Exodus 35:2

For six days work may be done, but the seventh day shall be your holy day, a Sabbath of complete rest to the LORD. Whoever does any work on that day must be put to death.

Study Bible

For six days work may be done
This phrase establishes the pattern of a six-day workweek, reflecting the creation narrative in Genesis 1, where God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh. This work-rest cycle is foundational to the rhythm of life for the Israelites and is a reflection of God's own work in creation. The six days of labor are a time for human activity and productivity, aligning with the cultural and economic practices of ancient agrarian societies.

but the seventh day shall be your holy day
The seventh day is set apart as holy, indicating its sanctity and special status. This concept of holiness is central to the identity of the Israelites as a people set apart for God. The Sabbath is a sign of the covenant between God and Israel (Exodus 31:16-17), and its observance is a testament to their relationship with Him. The holiness of the day is a reminder of God's holiness and His call for His people to be holy as well.

a Sabbath of complete rest to the LORD
The Sabbath is not merely a day of physical rest but a spiritual observance dedicated to the LORD. It is a time for reflection, worship, and renewal of the covenant relationship with God. The term "complete rest" emphasizes the cessation of all work, underscoring the importance of trusting in God's provision rather than human effort. This rest is a foretaste of the ultimate rest promised in the eschatological future (Hebrews 4:9-10).

Whoever does any work on that day must be put to death
This severe penalty underscores the seriousness with which God views the observance of the Sabbath. It reflects the covenantal nature of the commandment and the need for the community to uphold God's laws. The death penalty serves as a deterrent and highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands. This commandment is part of the broader legal and moral framework given to Israel, which includes both blessings for obedience and consequences for disobedience. The severity of the punishment also points to the ultimate consequence of sin, which is spiritual death, and foreshadows the need for a Savior who fulfills the law perfectly on behalf of humanity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who conveyed God's laws and instructions to the people. In this chapter, Moses is relaying God's command regarding the Sabbath.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and are now receiving the Law at Mount Sinai.

3. Sabbath
A day of rest instituted by God, observed on the seventh day of the week, signifying rest and holiness.

4. Mount Sinai
The place where God gave Moses the Ten Commandments and other laws, including the commandment to observe the Sabbath.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, who commands the observance of the Sabbath as a sign of His covenant with Israel.

Teaching Points

The Principle of Rest
God designed the Sabbath as a day of rest, reflecting His own rest after creation. This principle encourages us to find balance in our work and rest, trusting in God's provision.

Holiness and Worship
The Sabbath is not just a day off but a holy day dedicated to the LORD. It is a time for worship, reflection, and spiritual renewal.

Obedience to God's Commands
Observing the Sabbath was a serious command for the Israelites, with severe consequences for disobedience. This underscores the importance of obedience to God's instructions in our lives.

The Sabbath as a Covenant Sign
The Sabbath served as a sign of the covenant between God and Israel, reminding them of their unique relationship with Him. As Christians, we are called to live in a way that reflects our covenant relationship with God through Christ.

Rest in Christ
While the physical observance of the Sabbath is not mandated for Christians, the spiritual principle of rest is fulfilled in Christ. We are invited to enter into His rest, ceasing from our own works and trusting in His finished work on the cross.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command to observe the Sabbath in Exodus 35:2 reflect God's character and His intentions for humanity?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of Sabbath rest in our modern, fast-paced lives?

3. How does the concept of Sabbath rest in the Old Testament connect to the rest we find in Christ as described in the New Testament?

4. What are some practical ways we can make our day of rest a time of worship and spiritual renewal?

5. How can understanding the Sabbath as a covenant sign deepen our appreciation for our relationship with God through Jesus Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:2-3
The origin of the Sabbath is rooted in creation, where God rested on the seventh day, setting a precedent for the Sabbath rest.

Exodus 20:8-11
The Ten Commandments include the command to remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy, emphasizing its importance.

Mark 2:27-28
Jesus teaches that the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath, highlighting its purpose for rest and restoration.

Hebrews 4:9-10
The Sabbath rest is a foreshadowing of the ultimate rest believers find in Christ, pointing to spiritual rest.