual renewal and rest. If they continually engage in unnecessary work on the Sabbath, they risk not only diminishing the Sabbath’s importance but also neglecting their own spiritual well-being (Medical Ministry, pp. 215-216). Avoiding these risks safeguards spiritual health, but how do professionals discern essentials?

Physicians and nurses must carefully discern between what is essential on the Sabbath and what can be postponed. This principle receives reinforcement with the notion that medical workers must also protect their own need for spiritual renewal and rest. If they continually engage in unnecessary work on the Sabbath, they risk not only diminishing the Sabbath’s importance but also neglecting their own spiritual well-being (Medical Ministry, pp. 215-216), and John 5:9 states and immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked: and on the same day was the sabbath, while John 5:10 notes the Jews therefore said unto him that was cured, It is the sabbath day: it is not lawful for thee to carry thy bed. Ellen G. White warns that continual neglect of Sabbath principles can lead to carelessness, where medical workers may overstep boundaries and treat unnecessary work as essential, thereby undermining the Sabbath’s intended purpose of spiritual renewal (Medical Ministry, p. 160). Sr. White asserts that failing to observe the Sabbath properly, especially by neglecting public worship, can harm the spiritual life of both the individual and those they influence (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, p. 539). Discerning properly maintains balance, but what example should leaders set?

The role of medical professionals extends beyond their duties of care to setting a proper example of Sabbath observance. Failing to observe the Sabbath properly, especially by neglecting public worship, can harm the spiritual life of both the individual and those they influence (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, p. 539). Now, the focus shifts from the practical observance of the Sabbath to the sealing of God’s people, a critical theme in Scripture that underlines the importance of faithful adherence to God’s commandments, particularly in the end times, and Luke 14:5 asks which of you shall have an ass or an ox fallen into a pit, and will not straightway pull him out on the sabbath day, while Matthew 24:20 instructs but pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath day. Ellen G. White states that “the house of God is desecrated and the Sabbath violated by Sabbath believers’ children. They run about the house, play, talk, and manifest their evil tempers in the very meetings where the saints have met together to glorify God and to worship Him in the beauty of holiness” (Selected Messages Book 3, p. 256, 1980). Sr. White adds that “above everything, take care of your children upon the Sabbath. Do not let them violate it, for you may just as well violate it yourself as to let your children do it” (Manuscript 3, 1854). Setting this example inspires faithfulness, but what essential balance concludes this exploration?

FINAL SABBATH THOUGHTS!

“Seek good, and not evil, that ye may live: and so the Lord, the God of hosts, shall be with you, as ye have spoken.” (Amos 5:14, KJV)

The balance between medical work and proper Sabbath observance proves essential for upholding the sanctity of God’s holy day. Ellen G. White asserts that while acts of mercy are permitted on the Sabbath, medical professionals must take care not to fall into the habit of performing non-essential tasks, which diminishes the spiritual significance of the day (Medical Ministry, p. 50). This principle grounds itself in Jesus’ own example, as He healed on the Sabbath while still maintaining its sacredness (Matthew 12:10-13), and Mark 2:28 affirms therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath, while Luke 13:10 states and he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. Sr. White advises that medical institutions, particularly those in positions of responsibility, must model proper Sabbath-keeping and ensure that staff are given opportunities to rest and worship (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 7, p. 106). Sr. White teaches that “parents can do much to exalt the Sabbath in their families and make it the most interesting day of the week. We should devote time to interesting our children” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, p. 584, 1868). Balancing acts of mercy with Sabbath observance stands critical not only for preserving the sanctity of the day but also for maintaining the spiritual well-being of both workers and patients. Faithful adherence to God’s commandments, especially in medical settings, reflects a deeper commitment to God’s will and prepares us for the eternal rest promised to the faithful.

“Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: 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: 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, KJV)

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REVIEW QUESTIONS

  1. What is the key principle that medical professionals must consider when balancing their duties with Sabbath observance?
  1. How does Jesus’ example of healing on the Sabbath support the concept of performing acts of mercy while maintaining the sanctity of the day?
  1. What are the potential risks mentioned by Ellen G. White if medical workers do not carefully discern between necessary and unnecessary tasks on the Sabbath?

SELF-REFLECTION

How can I, in my personal devotional life, delve deeper into the truths of proper Sabbath-keeping, allowing them to shape my character and priorities?

How can we adapt these themes of Sabbath observance to be understandable and relevant to diverse audiences, from seasoned church members to new seekers or those from different faith traditions, without compromising theological accuracy?

What are the most common misconceptions about Sabbath-keeping in my community, and how can I gently but effectively correct them using Scripture and the writings of Sr. White?

In what practical ways can our local congregations and individual members become more vibrant beacons of truth and hope, living out the reality of proper Sabbath observance and God’s blessing through it?