Ezekiel 20:12

I also gave them My Sabbaths as a sign between us, so that they would know that I am the LORD who sanctifies them.

Study Bible

Also, I gave them
This phrase emphasizes the divine initiative and generosity of God. The Hebrew root for "gave" is "נָתַן" (natan), which conveys the idea of a gift or a grant. In the context of the Israelites, this highlights God's grace in providing them with something of immense spiritual value. The giving of the Sabbaths is not merely a command but a benevolent act from God, underscoring His desire for a relationship with His people.

My Sabbaths
The term "Sabbaths" refers to the weekly day of rest and worship instituted by God. The Hebrew word "שַׁבָּתוֹת" (shabbatot) is derived from "שָׁבַת" (shavat), meaning to cease or rest. The use of "My" signifies ownership and sanctity, indicating that the Sabbaths are not just any day but are set apart by God Himself. Historically, the Sabbath was a radical concept in the ancient world, providing rest and reflection, and it served as a constant reminder of God's creation and covenant.

as a sign between us
The word "sign" in Hebrew is "אוֹת" (ot), which can mean a mark, token, or symbol. In the ancient Near Eastern context, signs were often used to signify covenants or agreements. Here, the Sabbath serves as a perpetual sign of the covenant relationship between God and Israel. It is a visible and recurring reminder of their unique identity as God's chosen people and His faithfulness to them.

so that they would know
This phrase indicates purpose and intent. The Hebrew root "יָדַע" (yada) means to know, perceive, or understand. The knowledge here is not merely intellectual but relational and experiential. God desires that His people have a deep, personal understanding of His nature and His works. The observance of the Sabbath is meant to lead the Israelites into a deeper awareness of God's presence and His sanctifying power.

that I am the LORD
The name "LORD" is the English representation of the Tetragrammaton, "יהוה" (YHWH), the personal and covenantal name of God. This declaration is a reaffirmation of God's identity and authority. It serves as a reminder of His eternal nature, His sovereignty, and His commitment to His people. In the context of the Sabbath, it underscores that the day is not just about rest but about recognizing and honoring the Creator.

who sanctifies them
The Hebrew root for "sanctifies" is "קָדַשׁ" (qadash), meaning to set apart, consecrate, or make holy. This highlights the transformative power of God in the lives of His people. The Sabbath is not only a day of rest but a means through which God imparts holiness to His people. It is a time for spiritual renewal and alignment with God's purposes. The sanctification process is a testament to God's ongoing work in the lives of the Israelites, setting them apart for His glory and service.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel was called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were in a covenant relationship with Him. They were often reminded of their obligations to follow God's laws.

3. Sabbath
A day of rest instituted by God as a sign of the covenant between Him and the Israelites, symbolizing rest and sanctification.

4. Babylonian Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken captive to Babylon, a time of reflection and repentance for the nation.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His role as the sanctifier and the one who sets His people apart.

Teaching Points

The Significance of the Sabbath
The Sabbath is not just a day of rest but a sign of the covenant relationship between God and His people. It serves as a reminder of God's sanctifying work.

Sanctification by God
The verse emphasizes that it is God who sanctifies His people. Our efforts are secondary to His divine work in setting us apart for His purposes.

Covenant Relationship
The Sabbath is a tangible expression of the covenant, reminding believers of their unique relationship with God and their call to live distinctively.

Rest as a Spiritual Discipline
Observing a day of rest is a spiritual discipline that allows believers to focus on God, recharge spiritually, and remember their dependence on Him.

Christ as Our Sabbath Rest
In the New Testament, Jesus fulfills the Sabbath, offering believers rest from their works and inviting them into a relationship of grace and peace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of the Sabbath as a sign of the covenant deepen your understanding of your relationship with God?

2. In what ways can you incorporate a Sabbath rest into your weekly routine to focus on spiritual growth and sanctification?

3. How does understanding God as the one who sanctifies influence your approach to personal holiness and spiritual disciplines?

4. What parallels can you draw between the Israelites' observance of the Sabbath and the rest offered through faith in Christ?

5. How can the principles of Sabbath rest be applied in a modern context to enhance your spiritual life and relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 31:13
This verse also speaks of the Sabbath as a sign between God and the Israelites, emphasizing its role in sanctification.

Leviticus 20:8
Highlights the importance of keeping God's statutes and the role of God in sanctifying His people.

Hebrews 4:9-10
Discusses the concept of rest for the people of God, connecting the Sabbath rest to the spiritual rest found in Christ.

Mark 2:27-28
Jesus teaches about the purpose of the Sabbath, emphasizing that it was made for man's benefit and that He is Lord of the Sabbath.