And God Rested

Genesis 2:1-3 | Sermon Resources | 21 May 2023

Summary

In the sermon this week Pastor Billy comes to the 7th and final day of creation where God rests from all his work. We will consider how the establishment of the sabbath is a day of rest, restoration, and ultimately reorientation for us.

Discussion Questions

  1. Do you tend to view the Sabbath as more of a duty to be observed or a delight to be enjoyed? How so?
  2. In the sermon Pastor Billy made the case that day 7 (and not day 6) is the climax of creation. Do you agree? Why or why not? What are the implications of day 7 being the climax of creation?
  3. Observing the Sabbath can be a form of resistance. When we take time to rest on Sunday, we resist the idea that our work defines who we are. When we take time to rest, we resist the temptation to extend ourselves beyond our God-given limits. 
    • Discuss this statement. 
    • In what way does it ring true in your life?
    • Are there other things we fight against as we observe the Sabbath?
  4. Why do you think God rested on day 7? Was he tired? Was he lazy? If not, why did he rest? What does this tell us about the purpose of the sabbath for us?
  5. In the sermon Pastor Billy referred to the Greek myth of Sisyphus. Have someone briefly explain the myth or take time to look it up
    • In what ways can you personally relate to Sisyphus’ plight?
    • What “rocks” do you feel like you are constantly pushing up a hill?
    • In what way does the Sabbath offer a true and lasting response to Sisyphus’ plight?
  6. Christians no longer celebrate the Sabbath on Saturday (day 7) but on Sunday (day 1). What new meaning does Jesus’ resurrection give the Sabbath?
  7. What specific Sabbath practices would you like to begin to implement in your life? What obstacles might you need to address along the way? 
  8. What family practices of the Sabbath would you like to implement?  
  9. How can you keep the Sabbath as a day of delight rather than a day of drudgery?
  10. What is one thing you will NOT do as a result of studying this passage?