3.3 The Lord of the Sabbath        
Jesus and the True Meaning of the Sabbath

Read Mark 2:23-28. How does Jesus respond to the Pharisees’ accusation?

In Mark 2:23-28, we see the Pharisees accusing Jesus’ disciples of breaking the Sabbath by picking grain on the Sabbath. The Pharisees referred to Jewish tradition, which prohibited 39 types of work on the Sabbath, including harvesting, which encompassed picking grain.

Jesus’ Response to the Pharisees’ Accusation

1. Reference to David:

   • Jesus counters the Pharisees with a story from the Old Testament, where David and his men ate the consecrated bread when they were hungry (1 Samuel 21:1-6). This bread was meant only for the priests, yet it was given to David and his men because they were in need.

   • Jesus argues that if David and his men were permitted to eat the consecrated bread to satisfy their hunger, then his disciples are also justified in picking and eating grain when they are hungry. This highlights that human needs take precedence over ritualistic law observance.

2. The Sabbath is Made for Man:

   • Jesus further explains that the Sabbath was made for the benefit of people, not the other way around: “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.” This clarifies that the Sabbath law is meant to serve and help humanity, not to burden or oppress them.

   • This means that observing the Sabbath should be flexible to meet human needs and well-being. Jesus’ response shows that compassion and humanity should take precedence over rigid adherence to laws.

3. Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath:

   • Jesus concludes his response by declaring, “The Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.” With this statement, Jesus claims divine authority over the Sabbath laws. He presents himself as the one who understands and proclaims the deeper meaning and true purpose of the Sabbath.

   • This statement underscores that Jesus is not just a teacher or prophet but has the authority to interpret and apply the law.

Read Mark 3:1-6. How does this account illustrate Jesus’ statement that the Sabbath was made for man?

In Mark 3:1-6, we again encounter a conflict between Jesus and the religious leaders over Sabbath observance. This episode powerfully illustrates Jesus’ statement that the Sabbath was made for man and not the other way around.

The Action and the Conflict

1. The Situation:

   • Jesus is in the synagogue on the Sabbath, and a man with a shriveled hand is also present. The religious leaders are watching Jesus closely to see if he will heal on the Sabbath, hoping to accuse him.

2. Jesus’ Challenge:

   • Knowing their thoughts and intentions, Jesus confronts the religious leaders by asking, “Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?” The answer is obvious, but the religious leaders remain silent.

3. The Healing and Reaction:

   • Jesus heals the man with the shriveled hand, which angers the religious leaders so much that they immediately begin to plot how to kill Jesus. This irony reveals their blindness and hypocrisy: they accuse Jesus of breaking the Sabbath while they themselves plan his murder on the Sabbath.

Illustration of Jesus’ Statement

1. Doing Good and Saving Life:

   • Jesus’ question highlights that the true purpose of the Sabbath is to do good and save life. The Sabbath should be a day where human welfare and compassion are prioritized. Jesus makes it clear that human needs and acts of love should take precedence over strict Sabbath observance.

2. Hypocrisy of the Religious Leaders:

   • The religious leaders’ behavior shows that they have misunderstood the spirit of the Sabbath. They are more interested in catching and punishing Jesus than in promoting good and saving life. Their hypocrisy reveals their misinterpretation of the Sabbath laws and their moral failure.

3. The Sabbath as a Gift:

   • Jesus emphasizes that the Sabbath was made for man—as a gift from God to provide rest, renewal, and opportunities for good deeds. It is not meant to be a burden but a blessing.

What principles of Sabbath observance can you draw from these accounts and the challenges we face today in observing the Sabbath?

The accounts in Mark 2:23-28 and Mark 3:1-6 offer valuable insights into the meaning and understanding of the Sabbath. Here are some principles that can be derived from these stories and their application to modern challenges of Sabbath observance:

1. Humanity and Mercy over Ritualism:

   • Principle: The Sabbath should be a day where humanity and mercy are paramount. Human needs and welfare are more important than strict rule-following.

