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 rhythm of work and rest that God ordained for His people. The Hebrew word for "work" is "melachah," which refers to occupational or creative work. Historically, this command reflects the creation narrative in Genesis, where God worked for six days and rested on the seventh. It underscores the value of diligent labor while also setting boundaries to prevent work from becoming an idol.

but the seventh day
The "seventh day" is significant as it is set apart from the other days of the week. In Hebrew, the word for "seventh" is "shevi'i," which is closely related to "shabbat," meaning rest. This day is not just another day but is divinely ordained as a time of cessation from labor, reflecting God's own rest after creation.

shall be your holy day
The term "holy" in Hebrew is "qodesh," meaning set apart or sacred. This indicates that the Sabbath is not merely a day off but a day dedicated to the Lord. It is a time for spiritual renewal and worship, reminding the Israelites of their covenant relationship with God.

a Sabbath of complete rest
The word "Sabbath" comes from the Hebrew "shabbat," meaning to cease or desist. "Complete rest" emphasizes the total cessation of work, allowing for physical, mental, and spiritual rejuvenation. This rest is not just for the individual but for the entire community, promoting equality and compassion.

to the LORD
This phrase highlights the purpose of the Sabbath as being dedicated to God. It is a day to focus on the divine, to worship, and to remember God's provision and sovereignty. The Sabbath serves as a sign of the covenant between God and His people, as seen in Exodus 31:13.

Whoever does any work on that day
This part of the verse underscores the seriousness of the Sabbath command. The prohibition against work is absolute, reflecting the importance of obedience to God's law. It serves as a reminder that God's commands are not to be taken lightly.

must be put to death
The severity of this penalty reflects the holiness of the Sabbath and the seriousness of violating God's commands. In the ancient Near Eastern context, this underscores the communal responsibility to uphold God's law. While the New Testament does not prescribe such penalties, the principle of honoring God's ordained times remains significant for believers today.

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.