How does Luke 23:56 connect with Exodus 20:8-11 on Sabbath observance? Setting the Scene Luke concludes the burial narrative by highlighting one seemingly small action: the women who loved Jesus chose rest over activity. Their decision takes us straight back to the heart of God’s fourth commandment. Luke 23:56 — The Disciples’ Sabbath “Then they returned and prepared spices and perfumes. And on the Sabbath they rested according to the commandment.” • Timing: Friday evening preparations end right before sundown. • Choice: They delay the final act of devotion—anointing Jesus’ body—because the Sabbath has begun. • Authority: Luke explicitly says their rest was “according to the commandment,” pointing to the Ten Commandments as binding and authoritative. Exodus 20:8-11 — The Original Command “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God; on it you shall not do any work… For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but on the seventh day He rested and was refreshed.” • Pattern: Six days of work, one day of rest. • Purpose: A holy pause dedicated to the LORD. • Foundation: Rooted in God’s own creation rest (Genesis 2:1-3). Shared Themes and Direct Links • Obedience over urgency – Exodus commands rest even in busy seasons. – Luke’s women obey though their grief feels urgent. • Sanctity of time – Exodus sets a weekly “holy” boundary. – Luke shows that boundary still honored in the Gospel narrative. • Witness to others – Israel’s rest testifies to the Creator (Exodus 31:13). – The women’s rest testifies that Jesus’ disciples respected God’s law. • Anticipation of completion – Creation week ends with rest. – Redemption week (Passion Week) pauses with rest between cross and resurrection, hinting at a new creation (Hebrews 4:9-10). Implications for Our Understanding of the Sabbath • Continuity: The Gospel writers never portray Sabbath observance as outdated; it frames the crucifixion story itself. • Priorities: Even acts of love (anointing Jesus) wait while God’s command stands. • Rest as Faith: Trusting God enough to stop striving—even in crisis—reflects worshipful dependence (Isaiah 58:13; Mark 2:27). • Christ-Centered Fulfillment: The women rest, then discover resurrection dawn. True Sabbath rest ultimately points to the completed work of the risen Lord. |
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