Bible Study: Episode IV

On Sept 2nd we explored several scriptures that are connected within the scope of Episode IV of the second season of The Chosen. The episode is called "The Perfect Opportunity" — below is a quick recap of the episode, before we dive into the scriptures.

About Episode IV - We’re introduced to Simon the Zealot and the Feast of the Tabernacles. The disciples travel to outside of Jerusalem for the feast. They face some unexpected opposition- like building anger and tension against Jesus. Jesus performs a miracle. The tension between Simon and Matthew isn’t resolved just yet, and the others, including John, agree that what Matthew did while working for the Romans was wrong. The conflict will likely continue to affect the group’s dynamic going further. The confusion of Jesus’ followers will also be further explored as they grapple with the concept of faith in their own way. It’s really interesting to see the Zealots, Pharisees, and Disciples together- especially when they’re discussing different interpretations of scripture.

What you see below are a mix between my Bible Study notes, and some of the reflections from the participants. We still have 4 episodes to watch and many excellent scriptures to explore, I pray that you consider joining us one of these Tuesdays at 2 PM in the Gathering place...

Scriptures to Explore

Exodus 20:8-11; Psalm 69; Zephaniah 3:17-20; Zechariah 8:20-23; Zechariah 14:16; John 5:1-30

Introduction of our Bible Study

When we think about the Sabbath, our minds often go to the idea of taking a day off from work. But the biblical concept of Sabbath goes much deeper than simply doing nothing. It's about finding purpose, connection, and spiritual renewal.

What is the True Purpose of Sabbath?

In Exodus 20:8-11, God commands us to "Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy." But notice that the text doesn't just say to rest - it specifically states that the seventh day is "a Sabbath day of rest dedicated to the Lord your God."

The key phrase here is "dedicated to the Lord." Sabbath isn't merely about recharging so we can work more efficiently later. Its primary purpose is to center ourselves in relationship with God. This explains why God included everyone in the Sabbath command - not just the heads of households, but also children, servants, foreigners, and even animals. If Sabbath were only about productivity, it wouldn't need to extend to everyone. But because it's about connection with God, everyone deserves this sacred time.

What Does Sabbath Look Like in Real Life?

Sabbath looks different for each person. For some, it might be playing golf or gardening. For others, it could be traveling or playing cards. The important thing isn't what you do or don't do - it's whether the activity helps you connect with God and experience His love.

For example, playing softball can be Sabbath for someone because it allows them to step away from their regular roles and responsibilities, to encounter themselves authentically, and to experience joy and community. Even activities that might seem active or energetic can be restful if they help you center yourself in God's presence. A mother playing with her children at the pool isn't physically resting, but she might be spiritually renewed through that connection and joy.

How Did Jesus Understand the Sabbath?

Jesus understood Sabbath completely differently than the religious leaders of His time. While they had created rigid rules about what constituted "work," Jesus focused on the heart of Sabbath - connection with God and doing good. In John 5, we see Jesus healing a man on the Sabbath. When questioned about this "work," Jesus explains that He is simply doing what He sees the Father doing. This reveals something profound about Sabbath - it's not about following rules but about aligning ourselves with God's heart and activity.

Why Do We Struggle with the Concept of Sabbath?

As humans, we have a tendency to put boundaries where God gives freedom. We like to control and define things precisely - which is why debates about whether Sabbath should be Saturday or Sunday continue to this day. The religious leaders in Jesus' time had turned Sabbath into a burden through their many rules. Similarly, some Christian communities created "blue laws" that forced stores to close on Sundays - but this missed the point if people weren't using that time to connect with God. True Sabbath isn't about rigid adherence to rules but about dedicating time to God, feeling His love, and finding spiritual renewal.

How Does Sabbath Help Us Deal with Life's Burdens?

Life is full of challenges, pain, and sometimes trauma. Psalm 69 gives us language to express our lament: "I am suffering and in pain. Rescue me, O God, by your saving power."

Sabbath provides space for us to process these difficulties in God's presence. It's a time when we can acknowledge our pain while also receiving God's comfort and perspective.

When we practice true Sabbath, we "stumble upward" - we may not be perfect in our faith journey, but we're moving in the right direction, learning and growing through our failures rather than being defined by them.

How Does Sabbath Connect to God's Bigger Plan?

Zephaniah 3:17-20 and Zechariah 8:20-23 show us that God's ultimate plan is to gather all people to Himself. Even those who were once enemies will eventually be welcomed to experience God's grace. This connects to Sabbath because both reveal God's heart for inclusion and blessing. Just as Sabbath was meant for everyone - including servants and foreigners - God's ultimate blessing is extended to all nations. Jesus didn't contradict the Old Testament understanding of Sabbath; He fulfilled it by demonstrating its true purpose - connection with God that leads to blessing others.

Life Application

This week, consider how you might practice true Sabbath in your life:

1. Identify activities that help you connect with God and bring you spiritual renewal. These might be different from what others find restful.

2. Set aside dedicated time for these activities, viewing them not just as leisure but as sacred opportunities to experience God's presence.

3. Notice how your understanding of rest impacts how you treat others. Are you extending the gift of rest to everyone in your sphere of influence?

4. When facing difficulties, use your Sabbath time to bring your laments to God while also receiving His perspective and comfort.

Ask yourself:

• What activities help me truly connect with God?

• Am I approaching Sabbath as a rule to follow or as an opportunity for relationship?

• How might my practice of Sabbath become a blessing to others around me?

• In what ways am I trying to control or define Sabbath rather than embracing the freedom God offers?

Remember, Sabbath isn't about doing nothing - it's about dedicating time to experience God's love and recharge your spirit so you can continue to enhance the kingdom of God in your daily life.