Sabbath

The observance of a day of rest is part of the divine law, enunciated in the Old Testament in the fourth commandment and in the New Testament by the example and teaching of Jesus. In its recognition of Sunday as the Lord's Day (as distinct from the Jewish Sabbath), The Salvation Army aligns itself with the custom of the early church in joyful commemoration of Christ's resurrection. Sunday is the day on which the Salvationist traditionally has enjoyed an opportunity for corporate worship, reflection, fellowship in community and the proclamation of the gospel.

"The Sabbath was made for people, not people for the Sabbath," said Jesus (Mark 2:27 NW). On this day we cease from our work to rest in God. It is a time set aside to dwell in His presence. It is a time for freedom from the busyness of life. It is a time to remember that we are precious in His sight for who we are, not for what we accomplish. Thus, we gain a fresh perspective and are enabled to begin anew our service to Him.

We are not to be bound by legalistic practices. Those engaged in leading Sunday ministries and others for whom work on Sunday is essential are encouraged to set aside other "Sabbath time."

As Christians, we stand in contrast to the values of the world and witness to another way in our Sunday observance and in keeping the Sabbath.