Should we keep the Sabbath? (Exodus 20:8 vs. Colossians 2:16)

Definition and Context

The term “Sabbath” (Hebrew: שַׁבָּת, shabbat) refers to the day of rest in the Hebrew Scriptures, occurring on the seventh day of the week. Exodus 20:8 states, “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.” Yet Colossians 2:16 advises, “Therefore let no one judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a feast, a New Moon, or a Sabbath.” These two verses are often presented as being in tension. A thorough examination involves looking at how the Sabbath was established, how it functioned under the Mosaic Covenant, what changed with Christ’s work, and how believers today might apply this teaching.

The Sabbath in the Old Testament

The Sabbath was established at Creation (Genesis 2:2–3) as a day sanctified by God. Later, under the Mosaic Law, it became one of the central commandments (Exodus 20:8–11). It was a means for Israel to rest and remember God’s work in creation and deliverance (Deuteronomy 5:15).

In the life of ancient Israel, Sabbath observance served as a sign of the covenant (Exodus 31:16–17). Historical findings, including the Dead Sea Scrolls, demonstrate how various Jewish communities (such as Qumran) meticulously adhered to the Sabbath. The practice was so important that violations carried severe consequences (Exodus 31:14). This covenant sign extended into Israel’s structure of festivals, land sabbaths, and Jubilee cycles, all reflecting a pattern of rest and remembrance.

The Sabbath in the Gospels

In the New Testament, Jesus affirmed the goodness of the Sabbath but challenged legalistic interpretations. Mark 2:27 records Jesus saying, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.” He emphasized that the Sabbath pointed to human flourishing, not empty rule-keeping. Jesus also declared Himself “Lord even of the Sabbath” (Mark 2:28), revealing His authority over that day. These accounts highlight that the Sabbath’s deeper intent was mercy and remembrance of God, rather than adherence to rigid, man-made traditions (see also Matthew 12:10–12).

Colossians 2:16 and Freedom in Christ

The apostle Paul’s statement in Colossians 2:16—“Therefore let no one judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a feast, a New Moon, or a Sabbath”—occurs in a context addressing Christians influenced by teachers who insisted on observing particular Jewish regulations. Paul clarifies that these ceremonial laws were “a shadow of the things to come,” whereas “the body that casts it belongs to Christ” (Colossians 2:17).

This implies that ritual observances—once crucial to Israel under the Mosaic system—find their ultimate fulfillment in Christ’s atoning work, resurrection, and gift of new life. Paul underscores freedom in Christ: believers are no longer bound to uphold these regulations as a condition of salvation or spiritual acceptability. Instead, they live by faith in Jesus, who has already met all the righteous requirements of the Law (Romans 10:4).

Early Church Practice

Following the resurrection, the early Christians emerged from a predominantly Jewish background, and many continued observing the seventh-day Sabbath alongside weekly gatherings on the first day of the week (Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:2). Archaeological evidence and early Christian writings (e.g., the Didache, some patristic letters) show early believers meeting on the “Lord’s Day” to commemorate Christ’s resurrection. Over time, first-day worship became increasingly common, symbolizing the new life ushered in by the risen Christ. However, some early Jewish believers still observed the Sabbath as part of their cultural heritage without regarding it as compulsory for Gentile converts (Acts 15:19–21).

Purpose and Fulfillment

Under the New Covenant, the moral aspect of remembering God’s sovereignty remains, but ritual obligations specific to Israel’s covenant do not bind believers. Hebrews 4:9–10 describes a greater “Sabbath rest” in Christ. This rest is characterized by ceasing from our works to rely entirely on His saving work, highlighting that the Sabbath’s ultimate purpose points to rest in the Messiah.

Practical Considerations Today

1. Honoring Rest and Worship

While believers are free from Old Testament ceremonial requirements, voluntary rest and corporate worship remain edifying practices. Rest can preserve health, prioritize spiritual reflection, and cultivate trust in God’s provision. Many choose Sunday for congregational worship, recalling Christ’s resurrection, yet the principle of “one person esteems one day above another, while another judges every day alike” (Romans 14:5–6) suggests liberty in how we honor God with our time.

2. Guarding Against Legalism

When Sabbath observance or any holy day becomes a point of judgment or pride (Colossians 2:16–17), the focus shifts away from Christ. Scripture warns against any requirement or ritual that overshadows the central truth of salvation by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8–9). Observing a day must be an act of conviction and devotion, not an instrument to earn righteousness.

3. Spiritual Rhythm and Discipline

Setting aside regular, intentional time for worship and rest helps combat distractions and cultivates relational intimacy with God. Historical Christian communities and contemporary believers alike find that weekly rhythms, whether on Saturday or Sunday, promote spiritual growth and fellowship.

4. Cultural Sensitivities and Witness

In many cultures, rest days coincide with national holidays or common days off. Choosing a day to gather for worship and fellowship should align with local circumstances and unity among believers (1 Corinthians 9:19–23). By honoring one’s conscience and seeking peace with fellow Christians, believers demonstrate love as a powerful witness to the world.

Conclusion

Examining Exodus 20:8 and Colossians 2:16 reveals that the Old Testament Sabbath was a holy commandment for Israel, embodying rest, reflection on God’s goodness, and a sign of the Mosaic Covenant. In the New Testament context, believers are not judged by Sabbath observance; rather, all resting pictures our deeper rest and redemption found in Christ. The freedom offered through the New Covenant allows Christians to honor rest and worship consistent with their consciences. The unchanging principle is to give glory to God and trust in the sufficiency of Christ’s finished work.