Numbers 28:25

On the seventh day you shall hold a sacred assembly; you must not do any regular work.

Study Bible

On the seventh day
The seventh day here refers to the final day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, a significant festival in the Jewish calendar. This day is part of a week-long observance that begins with Passover, commemorating the Israelites' exodus from Egypt. The number seven often symbolizes completion and perfection in the Bible, reflecting God's creation week.

you shall hold a sacred assembly
A sacred assembly, or "holy convocation," is a gathering for worship and reflection. This assembly underscores the communal aspect of worship in ancient Israel, emphasizing unity and collective remembrance of God's deliverance. It is a time set apart for spiritual focus, aligning with the broader biblical theme of holiness and separation from the ordinary.

you must not do any regular work
The prohibition against regular work highlights the importance of rest and devotion to God. This command echoes the Sabbath principle, where rest is a form of worship and trust in God's provision. It serves as a reminder of the Israelites' dependence on God, contrasting their previous life of slavery in Egypt. This rest is a precursor to the ultimate rest found in Christ, as mentioned in Hebrews 4:9-10, where believers are invited to enter God's rest through faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the laws and instructions from God, including those in Numbers 28.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, to whom these instructions were given as part of their covenant relationship with Him.

3. Sabbath
The seventh day of the week, set apart as a day of rest and sacred assembly for the Israelites.

4. Tabernacle
The place where the Israelites gathered for worship and where the sacred assembly would take place.

5. Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites received these instructions as they journeyed from Egypt to the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Rest
God designed the Sabbath as a day of rest, reflecting His own rest after creation. This principle of rest is vital for physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Sacred Assembly
Gathering for worship is a key aspect of the Sabbath, emphasizing community and corporate worship. It is a time to focus on God and His Word.

Holiness and Obedience
Observing the Sabbath is an act of obedience and a sign of holiness. It sets God's people apart and reminds them of their covenant relationship with Him.

Spiritual Reflection
The Sabbath provides an opportunity for reflection on God's provision and faithfulness. It is a time to realign priorities and focus on spiritual growth.

Application in Modern Life
While the specific observance of the Sabbath may differ today, the principles of rest, worship, and reflection remain relevant. Christians are encouraged to find regular times for rest and spiritual renewal.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of Sabbath rest in Numbers 28:25 relate to the creation account in Genesis 2:2-3?

2. In what ways can we incorporate the principle of a "sacred assembly" into our weekly routines today?

3. How does observing a day of rest and worship impact your relationship with God and others?

4. What are some practical ways to ensure that rest and reflection are part of your weekly schedule?

5. How can the teachings on the Sabbath in Numbers 28:25 enhance our understanding of spiritual rest as described in Hebrews 4:9-10?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:8-11
This passage provides the foundation for the Sabbath commandment, emphasizing rest and holiness.

Leviticus 23:3
Reinforces the concept of the Sabbath as a day of rest and sacred assembly.

Hebrews 4:9-10
Discusses the spiritual rest that believers enter through faith in Christ, connecting the Sabbath rest to a broader theological theme.

Isaiah 58:13-14
Highlights the blessings associated with honoring the Sabbath and delighting in the Lord.