How to Use This Commentary Matthew 12:1–21 marks a decisive turning point in Jesus’ ministry. Read it in two major movements: (1) Conflict over the Sabbath (12:1–14), (2) The identity of God’s chosen Servant (12:15–21). This passage reveals both growing rejection and breathtaking beauty. Jesus is declared Lord of the Sabbath—and revealed as the gentle... Continue Reading →
How to Use This Commentary John 5:17–47 contains one of the most direct claims Jesus ever made about Himself. Read it in three movements: (1) Jesus’ equality with the Father (5:17–29), (2) The promise of resurrection (5:24–29), (3) The witnesses that confirm His identity (5:30–47). This passage forces a decision. Jesus is not presented as... Continue Reading →
Why This Entry Matters Few phrases in the New Testament are as familiar—or as quietly debated—as “the first day of the week.” It appears in the resurrection narratives and in descriptions of early Christian gathering and giving. In recent years, this phrase has become a focal point in discussions about: Sabbath observance, Sunday worship, and... Continue Reading →
A Closer Look at The Scriptures (ISR) Explanatory Notes — “Sabbath (Seventh Day of the Week)” Why This Entry Matters Few topics create more tension between historic Christianity and Hebrew Roots–influenced teaching than the Sabbath. At stake are not merely questions of calendar preference, but deeper issues such as: covenant continuity and discontinuity the authority... Continue Reading →
A Closer Look at The Scriptures (ISR) Explanatory Notes — “Jesus” Why This Entry Matters No name in the New Testament is more central—or more sacred—than the name Jesus. It is inseparable from the gospel itself, from Christology, and from the church’s confession that “Jesus is Lord.” In recent years, questions surrounding this name have... Continue Reading →
Why This Entry Matters Few phrases in the New Testament are as familiar—or as quietly debated—as “the first day of the week.” It appears in the resurrection narratives and in descriptions of early Christian gathering and giving. In recent years, this phrase has become a focal point in discussions about: Sabbath observance, Sunday worship, and... Continue Reading →
Home › Foundations › Sabbath & Rest › Why God Points to Creation in Exodus 20 Christians often hear the claim: “The Sabbath is a creation mandate for all people because God rested on the seventh day.” And then a sincere follow-up question naturally comes: If the Sabbath isn’t a universal creation command, why does... Continue Reading →
The Feasts of the Bible, Jesus, and the Church Today Movement C: The Church Today The Sabbath, the New Covenant, and the Rest Found in Christ Why Wouldn’t You Want to Keep the Sabbath? A thoughtful, pastoral response for Christians who want to honor God without losing gospel freedom. How to use this post: This... Continue Reading →
The apostle Paul emphasizes in Colossians 2:16-17 that believers should not be judged on dietary laws or Sabbath observance, as these are merely shadows of what Christ offers. The early church, including Gentile believers, did not enforce Sabbath-keeping, indicating spiritual freedom in choosing worship days without judgment from others.