   • Modern Application: Instead of focusing solely on the external observance of Sabbath rules, we should pay attention to how we can serve and help others on this day. This could mean spending time with family and friends, doing volunteer work, or helping someone in need.

2. Rest and Renewal:

   • Principle: The Sabbath is made for man—as a day of rest and renewal. It should provide a break from daily routines to refresh body and spirit.

   • Modern Application: Use the Sabbath or your rest day consciously to relax and regenerate. This can mean engaging in activities that bring joy and help you relax, such as walking in nature, reading, or meditating.

3. Flexibility and Understanding:

   • Principle: Jesus’ healing on the Sabbath shows that flexibility and understanding are necessary when applying Sabbath laws. Strict rules should not take precedence over human welfare.

   • Modern Application: We should be flexible and understanding of different needs and circumstances. This means not being dogmatic about certain rules but focusing on the spirit of the law: love, mercy, and human welfare.

4. Celebration of Creation and Relationship with God:

   • Principle: The Sabbath offers an opportunity to celebrate creation and deepen our relationship with God. It is a time to pause and be thankful.

   • Modern Application: Use the rest day to nurture your relationship with God. This can be through prayer, Bible reading, attending worship services, or simply being grateful and appreciating the beauty of creation.

5. Community and Connection:

   • Principle: The Sabbath is also a time for community and connection with others. Jesus often spent the Sabbath in fellowship with his disciples and others.

   • Modern Application: Nurture your relationships with family, friends, and community. This could mean sharing meals, having conversations, or participating in communal activities.

Challenges and Solutions in Modern Times

1. Hectic Life and Constant Reachability:

   • Challenge: In modern society, we are often constantly reachable and have hectic lives, making it difficult to observe a day of rest.

   • Solution: Set conscious boundaries and create rituals that help you switch off. Plan times without digital devices and commitments to fully relax.

2. Work and Economic Pressures:

   • Challenge: Many people have jobs that don’t allow for regular days off or require shift work.

   • Solution: Find flexible ways to integrate rest times into your weekly schedule. If a specific day isn’t possible, try to incorporate smaller breaks and rest periods into your daily routine.

3. Social Pressure and Expectations:

   • Challenge: Social pressure and expectations can make it difficult to observe the Sabbath or rest days.

   • Solution: Stand by your convictions and communicate openly with your environment about the importance of rest and recovery. Find like-minded people who share similar values and support each other.

By applying these principles and responding flexibly to modern challenges, we can preserve and deepen the significance of the Sabbath in our lives. The Sabbath should be a time of renewal, compassion, and community, helping us grow in our relationship with God and others.

The story of the healing of the man with the withered hand in Mark 3:1–6 illustrates Jesus’ teaching that the Sabbath was made for man and not man for the Sabbath. This episode offers deep insights into the purpose of the Sabbath and how we can apply these principles to our daily lives and faith.

Important Lessons from Mark 3:1–6:

1. Humanity and Mercy over Ritualism:

   • Principle: Jesus shows that humanity and mercy should take precedence. Human needs are more important than strict religious rules.

   • Application Today: In our daily lives, we should strive to help others and do good, especially on days of rest. This could mean spending time with family and friends, engaging in volunteer work, or supporting someone in need.

2. Doing Good and Saving Lives:

   • Principle: The Sabbath should be a day when we actively do good and promote the welfare of others. Jesus makes it clear that the true purpose of the Sabbath is to save and heal lives.

   • Application Today: Use rest days to make positive changes, whether through small acts of kindness, supporting charitable projects, or nurturing relationships.

3. Flexibility and Understanding:

   • Principle: Jesus’ healing on the Sabbath shows that flexibility and understanding are necessary when applying Sabbath laws. Strict rules should not take precedence over human welfare.

   • Application Today: We should be flexible and understanding when it comes to observing traditions. This means focusing on the spirit of the law: love, mercy, and human welfare.

4. Hypocrisy of the Religious Leaders:

   • Principle: The religious leaders were more interested in catching and punishing Jesus than in promoting good. Their hypocrisy and moral failure show that they did not understand the true spirit of the Sabbath.

