Kingdom Ethics and the Ten Commandments Today
Relevance for the Church, Culture Wars, Law vs. Grace, and Christian Discipleship
This chapter focuses on the Third Commandment — “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exod. 20:8–11) — and its application for faith, work, and rest in a modern, 24/7 society.
1. Introduction
The Third Commandment calls God’s people to observe a rhythm of work and rest:
“Remember the Sabbath day, and keep it holy. Six days you shall labour and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God.”
— Exodus 20:8–10 (NRSV)
In a contemporary culture dominated by constant work, digital connectivity, and productivity pressures, observing the Sabbath is both countercultural and essential for Kingdom living. It shapes faith, fosters spiritual renewal, and cultivates justice and mercy.
2. Historical and Cultural Context
2.1. Ancient Israel
The Sabbath was instituted as:
- Rest from labour (Exod. 20:9–10)
- A sign of covenant relationship (Exod. 31:13)
- A memorial of God’s creative work (Gen. 2:2–3)
It was non-negotiable; violation could lead to severe consequences (Exod. 31:14). The Sabbath reminded Israel that life and work are under God’s authority, not human mastery.
2.2. Sabbath as Social Justice
The Sabbath was also communal:
- Servants and animals rested (Exod. 20:10)
- Slaves and the poor benefited from God’s rhythm (Deut. 5:14)
Thus, Sabbath observance reflects both faithfulness to God and care for the vulnerable.
3. Jesus and the Sabbath
Jesus challenged legalistic interpretations while affirming the Sabbath’s purpose:
“The Sabbath was made for humankind, and not humankind for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is lord even of the Sabbath.”
— Mark 2:27–28
Kingdom ethics prioritise:
- Mercy over rigid rule-keeping (Matt. 12:7)
- Spiritual renewal over mere ritual
- Alignment with God’s heart in work and rest
4. The Spirit and Sabbath Observance
The Spirit enables believers to embrace rest as a divine gift rather than a burden:
- Empowering trust in God’s provision (Matt. 6:31–33)
- Teaching rhythms of work and prayer (Acts 13:14; 16:13)
- Restoring mental, physical, and spiritual health (Heb. 4:9–11)
The Sabbath becomes a Spirit-led practice, freeing believers from overwork and anxiety.
5. Sabbath in a 24/7 Culture
5.1. Modern Work Pressures
In contemporary society:
- Technology and remote work blur boundaries
- Productivity and performance are idolised
- Constant engagement diminishes reflection and worship
5.2. Countercultural Practices
Kingdom ethics encourage:
- Setting aside regular, intentional rest
- Prioritising worship, prayer, and fellowship
- Practising digital Sabbath: times of disconnection and reflection
6. Practical Kingdom Ethics of Rest
6.1. Personal Practices
- Dedicate a day or period weekly to God
- Cease unnecessary work and digital activity
- Engage in prayer, reading Scripture, and reflection
6.2. Corporate Practices
- Churches encourage sabbatical rhythms for leaders
- Community spaces support rest for all members
- Advocate for fair work-life balance in society
6.3. Rest and Justice
Observing Sabbath is a moral practice:
- Protecting workers’ rights
- Ensuring rest for the vulnerable
- Modeling trust in God over economic demands
7. Conclusion
The Third Commandment remains relevant in the modern world. Observing Sabbath rest is not merely a ritual but a Kingdom ethic:
- It honours God’s creative and redemptive work
- It nurtures spiritual, mental, and social wellbeing
- It challenges cultural idols of productivity, wealth, and self-reliance
“There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their own work, just as God did from his.”
— Hebrews 4:9–10
Kingdom discipleship calls for intentional rhythms of work, rest, and worship, embodying trust in God’s provision and care.