We skip over the detailed description of the Tabernacle, priestly rituals and vestments, and related matters. They are a grand archaeological resource, helping us envision things, but not of any great essence in understanding the implications of Biblical Law as a whole.
To some degree, we might almost say the same thing about the Sabbath Observance. However, the symbolism here is more deeply woven into the very fabric of Creation itself. But before we dig into that, let us review critical statements Paul made regarding how we translate the Sabbath Law into the service of Christ:
So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or sabbaths, which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ. (Colossians 2:16-17)
The whole chapter there is Paul warning against legalism, using the Law as a club to make others miserable. There is no virtue in that. He also warns against trusting in logic and reason, but emphasizes trusting your personal convictions.
One person esteems one day above another; another esteems every day alike. Let each be fully convinced in his own mind. (Romans 14:5)
Same story, but in more detail, Paul obliterates the legalistic position regarding Sabbath observance and other holy days, along with Kosher and similar matters. He uses the Greek word nous, translated as “mind,” but in this context meaning something akin to a sure knowledge of your own convictions.
Finally, in Hebrews 3-4, the author argues that the whole point behind the Sabbath was to symbolize the rest God promised, in that Sabbath is from the Hebrew root for “rest.” God created all things in six days and rested on the seventh, establishing the pattern for us. Israel never actually got to that rest, so the Son fulfilled the meaning of the Law for them, and for us. If we follow Him with a commitment from the heart, we cannot fail to enter God’s rest.
This is how we understand this passage in Exodus 31. It’s a divine privilege to take off one day in seven and still be assured that everything will be fine. Israel could give that day back to God and still prosper. They could devote that day to contemplation and renewal of their personal commitment to Jehovah as Lord. Meanwhile, they could bless the Lord by giving everyone else a break by making no material demands on them. Slow down and take care of your own personal needs that day.
The whole point of this passage is to emphasize that Israel must take this command very seriously. It’s a symbol of the Covenant itself and the promises to future generations. This is a call to trust the Lord to keep His promises, letting faith overrule the human logic based on fear and distrust.