   • Application Today: Our faith should be sincere and authentic. We should ensure that our religious practices truly promote compassion and justice and do not lead to hypocrisy.

5. The Sabbath as a Gift:

   • Principle: Jesus emphasizes that the Sabbath was made for man—as a gift from God to provide rest, renewal, and opportunities for good deeds.

   • Application Today: Use the rest day to refresh and regenerate. Activities such as walking in nature, reading, or meditating can help refresh our bodies and minds.

Challenges and Solutions in Modern Times:

1. Hectic Life and Constant Reachability:

   • Challenge: In modern society, we are often constantly reachable and lead hectic lives, making it difficult to observe a day of rest.

   • Solution: Set conscious boundaries and create rituals that help you switch off. Plan times without digital devices and commitments to fully relax.

2. Work and Economic Pressures:

   • Challenge: Many people have jobs that don’t allow for regular days off or require shift work.

   • Solution: Find flexible ways to integrate rest times into your weekly schedule. If a specific day isn’t possible, try to incorporate smaller breaks and rest periods into your daily routine.

3. Social Pressure and Expectations:

   • Challenge: Social pressure and expectations can make it difficult to observe the Sabbath or rest days.

   • Solution: Stand by your convictions and communicate openly with your environment about the importance of rest and recovery. Find like-minded people who share similar values and support each other.

By applying these principles and responding flexibly to modern challenges, we can preserve and deepen the significance of the Sabbath in our lives. The Sabbath should be a time of renewal, compassion, and community, helping us grow in our relationship with God and others.

The Sabbath was made for man—a time to find rest, do good, and deepen our relationship with God and our fellow human beings.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-3-controversies-3-3-the-lord-of-the-sabbath-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/

July 16, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Zechariah Chapter 4

¹ And the angel that talked with me came again, and waked me, as a man that is wakened out of his sleep.

² And said unto me, What seest thou? And I said, I have looked, and behold a candlestick all of gold, with a bowl upon the top of it, and his seven lamps thereon, and seven pipes to the seven lamps, which are upon the top thereof:

³ And two olive trees by it, one upon the right side of the bowl, and the other upon the left side thereof.

⁴ So I answered and spake to the angel that talked with me, saying, What are these, my lord?

⁵ Then the angel that talked with me answered and said unto me, Knowest thou not what these be? And I said, No, my lord.

⁶ Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.

⁷ Who art thou, O great mountain? before Zerubbabel thou shalt become a plain: and he shall bring forth the headstone thereof with shoutings, crying, Grace, grace unto it.

⁸ Moreover the word of the Lord came unto me, saying,

⁹ The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house; his hands shall also finish it; and thou shalt know that the Lord of hosts hath sent me unto you.

¹⁰ For who hath despised the day of small things? for they shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel with those seven; they are the eyes of the Lord, which run to and fro through the whole earth.

¹¹ Then answered I, and said unto him, What are these two olive trees upon the right side of the candlestick and upon the left side thereof?

¹² And I answered again, and said unto him, What be these two olive branches which through the two golden pipes empty the golden oil out of themselves?

¹³ And he answered me and said, Knowest thou not what these be? And I said, No, my lord.

¹⁴ Then said he, These are the two anointed ones, that stand by the Lord of the whole earth.

King James Version. Public Domain

Commentary

The Fifth Vision: The Golden Lampstand and the Two Olive Trees

Verses 1-2: Awakening and Vision
The angel who spoke with Zechariah returns and wakes him up as if waking someone from sleep. This scene indicates that the visions Zechariah receives are deeply spiritual and require special attention. Zechariah sees a golden lampstand with a bowl on top, seven lamps, and seven channels to each lamp. This vision strongly resembles the Menorah in the Temple, a symbol of God’s light and presence.

Verse 3: The Two Olive Trees
Beside the lampstand stand two olive trees, one on the right and one on the left of the bowl. These olive trees symbolize a continuous supply of oil that fuels the lamp’s light. This points to an inexhaustible source of divine grace and power that is always available.

