Exodus 16:27

Yet on the seventh day some of the people went out to gather, but they did not find anything.

Study Bible

Yet on the seventh day
This phrase emphasizes the importance of the Sabbath, a day set apart by God for rest and worship. The Hebrew word for "seventh" is "שְׁבִיעִי" (shevi'i), which is derived from the root "שֶׁבַע" (sheva), meaning "seven." The number seven in the Bible often symbolizes completeness and divine perfection. The Sabbath is a covenant sign between God and Israel, reminding them of creation and their deliverance from Egypt. Historically, the observance of the Sabbath distinguished the Israelites from surrounding nations, serving as a testament to their unique relationship with God.

some of the people
This phrase indicates that not all, but a portion of the Israelites, disobeyed God's command. The Hebrew word for "people" is "עָם" (am), which can refer to a nation or community. This highlights the communal aspect of Israel's identity and the collective responsibility they bore in adhering to God's laws. The disobedience of "some" serves as a cautionary tale about the influence of individual actions on the community's spiritual health.

went out
The action of going out on the Sabbath to gather manna reflects a lack of trust and obedience. The Hebrew verb "יָצָא" (yatsa) means "to go out" or "to come forth." This act of going out symbolizes a departure from God's provision and a reliance on human effort. It serves as a reminder of the Israelites' struggle with faith and obedience, a recurring theme throughout their wilderness journey.

to gather
The act of gathering manna on the Sabbath was a direct violation of God's command. The Hebrew word "לִקְטוֹר" (liktor) means "to gather" or "to collect." This word is used throughout the manna narrative to describe the daily provision God provided. The attempt to gather on the Sabbath underscores the Israelites' failure to trust in God's sufficiency and provision, highlighting the human tendency to rely on self-effort rather than divine grace.

but they found none
This outcome demonstrates the futility of disobedience and the faithfulness of God's word. The Hebrew word for "found" is "מָצָא" (matsa), meaning "to find" or "to discover." The absence of manna on the Sabbath reinforces the lesson that God's commands are not arbitrary but are designed for the well-being of His people. It serves as a powerful reminder that true rest and provision come from trusting in God's timing and commands.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The people of God who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and were journeying through the wilderness to the Promised Land.

2. The Wilderness of Sin
The location where the Israelites were camped and where God provided manna from heaven.

3. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness.

4. The Sabbath
The seventh day of the week, which God commanded to be a day of rest and no work, as a sign of His covenant with Israel.

5. Manna
The miraculous bread from heaven provided by God to sustain the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' attempt to gather manna on the Sabbath highlights the importance of obeying God's instructions fully. Disobedience often stems from a lack of trust in God's provision.

Trust in God's Provision
The failure to find manna on the seventh day serves as a reminder that God provides for our needs and that we must trust Him rather than rely on our own efforts.

The Significance of the Sabbath
The Sabbath is a gift from God, intended for rest and reflection. It is a time to cease from labor and focus on spiritual renewal and worship.

Learning from Past Mistakes
The Israelites' actions serve as a cautionary tale. We should learn from their mistakes and strive to align our actions with God's will.

Spiritual Rest in Christ
The Sabbath rest points to the ultimate rest found in Jesus Christ. Believers are called to enter into this rest by faith, ceasing from their own works and trusting in His finished work.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the Israelites' attempt to gather manna on the Sabbath reveal about their understanding of God's commands and provision?

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

3. In what ways does the concept of Sabbath rest in the Old Testament point to the spiritual rest offered in Christ?

4. How can we ensure that we are not repeating the mistakes of the Israelites by failing to trust in God's provision?

5. What practical steps can we take to cultivate a heart of obedience and trust in God's commands in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:2-3
The institution of the Sabbath at creation, where God rested on the seventh day, setting a precedent for the Sabbath rest.

Exodus 20:8-11
The Ten Commandments, where the Sabbath is commanded as a day of rest, reflecting God's rest after creation.

Numbers 15:32-36
An account of a man who violated the Sabbath, illustrating the seriousness of keeping the Sabbath holy.

Hebrews 4:9-11
The New Testament discussion of the Sabbath rest as a symbol of the spiritual rest found in Christ.