What does EGW write about...
Adventistische Schriften über: "What does Sabbath sanctification mean?"
Answer
Sabbath sanctification means honoring the seventh day as a holy sign of the relationship between God and His people and celebrating it as a memorial of creation and sanctification. It is a time when secular work, business thoughts, and trivial conversations cease, allowing one to devote oneself entirely to worship and spiritual renewal. True Sabbath sanctification is manifested in a heartfelt attitude of obedience, through which the believer aligns with God's character.
A Sign of Sanctification and Obedience
The Sabbath, given to the world as a sign of God as Creator, is also the sign for Him as the Holy One. The power that created all things is the same power that recreates the soul after His image. For those who sanctify the Sabbath, it is a sign of sanctification. True sanctification is harmony with God, oneness with Him in character. It is received through obedience to those principles that are the expression of His character. And the Sabbath is the sign of obedience.
Rest from Secular Activities and Thoughts
God gave humanity six days for work... Unnecessary work is to be strictly avoided. “Turn your foot away from the Sabbath so that you do not do what pleases you on My holy day; and call the Sabbath a delight... and honor Him by not following your own ways, nor seeking your own pleasure.” ... Whoever discusses business matters or makes plans on the Sabbath is regarded by God as if he were actually conducting business. To keep the Sabbath holy, we should not even allow our thoughts to linger on secular matters.
A Day for Spiritual Needs
It is not the physical but the spiritual needs of man that are the focus of the Sabbath command. It is intended as a day on which God is to be worshiped—a day of holy remembrance of Him and of reflection on His works. The day is to be kept holy. If it is not kept holy, it is not kept at all.
Preparation and Vigilance
When the Sabbath begins, we should guard ourselves, our actions, and our words so that we do not deprive God by claiming the time that strictly belongs to the Lord for ourselves. Anything that would be considered a violation of the holy Sabbath in the sight of Heaven should not remain unsaid or undone, only to be said or done on the Sabbath. God requires not only that we refrain from physical work on the Sabbath, but that the spirit be disciplined to dwell on holy matters.
A Memorial of the Creative Power
When the Sabbath is kept according to God's plan, as a monument of His creative power... the soul, which triumphs over the work of His hands, will rejoice in the Lord. Thus the Sabbath is the great fulcrum for the lever of faith, which lifts the soul to the heights of God's throne to enjoy fellowship with Him.
- Sabbath as a sign of sanctification
- Preparation for the Sabbath
- Spiritual significance of the fourth commandment
Original Sources (English)
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