Verses 4-5: Zechariah’s Question and the Angel’s Response
Zechariah, confused by the vision, asks the angel about its meaning. The angel responds rhetorically to sharpen Zechariah’s understanding and prompt him to reflect.

Promise Concerning Zerubbabel

Verse 6: The Central Message
The angel reveals the central message of the vision: “Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord Almighty.” These words emphasize that the rebuilding of the Temple and the fulfillment of God’s plans will be achieved not by human efforts but by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Verse 7: The Great Mountain and the Plain
The great mountain that must become a plain before Zerubbabel symbolizes all obstacles to the Temple’s reconstruction. By God’s Spirit, these obstacles will be removed, and Zerubbabel will lay the Temple’s foundation, bringing joy and blessing.

Verses 8-9: The Lord’s Assurance
The Lord assures that Zerubbabel, who laid the Temple’s foundation, will also complete it. This assurance shows that God’s plans will be successfully implemented despite difficulties and that He Himself directs these works.

Verse 10: Joy in New Beginnings
It is emphasized that no one should despise the “day of small things,” as the Temple’s reconstruction begins in small steps. The seven eyes of the Lord, which range throughout the earth, symbolize God’s all-seeing providence and His involvement in every detail of this project.

Interpretation of the Fifth Vision

Verses 11-12: Meaning of the Two Olive Trees
Zechariah again asks about the meaning of the two olive trees and their branches, which pour out golden oil into the bowls. These trees and their branches represent the uninterrupted supply of divine grace and power necessary for fulfilling God’s work.

Verses 13-14: The Two Anointed Ones
The angel finally explains that the two olive trees are the two anointed ones who stand by the Lord of all the earth. Traditionally, these are interpreted as Zerubbabel, the political leader, and Joshua, the high priest. They represent the spiritual and secular leadership anointed and empowered by God’s Spirit.

Summary
Zechariah Chapter 4 emphasizes the power of the Holy Spirit in fulfilling God’s plans. The golden lampstand and the two olive trees symbolize God’s inexhaustible grace and power, enabling Zerubbabel and Joshua to rebuild the Temple. The message is clear: God’s work is accomplished not by human strength but by His Spirit. This vision encourages the Israelites to remain confident despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles, as God Himself guides and supports their efforts. The promise that Zerubbabel will complete the work serves as confirmation that God faithfully fulfills His plans and supports His people in accomplishing them.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 47: Ministry

This chapter is based on Matthew 17:9-21; Mark 9:9-29; Luke 9:37-45.

Read online here

 

Commentary

Jesus had spent the whole night with his disciples on the mountain. As morning broke, they descended into the plain. The disciples were silently reverent, deeply impressed by the events of the night. The place where they had experienced the heavenly light and Jesus’ glory seemed holy to them. But down below, the people were waiting for them, longing for Jesus.

At the foot of the mountain, a crowd had gathered around the disciples who had stayed behind. No one knew where Jesus was. As he approached, he commanded the disciples to remain silent about what had happened until he had risen from the dead. They were to keep this revelation in their hearts to avoid the ridicule and contempt of the people. Even the other disciples were to learn of it later, as they could not yet understand the event.

When Jesus appeared, many ran joyfully to him, but he immediately noticed the embarrassment and unease in the crowd. His disciples were also downcast. During his absence, a father had brought his son, plagued by an evil spirit, to them, but the disciples had been unable to heal him. Although Jesus had given them power over unclean spirits, they had failed this time, which gave the scribes a reason to mock and portray them as frauds. The mood in the crowd turned against the disciples.

When Jesus appeared, the situation changed abruptly. His presence brought calm and reverence. He went directly to the possessed boy and asked what the people were arguing about. The boy’s father recounted his futile efforts to find help. Jesus, saddened by the unbelief, commanded that the boy be brought to him.

