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When God set the foundations of the world in place, He made the choice to rest and established the seventh day as a “holy” day (Gen 2:2-3). The people of Israel were mandated to observe this day as a Sabbath unto God, spending their time in corporate worship, praise, singing, meditating on God’s word, enjoying His creation, and ceasing from productive labor. In the New Testament, Jesus’ followers began to take their Sabbath not on the seventh day of the week as previously done; instead, they met on the first day of the week (Sunday) to commemorate His resurrection. Today, we can (and should) participate in weekly spiritual rest as a way to practice our dependence upon and worship of God.

For Group Leaders

1. Begin in prayer. Welcome the Holy Spirit to the group and invite Him to lead, guide, and convict your group as you meet together.
2. Reflect on Sunday’s sermon as a group. What were some highlights? Was anything particularly helpful, convicting, or confusing?
3. Consider the following questions and pick a few to focus your discussion.

Examine the Word

• Read Deuteronomy 5:12-15.
• Read Psalm 95.
• Read Hebrews 4:1-11.

For Discussion

• How did the Sabbath look in the Old Testament?
• How did the Sabbath look in the New Testament (after Jesus’ resurrection)?
• In your formative years, what were Sundays like and did your family use them as a “Sabbath” time?
• Share what your Sundays look like today. What do you prioritize? How would you like to change the way you spend your time?
• “Sabbath” is less about a specific time and place and more about an attentiveness to God. What are some good ways to remove distractions and cultivate a mind/spirit that are attentive to God’s work?
• What provides spiritual rest for you? Why?
• Community is a large piece of what it means to experience Sabbath. How can you purposely connect with people of faith as part of your time of rest?

Practice

• Make it a priority to worship with other believers on Sunday. Include times of prayer, the reading & teaching of God’s word, the taking of communion, the sharing of praise & testimony, and the singing of songs.
• Keep yourself distraction-free, as much as possible. Set aside time where social media and entertainment are off-limits.
• “Feast” on God’s creation, whether it’s through being in the presence of loved ones, eating good food and drinks, or being out in nature. Celebrate the bounty that God has provided. Enjoy physical rest and physical activity, as you need.
• Remember that Sabbath is an active protest against our fleshly desire to provide for our own (material & financial) needs. Trust that even as you take a break God is in charge and will provide for your needs.

For Family Discussions

• Take some time to talk about the sermon together. What did you learn that was new? Were there any parts that were confusing?
• How can your family create Sunday rhythms of Sabbath together?
• Spend time in prayer, thanking Jesus for all of His provisions in your life and the gift of rest which He graciously gives us.