Sabbath (Pt. 1): What is the Rhythm of Sabbath?

TO START: Today we began the first of five mini sermon series (spread throughout the year) that explore five rhythms we can engage in to cultivate a Spirit-filled and Spirit-led life as we help others come home to God.

As we covered in the Wells & Wineskins series, there are many ways and practices to connect with God. In this season, we’re focusing on five specific rhythms—tangible practices that can open us up to healing, transformation, and health in our relationship with God.

This week, we began exploring the first rhythm: sabbath.

At Round Rock Church of Christ, we define sabbath as a consistent time set aside each week to honor and delight in the goodness of God. In the midst of our busy, often exhausting lives, sabbath offers an opportunity to mark time differently and receive the goodness and love of God in ways the rest of our week doesn’t typically allow.

READ: Genesis 2:1-3

DISCUSS:

(1.) What’s the slowest or quietest time of your week?

(2.) After re-reading Genesis 2:3, consider why God the Father—who is inexhaustible—took time to rest after creating everything. If it wasn’t for recharging, what might the purpose of that rest be for God?

(3.) The word Sabbath means “to stop” and “to delight.” If you had more space in your week, who or what would you want to spend more time enjoying?

(4.) Have you ever tried setting aside time during your week to intentionally focus on delighting in God? How would you describe the difference between sabbath and simply taking a “day off”?

(5.) Read Hebrews 4:2–4. In what ways has Jesus provided rest in your life that no one else has?

SABBATH PRAYER EXERCISE: 

To close small group, we invite you to spend time having each person share either what they’re excited about or what they are most resistant about when it comes to practicing sabbath. Lastly, pray about those things together!