As the boy was brought before Jesus, the spirit threw him to the ground. At that moment, the Lord of life and the prince of darkness faced each other once again. Jesus allowed the evil spirit to show its power to make the subsequent deliverance all the more evident. The father, desperate over his son’s suffering, pleaded with Jesus for help and was reminded of his doubts. Jesus explained that everything is possible for one who believes. The father exclaimed, “I believe; help my unbelief!”

With a command, Jesus drove out the spirit. The boy, initially motionless, was grasped by Jesus and lifted up. He was completely healed, and father and son praised God. The crowd was amazed and reverent, while the scribes withdrew in shame.

Jesus’ power was not limited, and he demonstrated that faith makes all things possible. Faith connects us with heaven and gives us the strength to overcome the powers of darkness. The disciples had failed because their faith was weak. Their doubts and jealousies had left them unprepared. Jesus explained to them that this kind of spirit could only be driven out by prayer and fasting. They needed to strengthen their faith and place their trust in God.

The mustard seed, small and insignificant, holds the potential for great growth. So it is with faith. If we nurture and cultivate our faith, it will grow and fill us with heavenly power. Nothing will be impossible for the one who believes.

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 48: Who Is the Greatest?

This chapter is based on Matthew 17:22-27; Matthew 18:1-20; Mark 9:30-50; Luke 9:46-48.

Read online here

 

Commentary

When Jesus returned to Capernaum, he did not visit the well-known places but withdrew with his disciples into a house. His goal was to instruct his disciples rather than minister to the masses.

During their journey through Galilee, Jesus had tried to prepare his disciples for the upcoming events. He spoke again of his death and resurrection and added that he would be betrayed. The disciples did not understand him and were more concerned with arguments about who would be the greatest in the coming kingdom. They tried to hide these discussions from Jesus.

After they reached Capernaum, the tax collector asked Peter if Jesus paid the temple tax. This tax was an annual payment for the upkeep of the temple. Eager to defend his master’s honor, Peter answered without consulting Jesus that he would pay the tax.

Jesus used this opportunity to teach Peter and the other disciples. He asked Peter whether the kings of the earth collected taxes from their own children or from strangers. Peter replied, “From strangers.” Jesus then explained that the children are exempt. This meant that as the Son of God, Jesus was not obligated to pay the temple tax. Nevertheless, he instructed Peter to obtain the amount through a miracle to avoid causing offense.

Shortly after their arrival in Capernaum, Jesus asked the disciples what they had been discussing on the way. In light of his presence and question, they remained silent, ashamed, as they had been arguing about their rank. Jesus explained to them that whoever wants to be the greatest must be the last and the servant of all.

To illustrate his teaching, Jesus placed a small child among them and said, “Unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” He emphasized the importance of simplicity, self-forgetfulness, and trusting love.

Jesus pointed out that true greatness does not lie in earthly dignity or display of power. In his kingdom, the rich, the poor, the learned, and the unlearned are united and dependent on him. He explained that a sincere and repentant heart is precious in God’s eyes.

An incident prompted John to ask Jesus if they had acted correctly when they forbade a man from casting out demons in Jesus’ name. Jesus replied that they should not have forbidden him, for no one who performs a miracle in his name can soon afterward speak evil of him. Jesus emphasized the importance of compassion and openness towards all who work in his name.

Jesus also spoke about the serious responsibility of not causing others to sin. He said it was better to mutilate oneself than to commit a sin that could lead to death. He emphasized that every believer has a responsibility towards the weak.

Jesus explained to the disciples the steps to take when a brother sins. They should first rebuke him privately, then with one or two witnesses, and finally involve the congregation if he does not listen. If the sinner refuses all these steps, he should be treated as a Gentile and a tax collector but still with compassion.

Jesus assured the disciples that their actions on earth would have heavenly consequences. He promised his presence and support wherever two or three gather in his name and agree in prayer.

Jesus’ teachings emphasize the importance of humility, compassion, and unity in faith. He showed the disciples that true greatness lies in serving others and in devotion to God’s will. His example and words should inspire them to represent his kingdom on earth through love and selfless service.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/16-07-2024-zechariah-chapter-4-believe-his-prophets/