Sermon idea for the Sabbath of February 15, 2025.
Text:Luke 6:1–11 (NKJV): 6 Now it happened on the second Sabbath after the first that He went through the grainfields. And His disciples plucked the heads of grain and ate them, rubbing them in their hands. 2 And some of the Pharisees said to them, “Why are you doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath?” 3 But Jesus answering them said, “Have you not even read this, what David did when he was hungry, he and those who were with him: 4 how he went into the house of God, took and ate the showbread, and also gave some to those with him, which is not lawful for any but the priests to eat?” 5 And He said to them, “The Son of Man is also Lord of the Sabbath.” 6 Now it happened on another Sabbath, also, that He entered the synagogue and taught. And a man was there whose right hand was withered. 7 So the scribes and Pharisees watched Him closely, whether He would heal on the Sabbath, that they might find an accusation against Him. 8 But He knew their thoughts, and said to the man who had the withered hand, “Arise and stand here.” And he arose and stood. 9 Then Jesus said to them, “I will ask you one thing: Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do evil, to save life or to destroy?” 10 And when He had looked around at them all, He said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” And he did so, and his hand was restored as whole as the other. 11 But they were filled with rage, and discussed with one another what they might do to Jesus.
- Introduction Today, we explore Luke 6:1-11, focusing on Jesus’ teachings about the Sabbath within Seventh-day Adventist faith. The Sabbath is God’s gift, meant for rest, rejuvenation, and blessing, yet often misunderstood. Jesus confronts misconceptions about the Sabbath, revealing its true purpose as a time for blessing, not burden.
- Background and Context of Luke 6:1-11 Understanding Luke 6:1-11 requires historical context. During Jesus’ ministry in Galilee, the Sabbath, rooted in Genesis and Exodus, had become burdensome due to Pharisaical legalism—39 prohibited activities turned it into a day of strict observance rather than delight.
- Exegesis of the Passage - A. The Disciples Plucking Grain (Luke 6:1-5) Jesus defends His disciples against accusations of violating Sabbath laws by referencing David’s actions when in need. He highlights that human need and the spirit of the law take precedence. - B. Healing on the Sabbath (Luke 6:6-11) Jesus heals a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath, illustrating that doing good is central to its observance, challenging rigid interpretations.
- Key Themes and Teachings - The Sabbath is meant for human benefit, as Jesus teaches that it’s a day for restoration and compassion. - Jesus asserts His authority as “Lord of the Sabbath,” able to interpret its true meaning. - Acts of mercy are not only permitted but encouraged.
- Ellen White’s Perspective on the Sabbath Ellen White aligns with Jesus’ teachings, emphasizing the Sabbath as a reminder of creation, a day of blessing, a time to do good, and a warning against legalism.
- Contemporary Application - Personal Application: Reframe understanding of the Sabbath as a gift, prioritising rest and worship. - Family Application: Use the Sabbath for family bonding, worship, and service.
- Conclusion Jesus, as Lord of the Sabbath, invites us to embrace it as a day of blessing. May it strengthen our relationships with God and others, become a delight as Ellen White describes, and reflect God’s love and compassion in our lives. May this understanding guide our Sabbath observance.
Original article by Willie and Elaine Oliver. Download the resource for more details.